Save Pumpkin Spice Hummus with Bat Pita Chips is a playful cozy appetizer that brings autumn flavors and a festive twist to your snack table Creamy hummus blended with real pumpkin and warming spices pairs perfectly with crisp homemade bat shaped pita chips
I love putting out this platter for Halloween parties or a fun family night it never fails to spark smiles and second helpings When I first made this for a fall themed potluck it was gone in minutes and guests immediately asked for the recipe Now it is my go to for any autumn celebration especially when my nieces are over to help cut out the pita bats
Ingredients
- Chickpeas canned: give the hummus its signature creaminess and protein Boost flavor by using a high quality organic brand for extra tenderness
- Pumpkin purée unsweetened: creates that velvety fall base When shopping look for bright orange pumpkin without added sugar or pie spices
- Tahini: provides rich nuttiness and helps with smooth blending Choose tahini that is runny and not overly bitter
- Olive oil: for flavor and extra silkiness A mild extra virgin oil works well
- Lemon juice fresh: makes all the spices really pop Squeeze fresh lemons rather than bottled juice for brightest taste
- Garlic raw: for savory depth Use a plump fresh clove for best results
- Cinnamon nutmeg ginger cloves: each adds layers of autumn spice Use freshly ground spices if possible for the most aromatic punch
- Cumin: grounds the sweetness for true hummus flavor
- Sea salt: brings everything together Taste and adjust as you go
- Water: to control texture Add a spoonful at a time until reach your favorite dip ability
- Maple syrup: a drizzle can add just a touch of cozy sweetness Use real maple only and skip if you prefer savory flavors
- Pita bread: for chips Look for sturdy puffy pitas to hold their shape
- Smoked paprika and cinnamon: on the chips gives the snack a warm savory crunch
- Sesame seeds optional: for extra crunch and a pretty finish
- Olive oil and cinnamon for garnish: if you like your hummus presentation extra special
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius Arrange a rack in the center and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup
- Cut the Bat Pita Chips:
- Press a bat shaped cookie cutter into the pita bread to make as many bats as you can Gently separate each piece so the shapes hold Try to use thick pita so the bats are sturdy after baking
- Mix the Seasoning Oil:
- In a small bowl thoroughly combine olive oil cinnamon smoked paprika and sea salt Stir until the spices are evenly distributed in the oil
- Coat and Bake the Chips:
- Arrange the pita bats in a single layer on your prepped baking sheet Using a pastry brush generously brush each side of the bats with the seasoned oil Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes flipping the chips halfway through Continue until they are crisp golden and aromatic Let them cool on a rack for maximum crunch
- Blend the Pumpkin Spice Hummus:
- In a food processor combine drained chickpeas pumpkin purée tahini olive oil lemon juice garlic cinnamon nutmeg ginger cloves cumin sea salt and maple syrup Pulse until the mixture is uniformly smooth and creamy Scrape down the sides several times for even blending
- Adjust Texture:
- With the machine running drizzle in water one tablespoon at a time Pause and check for the perfect consistency you want a dip that holds its shape but still scoops easily
- Finish and Taste:
- Taste the hummus and decide if it needs more salt lemon or a touch more maple for your perfect balance Adjust as needed and give it a final blend
- Garnish and Present:
- Spoon the hummus into a pretty bowl Drizzle with a ribbon of olive oil A dusting of cinnamon or a scattering of pumpkin seeds adds extra fall flair
- Serve with Cooled Chips:
- Arrange the bat chips around the hummus and serve right away for crunch factor
Save Cinnamon is my favorite ingredient because it bridges sweet and savory like nothing else Every time I serve this my family gathers around to vote if it tastes more like fall dessert or a perfect party dip The best memories always come from letting the kids pile on extra cinnamon and get creative with their pita shapes
Storage Tips
Store extra hummus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days The chips stay crisp for two days in a paper towel lined tin or loosely covered bowl To freeze hummus spoon it into a container with room to expand and let thaw in the fridge overnight before stirring well
Ingredient Substitutions
Try black beans instead of chickpeas for an earthier spin Sunflower seed butter stands in for tahini if you avoid sesame Agave nectar makes a vegan swap for maple syrup or just skip for all savory Swap the pita with large gluten free wraps if needed
Serving Suggestions
Pile the bat chips onto a spooky platter and serve alongside sliced crunchy veggies Add a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds on top for a fun autumn crunch It also makes a great spread for fall sandwiches or wraps
Cultural Roots and Seasonal Twists
Classic hummus is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine but adding pumpkin and warming spices gives it a playful American autumn touch This is a creative way to use surplus pumpkin purée after your fall baking and bring something unexpected to the appetizer table
Seasonal Adaptations
Roast your own pumpkin for deeper flavor during peak fall Add caramelized onions or roasted garlic if you prefer savory over sweet Try ghost or pumpkin cookie cutters for variety with the chips
Success Stories
A friend shared that she made these chips for her daughter’s classroom Halloween party and there were zero leftovers Another family mentioned that their picky eaters gobbled up the dip when they got to help cut out the bats
Freezer Meal Conversion
Make a double batch of hummus and freeze small portions they are great for lunchboxes or last minute snacks Bat pita chips can be cut and frozen raw lay them out to bake straight from the freezer for party time
Save Light spicy creamy and fun this pumpkin hummus makes every autumn gathering instantly feel festive Serve with extra chips and cinnamon for extra smiles
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, both the hummus and pita chips can be made a day in advance. Store hummus covered in the fridge and chips in an airtight container.
- → How do I achieve ultra-smooth hummus?
Use a food processor, blend thoroughly, and add water gradually for your preferred creamy texture.
- → Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely. Roast and purée fresh pumpkin for a flavorful alternative to canned purée.
- → What can I use if I don’t have a bat-shaped cookie cutter?
Simply slice pita into triangles or other festive shapes, or use any seasonal cutter you have.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Enjoy with gluten-free pita or assorted sliced vegetables such as carrots, celery, or cucumber.
- → Are there nut or sesame allergies to consider?
This includes tahini (sesame). Substitute with sunflower seed butter for a nut- and sesame-free dip.