As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the warmth of autumn flavors. One of my absolute favorites to whip up is this creamy pumpkin hummus. The first time I tasted it, I was surprised by how the familiar comfort of traditional hummus could take on a delightful fall twist! It’s a feast for the senses: the creamy texture beckons for a dip while the hint of spices tantalizes the palate.
This vibrant orange dip is not only quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, but it’s also a healthy, vegetarian delight that’s perfect for gatherings or simply to enjoy at home. Whether you spread it on crispy pita chips or pair it with fresh veggies, pumpkin hummus brings a new level of excitement to snack time. Let’s dive into making a dish that’s sure to elevate your autumn gatherings and become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation!
Why Is Pumpkin Hummus a Must-Try?
Creamy Delight: The silky smoothness of this pumpkin hummus is truly irresistible, perfect for spreading or dipping.
Flavorful Twist: Infused with seasonal spices, this dip brings a warm, cozy flavor to every bite.
Healthy Choice: Packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s a guilt-free option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, you can whip this up effortlessly for last-minute guests.
Versatile Snack: Pair it with pita chips, fresh veggies, or even as a sandwich spread for endless enjoyment!
Pumpkin Hummus Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful pumpkin hummus!
For the Base
- Garbanzo beans (1 can, 15 ounces) – Rinse and drain them to achieve a smooth texture.
- Canned pumpkin (1 cup) – Ensure it’s pure pumpkin for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- Tahini (1/3 cup) – Adds a creamy, nutty flavor; almond or cashew butter can be used as substitutes.
For the Flavor Profile
- Olive oil or pumpkin seed oil (1/4 cup) – Enhances richness; a neutral oil works too.
- Orange juice (3 tablespoons) – Brightens flavors; lemon juice is a good alternative.
- Toasted sesame oil (1 tablespoon) – Deepens the sesame flavor; feel free to adjust to taste.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon) – Provides warm, earthy notes; customize based on your preference.
- Minced garlic (1 teaspoon) – Fresh garlic gives the best flavor; feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) – A pinch balances all the flavors; feel free to adjust it to your liking.
For the Finish
- Pumpkin seed oil or olive oil for drizzling (optional, 2 tablespoons) – A lovely touch for presentation.
- Salted pumpkin seeds or pepitas (1/4 cup) – Introduces a delightful crunch; can be omitted if desired.
- Pomegranate seeds (1/4 cup) – Adds a pop of color and sweet surprise; other fresh fruits can be used as alternatives.
- Baked pita chips and sliced apples/pears – Perfect dippers that can be swapped based on your taste!
Bring the essence of fall into your kitchen with this delicious pumpkin hummus!
How to Make Pumpkin Hummus
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Combine Ingredients: In your food processor, add the garbanzo beans, canned pumpkin, tahini, olive oil (or pumpkin seed oil), orange juice, toasted sesame oil, ground cumin, minced garlic, and salt.
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Blend Smooth: Process the mixture until it’s silky and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to blend everything beautifully and achieve an even texture.
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Transfer & Garnish: Once the hummus reaches a nice consistency, transfer it to a serving dish. Drizzle with the optional oil, and sprinkle generously with pumpkin seeds and pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.
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Serve: Pair this delicious pumpkin hummus with crispy pita chips and sliced apples or pears. It’s perfect for dipping and delighting your guests!
Optional: For added sweetness, consider drizzling a bit of maple syrup on top.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Hummus
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Perfect Consistency: Aim for a silky texture by blending thoroughly. Stop to scrape down the sides of the food processor to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Flavor Balance: Taste before serving! You can adjust salt, spices, or acidity (like lemon juice) to achieve your preferred flavor in the pumpkin hummus.
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Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Try different oils or nut butters to cater to your taste or dietary needs.
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Avoid Grittiness: Ensure your tahini is well-stirred and smooth for the best texture. This helps prevent any graininess in the final product.
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Presentation Matters: Garnish with a drizzle of oil and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds or pomegranate seeds to make your pumpkin hummus visually stunning and inviting!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Hummus?
As you savor the creamy goodness of this vibrant dip, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your snack experience.
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Vegetable Platter: Crunchy carrots, bell peppers, and cucumber slices provide a fresh contrast and brighten the plate.
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Baked Pita Chips: Crisp and lightly salted, these are perfect for scooping up your pumpkin hummus and adding satisfying crunch.
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Sliced Apples or Pears: The sweetness of fresh fruit complements the earthy flavors of the hummus, creating a refreshing taste adventure.
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Roasted Chickpeas: For an added protein punch, these crispy bites echo the base of the hummus and enhance the snacking experience.
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Quinoa Salad: A light, fluffy quinoa salad with herbs and citrus can serve as a filling accompaniment, balancing textures and flavors beautifully.
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Red Wine: A smooth, fruity red wine enhances the warm spices and complements the dip’s richness, making it an ideal pairing for gatherings.
Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall while sharing this delicious pumpkin hummus and its perfect partners with loved ones!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Hummus bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire hummus mixture up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time during busy weeknights. To do this, simply combine all the ingredients as per the recipe and store the hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For maintaining quality, consider reserving the toppings—like pumpkin seeds and pomegranate seeds—until just before serving, so they stay fresh and crunchy. When you’re ready to serve, simply give the hummus a quick stir, drizzle with additional oil if desired, and plate it with your favorite dippers for a delightful and delicious snack!
Pumpkin Hummus Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this pumpkin hummus recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists!
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Chickpea Swap: Replace garbanzo beans with cannellini beans for a creamier texture and a slightly different flavor. This variation will surprise your taste buds!
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Nut-Butter Play: Use almond or cashew butter instead of tahini to fit your dietary preferences. Both bring a nutty depth while keeping it creamy and delicious.
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Citrus Change: Try lemon juice instead of orange juice for a brighter, tangier taste. This citrus swap adds a fresh twist that dances on the palate.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a touch of heat. This twist can elevate the overall flavor, creating a delightful contrast with the sweetness of pumpkin.
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Sweet & Savory: Incorporate a drizzle of maple syrup to enhance the sweetness; this adds a lovely richness that makes the dip even more versatile!
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Herbal Infusion: Stir in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a vibrant, fresh note. This small addition livens up the dish with a burst of color and flavor.
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Vegan Twist: Substituting the drizzle of oil with a nut-based cream can provide a rich finish without any added oils, making this recipe even lighter.
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Texture Contrast: Fold in roasted garlic or sautéed onions for added texture and a deeper flavor profile. This hearty addition will take your hummus experience to new heights!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Hummus
Fridge: Store any leftover pumpkin hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This keeps it fresh for snacking throughout the week.
Freezer: You can freeze pumpkin hummus for up to 3 months in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: If you enjoy it warm, gently reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to restore its creamy texture.
To Avoid Drying: To maintain the creamy consistency of your pumpkin hummus, ensure it’s well-sealed and kept without exposure to air, which can lead to drying out.
Pumpkin Hummus Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pumpkin for my pumpkin hummus?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your pumpkin hummus, choose pure canned pumpkin, not pie filling. If you opt for fresh pumpkin, select a small, sweet variety like sugar pie pumpkins. They should feel heavy for their size, have a firm skin, and be free from blemishes.
How should I store leftover pumpkin hummus?
Very! Store any leftover pumpkin hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This keeps it fresh and delicious for snacking throughout the week. Just make sure to keep it sealed tightly to prevent any contamination.
Can I freeze pumpkin hummus? If so, how?
Absolutely! You can freeze pumpkin hummus for up to 3 months. To do this, place it in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the hummus overnight in the refrigerator. If the texture seems a bit off after thawing, just give it a good stir or blend with a splash of olive oil before serving.
What if my pumpkin hummus is too thick or gritty?
Ah, the classic hiccups in hummus-making! If your pumpkin hummus turns out too thick, blend in a small amount of water or olive oil, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. For any grittiness, ensure your tahini is well-blended before adding to the mix. Using a high-quality tahini that’s smooth and creamy will help achieve the right texture.
Is pumpkin hummus safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, indeed! If you’re catering to someone with nut allergies, you can substitute the tahini with sun butter or simply omit it entirely to still enjoy a delicious dip. Always double-check any ingredient labels to ensure they’re nut-free, and feel free to add more spices or a dash of extra oil for flavor!
Can I personalize my pumpkin hummus with additional ingredients?
Absolutely! The more, the merrier. You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a sweeter profile, or even roasted garlic for a bolder flavor. Experiment with your favorite ingredients to create a hummus that feels uniquely yours!
Pumpkin Hummus Bliss: A Cozy Fall Snack You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In your food processor, add the garbanzo beans, canned pumpkin, tahini, olive oil (or pumpkin seed oil), orange juice, toasted sesame oil, ground cumin, minced garlic, and salt.
- Process the mixture until it's silky and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to blend everything beautifully and achieve an even texture.
- Once the hummus reaches a nice consistency, transfer it to a serving dish. Drizzle with the optional oil, and sprinkle generously with pumpkin seeds and pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.
- Pair this delicious pumpkin hummus with crispy pita chips and sliced apples or pears. It’s perfect for dipping and delighting your guests!