Pumpkin Goat Cheese Bites

Pumpkin goat cheese bites were a delightful accident I stumbled into while planning a fall dinner party and I wanted something savory and seasonal that felt special without being fussy. I had leftover canned pumpkin in the fridge and a log of goat cheese I didn’t want to waste and so I combined them and added spices and nuts and the result was a perfectly creamy and tangy appetizer with just the right hint of sweetness.

Ever since then and I make these for almost every autumn gathering and especially Thanksgiving. Guests are always surprised by how bold the flavors are for such a simple bite and the crunch of the pecans against the smooth cheese just melts in your mouth. It’s now one of my go-to fall recipes and they vanish within minutes every single time!

Ingredients :

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Goat cheese – Brings a creamy and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Pumpkin purée – Adds that unmistakable fall flavor and a lovely orange hue.
• Cream cheese – Helps mellow the tanginess and adds smooth texture.
• Maple syrup – A touch of sweetness that balances the savory ingredients.
• Pumpkin pie spice – Gives it warm seasonal flavor in every bite.
• Chopped pecans – Add crunch and nutty richness to coat the outside.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – To combine and mix all the cheese and pumpkin ingredients smoothly.
• Hand mixer or fork – Helps whip everything together until light and fluffy.
• Small cookie scoop or spoon – For portioning out even-sized cheese bites.
• Parchment paper – Keeps the bites from sticking while chilling or rolling.
• Plate or tray – Used to arrange and chill the finished bites before serving.

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the Base

I start by adding goat cheese and cream cheese to a mixing bowl and let them soften a bit at room temperature. Then I mix in the pumpkin purée and maple syrup until it’s creamy.

Step 2: Add Spices

Next and I sprinkle in the pumpkin pie spice and a pinch of salt. I like to taste as I go and adjust for more spice or sweetness depending on my mood.

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

I cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This makes the mixture firmer and easier to shape into bites.

Step 4: Shape into Balls

Once chilled and I use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the mixture and then gently roll them into bite-sized balls with my hands.

Step 5: Coat with Pecans

I roll each ball in the chopped pecans and pressing lightly so the nuts stick well. It gives them that irresistible crunchy coating.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

I place the finished bites on a parchment-lined tray and chill them again for another 15-20 minutes before serving so they hold their shape.

Tips

I sometimes add a dash of cayenne for a sweet-spicy twist that surprises guests in the best way.

These bites can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

If you’re not a fan of goat cheese and you can use all cream cheese for a milder flavor.

Ways to Serve

I love to serve these on a charcuterie board alongside crackers and fruit.

They’re perfect for holiday appetizers and game day snacks or brunches.

You can even stick toothpicks in each for easy grabbing at a party.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Pumpkin Goat Cheese Bites ahead of time?

Yes and I usually prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge until serving.

What can I use instead of goat cheese in Pumpkin Goat Cheese Bites?

You can swap goat cheese for more cream cheese if you want a milder taste.

Do Pumpkin Goat Cheese Bites need to be refrigerated?

Yes and they should be kept chilled until ready to serve to maintain their texture.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these Pumpkin Goat Cheese Bites a try at your next fall or holiday gathering! They’re quick and festive and packed with flavor in every bite. Let me know how you like them and feel free to experiment with different coatings or spice blends.

Happy Cooking!

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