Making Your Own Puree Pumpkin puree is quite versatile. You can buy it canned, usually in the baking aisle, or you can make your own: Use a sugar pumpkin (also called pie pumpkins) Cut in half Remove the seeds Rub with oil Bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees F, or until the flesh easily pierces with a fork Scoop out with a spoon, add to a blender along with a splash of water, and puree until smooth When selecting fresh pumpkin, choose a pumpkin that’s uniform in color with no soft spots. It should be heavy for its size and have its stem intact. Fresh, whole pumpkin will last for weeks at room