Flavorful Pumpkin Hummus Recipe with Spiced Pepitas

The creamy texture of hummus paired with the rich, earthy sweetness of pumpkin is a match made in heaven. But wait—add a sprinkle of crunchy, spiced pepitas on top, and you’ve got a show-stopping appetizer that’s as tasty as it is beautiful. This flavorful pumpkin hummus is perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings, or even as a healthy snack option. I’ve tested this recipe countless times, and let me tell you—it’s one of those dishes that disappears before you even realize it.

It’s not just delicious; it’s simple, quick, and a little unexpected. Pumpkin might not be the first thing you think of when you hear “hummus,” but trust me when I say it adds a depth of flavor that makes all the difference. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen during autumn, especially when pumpkins are everywhere and I want to get a little creative with seasonal ingredients.

Whether you’re a hummus enthusiast or a pumpkin fanatic (or both!), this recipe is going to win you over. Let’s dive into the details so you can whip up your own batch of this crowd-pleasing dip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This pumpkin hummus comes together in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining or meal prep.
• Seasonally Inspired: With pumpkin as the star ingredient, this recipe is perfect for fall festivities and holiday gatherings.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with protein from chickpeas and healthy fats from tahini, this dip is as nourishing as it is tasty.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The combination of smoky paprika, garlic, and creamy pumpkin creates a unique, irresistible savory-sweet flavor.
• Customizable: You can tweak the spices, toppings, and even the base ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

What sets this recipe apart is the addition of spiced pepitas. They’re roasted with a blend of warm spices that perfectly complement the pumpkin hummus, adding a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor. Plus, this dish isn’t just delicious—it’s a feast for the eyes. The vibrant orange hue of the hummus topped with those golden-green pepitas makes it Insta-worthy for sure!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s a breakdown:

For the Pumpkin Hummus:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling—make sure it’s 100% pumpkin!)
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 3 tbsp tahini (look for a good-quality, creamy tahini for the best flavor)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 2 cloves garlic (peeled)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spiced Pepitas:

• ¼ cup raw pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
• ½ tsp olive oil
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Pinch of salt

If you’re missing an ingredient or need to make substitutions, don’t worry! Check out the variations in the section below for some creative swaps.

Equipment Needed

• Food Processor: Essential for blending the hummus into a smooth, creamy texture. If you don’t have one, a high-powered blender can work too.
• Baking Sheet: For roasting the pepitas to perfection.
• Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the food processor.
• Measuring Spoons: Accuracy matters with spices, so make sure you’ve got these handy.

Don’t have a food processor? You can mash the chickpeas and pumpkin by hand with a fork or potato masher, though the texture won’t be as smooth. It’s still delicious!

Preparation Method

For the Pumpkin Hummus:

1. In a food processor, combine the pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more lemon juice for brightness, salt for flavor, or olive oil for creaminess.
4. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and drizzle with extra olive oil.

For the Spiced Pepitas:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, toss the pepitas with olive oil, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
3. Spread the pepitas on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they’re golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
5. Let the pepitas cool slightly before sprinkling them over the hummus.

Serve immediately with your favorite dippers—pita chips, veggie sticks, or crackers—or store for later.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Use high-quality tahini: Creamy tahini is key for the smooth texture and nutty flavor of the hummus. If your tahini is separated, stir it well before using.
• Don’t skip the lemon: The acidity brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the pumpkin and tahini.
• Roast your pepitas carefully: They can go from golden to burnt quickly, so keep an eye on them while they’re in the oven.
• Adjust your spices: If you prefer a spicier hummus, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of chili flakes.
• Serve at room temperature: Allow the hummus to sit for 10-15 minutes after mixing for the flavors to meld together.

Variations & Adaptations

• Make it dairy-free: It’s already dairy-free, but you can omit the olive oil entirely if you prefer a lighter version.
• Gluten-free option: Serve with gluten-free crackers or sliced veggies like cucumber, bell pepper, or carrot sticks.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili powder or harissa paste for a fiery kick.
• Seasonal swap: Use roasted butternut squash or sweet potato puree instead of pumpkin for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Make it nut-free: Replace tahini with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.

I’ve also tried adding roasted garlic instead of raw, which gives the hummus a sweeter, more mellow garlic flavor. Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This flavorful pumpkin hummus is best served at room temperature. Arrange it in a shallow bowl, drizzle it generously with olive oil, and sprinkle the spiced pepitas on top for a beautiful presentation. Pair it with pita chips, crackers, or fresh veggie sticks like celery, cucumber, and carrot.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pepitas may lose some crunch over time, so consider storing them separately. To reheat, warm the pepitas in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 minutes.

Pro tip: The flavors of this hummus deepen over time, making it even better the next day. It’s perfect for meal prep!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Per serving (approximately ¼ cup):

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g

Key health benefits include:

• Pumpkin: Packed with vitamin A, antioxidants, and fiber.
• Chickpeas: A great source of plant-based protein and fiber.
• Pepitas: Rich in magnesium, zinc, and healthy fats.

This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for a variety of dietary preferences.

Conclusion

This flavorful pumpkin hummus with spiced pepitas is one of my favorite go-to recipes during the fall season. It’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for everything from cozy nights at home to holiday parties. Plus, those spiced pepitas really take it to the next level!

I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. Feel free to personalize it with your favorite spices or toppings—it’s flexible and forgiving! If you try it, let me know in the comments below how it turned out. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family too. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just roast and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth. It may require a bit more effort but will taste amazing.

What can I use instead of tahini?

If you don’t have tahini, you can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a substitute.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Pumpkin hummus can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve over time.

Are spiced pepitas necessary?

Not at all, but they add a delightful crunch and flavor. You can use plain roasted pepitas if preferred.

What should I serve with pumpkin hummus?

Pita chips, crackers, or fresh veggies like cucumber and carrot sticks are all excellent options.

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