Brewing Pumpkin Beer: How Roasted Pumpkin Takes It to the Next Level

I just can’t decide what beer style to brew today. Oh, I know pumpkin!

Recipe for 5 gallons:

• 7 lbs 2-row American Pale Malt
• 2 lbs Aromatic Malt
• 2 lbs Munich Malt
• 2 lbs Victory Malt
• 1 Roasted pumpkin
• 1.00 oz Northern Brewer [8.50 %] – Boil 60.0 min
• 1.00 tsp Ginger Root (Boil 10.0 mins)
• 1.00 tsp Cinnamon Stick (Boil 10.0 mins)
• 1.00 tsp Nutmeg (Boil 10.0 mins)
• 1.0 pkg American Ale (Wyeast Labs #1056)

Pumpkin beer!

When it comes to deciding on a beer style to brew, the choices can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we will explore the process of brewing pumpkin beer, a flavorful and seasonal option.

From choosing when to add the pumpkin to the beer to preparing the pumpkin itself, we will delve into the steps involved in creating this unique brew. Join us as we uncover the secrets to brewing a delicious pumpkin beer that captures the essence of autumn.

Adding Pumpkin to the Mash:

One of the first decisions to make when brewing pumpkin beer is when to add the pumpkin. While it can be added at various stages, the brewer in this video decides to incorporate it directly into the mash.

By mashing the roasted pumpkin, the brewer aims to extract both the sugars and flavors from the pumpkin.

The pumpkin is mashed up and added to the grains in the mash, allowing for a thorough infusion of pumpkin essence.

Preparing the Pumpkin:

To prepare the pumpkin for brewing, the brewer starts by cutting it in half and removing the seeds and innards. The pumpkin is then sliced into thick pieces and placed on a baking sheet lined with foil.

Sprinkled with brown sugar, the pumpkin is roasted in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately two hours. The result is a fragrant and flavorful pumpkin ready to be incorporated into the beer.

Building the Beer:

To achieve the desired original gravity and alcohol by volume (ABV), the brewer combines pale two-row malt with three specialty malts: Munich, aromatic, and victory.

The specific gravity of the beer is adjusted to account for the sugars contributed by the pumpkin.

Bittering hops are added at the beginning of the boil, while spices such as ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and a cinnamon stick are introduced with ten minutes left in the boil. The beer is fermented using American ale yeast at a temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tasting the Pumpkin Beer:

After the brewing process is complete, the brewer and a friend sample the finished pumpkin beer. The beer has a lovely autumnal color and a noticeable aroma of spices.

Upon tasting, they find that the pumpkin flavor shines through without being overly sweet. The beer has a spicy kick that makes it a perfect accompaniment to a Thanksgiving meal or a cozy autumn evening.

Conclusion:

Brewing pumpkin beer offers a unique and flavorful experience for beer enthusiasts. By incorporating roasted pumpkin into the mash and adding spices during the boil, brewers can create a beer that captures the essence of autumn.

Whether you’re a fan of pumpkin beers or looking to try something new, brewing your own pumpkin beer can be a rewarding and delicious endeavor. So, next time you have an abundance of pumpkins, consider turning them into a delightful brew that will impress your friends and family. Cheers to the flavors of fall!

Frequently Asked Questions

How is pumpkin beer made?

Pumpkin beer is made by incorporating roasted pumpkin into the brewing process. The pumpkin can be added at various stages, such as during the mash, boil, or even in the fermentor.

The recipe provided in the article for 5 gallons includes ingredients like 2-row American Pale Malt, Aromatic Malt, Munich Malt, Victory Malt, roasted pumpkin, Northern Brewer hops, and spices like ginger root, cinnamon stick, and nutmeg.

When is the best time to add pumpkin to the beer?

The ideal time to add pumpkin to the beer can vary based on personal preference. Some brewers choose to add it during the mash, while others might add it during the boil.

How do you prepare the pumpkin for brewing?

To prepare the pumpkin for brewing, it should be cut in half and all the seeds and innards scooped out.

The hollowed-out pumpkin is then sliced into a couple of inches thick pieces, placed on a baking sheet with foil, sprinkled with brown sugar, and baked at 375 Fahrenheit for about two hours.

Once baked, the skin is removed, and the pumpkin is stored in the fridge if not used immediately.

What spices are commonly used in a pumpkin beer recipe?

Common spices used in a pumpkin beer recipe include ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and cinnamon sticks. These spices are typically added during the last 10 minutes of the boil to infuse the beer with their flavors.

How does the final pumpkin beer taste?

The final pumpkin beer has a distinct pumpkin flavor complemented by the spices added during brewing. It is reminiscent of a pumpkin pie but without the excessive sweetness.

The beer pairs well with Thanksgiving meals and offers a spicy kick without being overly sweet.