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Creamy Roasted Apple Pumpkin Soup blends sweet spiced apples, savory pumpkin, herbs, cream & Parmesan for the ultimate cozy fall comfort dish.
Cozy, velvety, and full of fall flavor, this Creamy Roasted Apple Pumpkin Soup is the ultimate comfort dish for chilly nights. Sweet roasted apples are caramelized with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, then blended into a rich pumpkin base seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and fragrant herbs. Finished with heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan, this soup is luxuriously creamy with the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Dairy-free, Vegan, Gluten-free, Make Ahead, + Freezer option.
If you know me through the history of my recipes, then you know that soups are one of my ultimate favorite things to make AND eat! Seriously, soup is just one of those things that is so versatile and downright delicious. This Creamy Roasted Apple Pumpkin Soup in particular is one of my newest faves that I've recently created out of inspiration from my Apple Cheddar Sweet Potato Soup and my desire to add more pumpkin to my menu.
Made with simple pantry ingredients and wholesome pumpkin purée, it’s a one-pot recipe that pairs beautifully with crusty bread, grilled cheese, or a fresh fall salad. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday starter, this roasted apple pumpkin soup will warm you from the inside out. And if you're into anything pumpkin, you'll want to try this Pumpkin Chai Latte Bread, Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, Cajun Veggie Pumpkin Pizza, and Easy Pumpkin Pie Iced Latte.
This soup is ultra-creamy + packed with comfort, coziness, and all the satisfying indulgence you could want. The flavors + textures are incredible, especially when paired with a crispy grilled cheese—so good! It’s easy to make, full of wholesome ingredients, and comes together in just one pot with minimal prep time. And if you're vegan, don’t miss my Loaded Vegan Veggie Soup --- it's just packed with heartiness and nutrients.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Roasted Apple Pumpkin Soup
Cozy fall flavors: Roasted apples, pumpkin, and warm spices come together in every spoonful.
Sweet + savory balance: Apples add natural sweetness while herbs and Parmesan bring a rich, savory depth.
Ultra creamy texture: Heavy cream, pumpkin purée, and Parmesan make this soup velvety smooth.
Customizable: Easy to make dairy-free, vegan, or gluten-free with simple swaps.
Perfect for any occasion: Works as a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant holiday starter.
Make-ahead friendly: Flavors deepen overnight, making it ideal for meal prep.
Family-approved: Comforting, nourishing, and kid-friendly while still feeling gourmet.
How To Make Creamy Roasted Apple Pumpkin Soup
Once you've roasted the apples and blended them together with a bit of liquid, it's as easy as using just one pot for everything. Start by cooking your flour + seasonings, stock, heavy cream, and pumpkin puree in the same pot. Finally, stir in the cheesy goodness towards the end! Voila, you've got a delicious and easy meal ready to enjoy.
Ingredients
Honeycrisp, Gala, or Sweet Tango apples. Roasting these apples caramelizes their natural sugars and adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory pumpkin. You can also use Fuji or Pink Lady apples for a similar flavor, or pears for a softer, delicate twist.
Olive oil. Used for roasting and sautéing, it adds richness and helps the apples and aromatics caramelize beautifully. Avocado oil, coconut oil, or even butter can be substituted.
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. This trio gives the apples and soup a warm, spiced depth. You can also use pumpkin pie spice or chai spice blend for a shortcut.
Unsalted butter. Adds richness and a creamy texture to the soup base. For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter or additional olive oil.
Garlic. Freshly minced garlic deepens the flavor and pairs perfectly with roasted apples and pumpkin. Garlic powder works in a pinch, though fresh is best.
Vegetable stock. Creates a flavorful, plant-based base for the soup. Chicken stock can also be used for a heartier flavor. For added depth, try mushroom stock.
Raw honey or maple syrup. Brings out the natural sweetness of the roasted apples. Maple syrup keeps it vegan, while agave nectar is another plant-based substitute.
All-purpose flour. Helps thicken the soup for that creamy, velvety finish. For gluten-free, swap with cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or a gluten-free flour blend.
Sea salt + black pepper. Essential for balancing sweetness and enhancing savory notes. Pink Himalayan salt or kosher salt are great alternatives.
Smoked paprika. Adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of apples and pumpkin. Regular paprika or chipotle powder can also be used.
Garlic powder, oregano, basil, and thyme. This herb-and-spice blend infuses the soup with Tuscan-style savory depth. Italian seasoning is a great one-swap alternative.
Pumpkin purée. The star of the soup! Adds creaminess, earthiness, and that cozy pumpkin flavor. Sweet potato purée or butternut squash purée work as substitutes.
Heavy cream. Makes the soup velvety smooth and indulgent. For dairy-free options, use coconut cream, cashew cream, or oat cream.
Parmesan cheese. Adds a nutty, savory finish that makes this soup rich and flavorful. Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or vegan Parmesan are excellent substitutes.
SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS SOUP!
Here, I’ve curated a list of baking + cooking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite dishes, especially with this Creamy Roasted Apple Pumpkin Soup recipe. Everything from my fave dutch oven, wooden spoons, parchment paper, and more. SEE THEM HERE!
Tips for the Best Creamy Soup
Roast your produce: Roasting apples (and even pumpkin if you like) intensifies their natural sweetness and gives the soup a deeper, caramelized flavor.
Use a good stock: Vegetable or chicken stock adds savory depth. Always choose low-sodium so you can control the seasoning.
Blend until silky: Use an immersion blender for a smooth texture, or transfer to a high-powered blender for an extra velvety finish.
Add cream slowly: Stir in the cream off the heat or at a low simmer to prevent curdling and keep the soup silky.
Balance flavors: Sweet pumpkin and apples need savory herbs, salt, and spices like smoked paprika or thyme to round them out.
Don’t skip acidity: A splash of apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, or even extra maple syrup at the end helps balance richness with brightness.
Top it right: Garnish with Parmesan, croutons, toasted pumpkin seeds, or a swirl of cream for extra flavor and texture.
Make it ahead: Cream-based soups taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store in the fridge and reheat gently.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Creamy Soups
Adding cream too early. If you add heavy cream while the soup is boiling, it can split or curdle. Always stir it in at the end on low heat.
Skipping the roast. Not roasting the apples (or pumpkin) leaves the soup tasting flat. Roasting caramelizes the sugars and deepens flavor.
Using watery stock. Low-quality stock can make your soup bland. Always use a rich, flavorful base like homemade or organic stock.
Over-seasoning at the start. Herbs and spices intensify as the soup simmers. Add a little at first, then adjust just before serving.
Blending too soon. Hot soup can explode in a blender. Let it cool slightly or use an immersion blender right in the pot.
Making it too thick or too thin. If it’s too thick, add more stock to thin it out. If too thin, stir in a cornstarch slurry or simmer longer to reduce.
Forgetting balance. Pumpkin and apples are naturally sweet, so don’t forget savory herbs, sea salt, and a touch of acidity to balance flavors.
Not tasting as you go. Soups need layering of flavor. Taste throughout and adjust seasoning before serving.
Always garnish before serving—it not only adds flavor but also makes the soup look irresistible!
How to Make Your Own Pumpkin Puree
If you're thinking about making your own pumpkin puree instead of using a store-bought canned version, then you'll be happy to know that it is rather simple:
Step 1: Cut your pumpkins in half and scoop out the seeds. Be sure to save the seeds for another time because you can definitely use those!
Step 2: Feel free to cube the pumpkins into medium-large chunks and then place them unto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. NOTE: ensure that the skin of pumpkin are peeled off at this point.
Step 3: Always season your pumpkin pieces (pinch of salt and cinnamon in this case for the recipe) and lightly grease with olive oil until coated.
Step 4: Roast in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 40-45 minutes or until the edges are golden and they become super tender once tested with a fork or knife.
Step 5: Using a food processor or blender, puree your pumpkin along with water or veggie stock, until smooth. You can either use this immediately in whatever pumpkin recipe you'd like, store it in the freezer for later use.
Best Apples for Roasted Apple Pumpkin Soup
The type of apple you choose makes a big difference in flavor and sweetness. For this soup, you want apples that caramelize beautifully when roasted and balance the earthy pumpkin. Here are the best options:
Honeycrisp: Juicy, crisp, and naturally sweet with a touch of tartness. Perfect for adding brightness and depth to the soup.
Gala: Mildly sweet and floral, Gala apples add gentle sweetness without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
Sweet Tango: A cross between Honeycrisp and Zestar apples, these are both tart and sweet, which gives the soup a complex flavor.
Fuji: Extra sweet and firm, Fuji apples roast beautifully and bring a mellow, fruity flavor to the mix.
Pink Lady (Cripps Pink): Tart yet sweet, with a firm texture that holds up well during roasting. Adds a nice balance to creamy soups.
Golden Delicious: Milder in sweetness but soft and buttery when roasted, making them a cozy choice for soups.
Avoid very tart apples like Granny Smith for this recipe, since their acidity can overpower the delicate pumpkin and cream base. Stick to sweet or sweet-tart apples for the best balance.
Best Cheeses for Pumpkin Apple Soup
Cheese takes this cozy fall soup from delicious to irresistible, adding depth, creaminess, and savory balance to the natural sweetness of pumpkin and roasted apples. Here are the top choices:
Parmesan. Nutty, salty, and sharp, Parmesan melts beautifully and enhances the savory notes of the soup.
Pecorino Romano. A bolder, saltier alternative to Parmesan, perfect if you want a punchier flavor.
Gruyère. Smooth, creamy, and slightly nutty, Gruyère melts into the soup for a velvety finish.
Sharp Cheddar. Adds tang and richness that pairs well with pumpkin’s earthy sweetness.
Fontina. Mild, buttery, and creamy, Fontina gives the soup a luscious texture without overpowering other flavors.
Goat cheese. Creamy and tangy, it stirs in beautifully and adds a slightly tart contrast to the sweet apples.
Cream cheese. For an extra silky texture and a hint of tang, swirl in cream cheese toward the end of cooking.
Use freshly grated cheese whenever possible. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Best Toppings for Apple Pumpkin Soup
The right toppings add texture, flavor, and visual appeal to your soup. Whether you want something crunchy, cheesy, or fresh, here are the best options:
Crunchy Toppings
Toasted croutons: Buttery, golden, and perfect for soaking up creamy soup.
Roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds): Add nutty crunch and pair beautifully with pumpkin.
Toasted nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts give earthy flavor and extra bite.
Crispy bacon or pancetta: For a savory-salty crunch (skip for vegan).
Cheesy Toppings
Freshly grated Parmesan: Classic, nutty, and savory.
Gruyère or sharp cheddar: Melts into the soup for added creaminess.
Parmesan crisps: Crunchy and cheesy for a fun garnish.
Fresh + Flavorful Toppings
Fresh herbs: Thyme, parsley, or sage add a bright, fragrant finish.
Swirl of cream or cashew cream: Makes the soup extra velvety.
Cranberries or pomegranate seeds: A pop of tartness and color for a festive touch.
Chili flakes or hot honey: For a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
Mix and match! Try topping your soup with croutons + Parmesan + fresh thyme for a cozy, restaurant-quality finish.
Best Thickening Agents for Creamy Soups
A truly comforting pumpkin soup should be smooth, velvety, and just the right thickness. If your soup feels too thin, here are the best ways to thicken it without losing flavor:
Flour: Whisked into butter or oil to make a simple roux, flour is a classic thickener that gives the soup body. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Cornstarch or arrowroot: Mix with a splash of cold stock or water to create a slurry before adding it to the soup. Both are naturally gluten-free and work well for a glossy finish.
Potatoes: Adding diced potatoes while simmering (and blending them in) creates a naturally creamy, thick soup without extra starches.
Pumpkin or squash purée: Double up on the star ingredient! Adding more purée naturally thickens the base while boosting flavor.
Cashew cream: Soaked blended cashews create a rich, dairy-free thickener that blends seamlessly into creamy soups.
Coconut cream: Adds thickness while keeping it dairy-free, with a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin and apple.
Bread: A traditional Italian method—tear up crusty bread and simmer it in the soup before blending for a hearty texture.
Cheese: Parmesan, cheddar, or Gruyère not only add flavor but also thicken the soup as they melt in.
Always add thickeners gradually and stir well to avoid lumps. For the smoothest texture, blend the soup after thickening.
Common Q + A's for Creamy Roasted Apple Pumpkin Soup
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream, oat cream, or cashew cream. For the Parmesan, use a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy, nutty flavor.
Is there a vegan version of this soup?
Definitely. Replace the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use vegetable stock as the base, and opt for coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Finish with vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to keep it creamy and flavorful.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes. Simply replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or a certified gluten-free flour blend to thicken the soup. Be sure to double-check that your stock and seasonings are gluten-free too.
What apples work best for this soup?
Sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, Sweet Tango, or Fuji balance the earthy pumpkin and creamy base perfectly. Avoid overly tart apples like Granny Smith. Read my blog post for great options in more depth!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Does this soup freeze well?
Yes! Cool the soup completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving room at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, stirring in cream or cheese after reheating if needed.
How do I make the soup extra thick and creamy?
Add more pumpkin purée, a cooked potato, or use a cornstarch slurry. Blending in cashew cream is another great option for a rich, velvety texture.
What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, grilled cheese, roasted vegetables, or a light fall salad pair beautifully with this cozy soup.
More Favorite Comforting Fall Recipes
If you thoroughly enjoyed this Creamy Roasted Apple Pumpkin Soup recipe, don't forget to add these delicious creations to your "must-make" list:
If you tried my Creamy Roasted Apple Pumpkin Soup Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag me @shanikagrahamwhite on Instagram. I love hearing from you!
4cupsvegetable stock, organic(You'll be dividing this)
1tablespoonraw honey or maple syrup
4Tbspsorganic all-purpose flour
1teaspoonsea salt
1teaspoonblack pepper
1teaspoonsmoked paprika
1teaspoongarlic powder
1teaspoondried oregano
1teaspoondried basil
1teaspoondried thyme
½teaspoonground cinnamon
⅛teaspoonground allspice
2cupsorganic pumpkin puree(NOT Pie filling!)
1cuporganic heavy cream
1cupfreshly-grated parmesan cheese
TOPPING:
Homemade croutons(Read my blog post for amazing topping options for this soup; I used brioche bread to make my How to Make Homemade Croutons)
Instructions
TO ROAST THE APPLES:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Add the sliced apples onto the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until tender and the apples have wilted and become golden. Remove from oven, let cool for a few minutes.
TO MAKE THE HOMEMADE CROUTONS:
Be sure to follow my Homemade Croutons and feel free to use another bread like brioche for a nice twist in flavor!
BLEND EVERYTHING TOGETHER:
In a medium-sized dutch oven pot over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and add the sautéed garlic in a high-powered blender along with the roasted apples and 2 cups of the vegetable stock. Blend on high-speed until everything is fully broken down and smooth.
TO MAKE THE SOUP:
In the same medium-sized dutch oven pot over medium-high heat, add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the flour, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, basil, thyme, cinnamon, and allspice, stirring everything together. Slowly add the remaining 2 cups of vegetable stock, whisking until the mixture thickens and becomes lump-free.
Add the blended apple mixture along with the heavy cream, honey, and pumpkin puree, continuing to whisk everything together until combined and the soup begins to thicken.
Let everything boil for 1-2 minutes and then reduce heat to low to allow a simmer for another 5-6 minutes. NOTE: At this point, the soup should be thickened as it continues to simmer.
Add in the freshly-grated parmesan cheese and stir until combined and melted.
Remove from heat and serve immediately into prepared bowl(s), top with homemade croutons, if desired.
Bon Appetit!
Tips & Tricks
STORAGE: Leftovers can be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, for optimal freshness. Can also be frozen for 4-6 months. To defrost, simply place soup in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature before re-heating on the stove top to serve.
BEST CHEESES FOR THIS SOUP: Read blog post for more info!
VEGAN, GLUTEN-FREE, + OTHER OPTIONS: See FAQ section!
LOVE THIS RECIPE?
LET US KNOW!