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Pumpkin Soup with Spiced Croutons

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Soups
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Soup:
  • 2 cups pumpkin puree (fresh roasted or canned)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 3 cups vegetable or chicken stock
  • ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the Spiced Croutons:
  • 2 cups cubed day-old bread (French bread or sourdough works well)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Spiced Croutons : Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10–12 minutes, tossing halfway through, until golden and crisp. Set aside to cool.
  • Step 2: Sauté Aromatics : In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Step 3: Cook the Pumpkin Soup : Add pumpkin puree to the pot and stir to combine with onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and stir well. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–15 minutes to let flavors meld.
  • Step 4: Blend the Soup : Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a countertop blender. Stir in cream or coconut milk for extra richness and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Step 5: Serve : Ladle the soup into bowls. Top generously with spiced croutons. Optional: Drizzle with extra cream, olive oil, or a sprinkle of fresh thyme.