Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips

This Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal snack for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, enjoying a cozy night in, or looking for a unique appetizer, this dish is sure to impress. The creamy pumpkin hummus pairs perfectly with crunchy cinnamon-sugared pita chips, creating a festive treat that captures the essence of autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick snacks or unexpected guests.
• Flavorful Combination: The warm spices in the pumpkin hummus and the sweetness of the cinnamon-sugared pita chips create a delicious contrast that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Snack: Serve it at parties, family gatherings, or as an afternoon treat—this dish fits any occasion.
• Healthy Indulgence: Packed with nutritious ingredients like chickpeas and pumpkin, this snack is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices and sweetness to your taste, ensuring every batch is tailored to your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Brush (for applying butter)

Importance of Each Tool

• Food Processor: Essential for achieving a smooth and creamy hummus texture without any lumps.
• Baking Sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking of the pita chips.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Hummus:

 

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice (to taste)
• 1–2 tablespoons water (as needed for consistency)

For the Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips:

 

• 4 pita bread rounds
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Pita Chips

1. Cut the pita rounds into triangles.
2. Brush each triangle with melted butter.
3. Sprinkle them generously with sugar and ground cinnamon.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet.

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Hummus

In a food processor:

1. Combine chickpeas, pumpkin purée, tahini, olive oil, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
2. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 4: Adjust Consistency and Serve

Add lemon juice and water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Taste the hummus and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil if desired. Serve alongside the cinnamon-sugared pita chips for an irresistible snack!

How to Serve Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips

Serving Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips is a delightful experience that can elevate any gathering. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this tasty treat.

As a Festive Appetizer

• Serve in a decorative bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of olive oil for an appealing presentation.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Pair the hummus with sliced carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a fresh and crunchy contrast to the creamy dip.

At a Game Day Party

• Place the pumpkin hummus and pita chips on your snack table as a unique alternative to traditional game day snacks.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include pumpkin hummus in your charcuterie spread alongside cheeses, olives, and assorted nuts for a well-rounded flavor profile.

For Cozy Movie Nights

• Set up a cozy movie night at home with warm blankets, popcorn, and plates of Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips for your guests to enjoy.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips

Creating the perfect pumpkin hummus requires attention to detail. Here are some useful tips to enhance your recipe.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality chickpeas and fresh spices will significantly improve the flavor of your hummus.
• Adjust Consistency: If your hummus is too thick, add water gradually until you reach your desired creaminess.
• Taste Test: Always taste your hummus before serving; adjusting lemon juice or salt can elevate its flavor immensely.
• Cool Pita Chips Completely: Let the pita chips cool on a wire rack after baking. This ensures they remain crunchy when served.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust or add other spices like allspice or cloves to give your hummus a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin hummus can create an even more enjoyable snacking experience. Here are some great options:

1. Stuffed Mini Peppers: Colorful mini peppers filled with cream cheese or herbs provide a refreshing bite alongside the sweet dip.
2. Crispy Roasted Chickpeas: Seasoned roasted chickpeas add extra crunch and protein, complementing the flavors of the pumpkin hummus.
3. Apple Slices: Sliced apples offer a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the spices in both the hummus and pita chips.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie provides creaminess that balances out the spices in the dish.
5. Olives: A variety of olives can introduce salty notes and additional textures that enhance the overall tasting experience.
6. Mixed Nuts: Offering an assortment of nuts adds crunch and healthy fats, making for an excellent accompaniment to your sweet snack spread.
7. Grilled Veggies: Charred vegetables like zucchini or eggplant bring smoky flavors that work well against the sweetness of the pumpkin.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs can serve as an excellent refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of pumpkin hummus.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using dry chickpeas: This can lead to a gritty texture. Always use canned chickpeas for a creamier hummus.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and tweak the flavors can result in bland hummus. Start with the suggested spices and adjust according to your preference.
• Overbaking pita chips: This can make them too hard. Keep an eye on them while baking to achieve a perfect crisp without burning.
• Skipping the lemon juice: This ingredient adds necessary brightness to the hummus. Don’t omit it; instead, adjust the amount based on your taste.
• Using stale pita bread: Old pita will not yield crisp chips. Always use fresh pita for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin hummus in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Pita chips should be kept in a separate container to maintain their crispness.

Freezing Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips

• You can freeze pumpkin hummus for up to 3 months.
• For best results, portion it into smaller containers before freezing.
• Do not freeze pita chips as they will lose their crunch.

Reheating Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the hummus for about 15 minutes in an oven-safe dish.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat, stirring often to avoid scorching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips.

How do I make my pumpkin hummus smoother?

To achieve a silkier texture, blend longer and add more water or olive oil gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I customize my pumpkin hummus?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different spices like smoked paprika or roasted garlic for unique flavors that suit your taste.

What can I serve with pumpkin hummus?

This versatile dip pairs well with fresh veggies, crackers, or even drizzled over salads for added flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly! All ingredients are plant-based and suitable for vegan diets.

How long does the pumpkin hummus last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 5 days.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Hummus with Cinnamon-Sugared Pita Chips is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can easily customize it by adding spices or toppings of your choice. Give this fall-inspired snack a try; it’s sure to impress!