Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spiced Pumpkin Hummus is a creamy, savory dip that brings together the heartiness of chickpeas and the earthy sweetness of pumpkin. Infused with warm spices like cumin, coriander, and nutmeg, this recipe is perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday parties, or everyday snacking. It offers a seasonal twist on classic hummus while remaining quick to prepare and loaded with wholesome ingredients. Paired with crunchy pita chips, it’s an appetizer that delivers flavor, texture, and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chickpeas: One can (15 ounces) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed. These are the creamy base of the hummus, adding protein and fiber.

• Pumpkin Puree: One cup of cooked pumpkin puree. Use canned plain pumpkin or fresh roasted and mashed pumpkin for that rich, earthy flavor.

• Tahini: A quarter cup of tahini (sesame seed paste), which gives the hummus its signature nutty flavor and silky texture.

• Olive Oil: A quarter cup of good-quality olive oil for richness and to help emulsify the ingredients.

• Lemon Juice: Two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the flavor and balance the richness of the pumpkin and tahini.

• Ground Cumin: One teaspoon of ground cumin adds a warm, slightly smoky note that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.

• Ground Coriander: Half a teaspoon of ground coriander for a subtle citrusy undertone that enhances the overall flavor.

• Ground Nutmeg: A quarter teaspoon of ground nutmeg brings a hint of spice and warmth, ideal for a fall-inspired dip.

• Salt: A quarter teaspoon of salt to enhance all the other flavors.

• Black Pepper: A quarter teaspoon of ground black pepper for a mild kick and depth.

• Pita Chips: For serving. You can use store-bought or make your own by toasting or baking pita bread slices until crisp.

Directions

1. In a food processor, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas, cooked pumpkin puree, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.

2. Blend the mixture until completely smooth and creamy. This may take 1–2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired—add a little more lemon juice for brightness or salt for depth.

4. If the texture is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of cold water or more olive oil to thin it out to your desired consistency.

5. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. For presentation, make a swirl on top with the back of a spoon and drizzle with a little olive oil if desired.

6. Serve immediately with pita chips or refrigerate until ready to use.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 6 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Pumpkin Hummus: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

• Sweet Pumpkin Hummus: Blend in a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey for a slightly sweet and savory version.

• Garlic Pumpkin Hummus: Add one or two cloves of roasted garlic for extra depth and flavor.

• Herbed Pumpkin Hummus: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or sage for an aromatic twist.

• Toppings Upgrade: Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds, a sprinkle of paprika, or crumbled goat cheese for added flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pumpkin hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
This dip is best served cold or at room temperature and does not need reheating.
If it thickens in the fridge, stir in a small splash of olive oil or water before serving to loosen the texture.
Freezing is possible—store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before using.

FAQs

What type of pumpkin works best for this recipe?

Plain, cooked pumpkin puree works best—either canned or homemade. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes. Cook 1/2 cup of dried chickpeas (which yields about 1.5 cups cooked) until soft, then use them in place of canned chickpeas.

How do I make the hummus smoother?

For extra smooth hummus, peel the chickpeas before blending and add a few tablespoons of ice water while processing.

Is this hummus suitable for vegans?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are plant-based and 100% vegan.

Can I serve this warm?

Hummus is traditionally served cold or at room temperature, but you can warm it gently if preferred. Do not boil or overheat it.

What can I serve with this pumpkin hummus?

Pita chips are classic, but you can also serve it with vegetable sticks, crackers, toasted bread, or even as a spread for wraps and sandwiches.

How long does homemade hummus last?

It will stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze leftover pumpkin hummus?

Yes. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. Thaw in the fridge and stir before serving.

Can I add garlic to this recipe?

Definitely. Add 1–2 cloves of raw or roasted garlic for extra flavor. Roasted garlic will give a sweeter, milder taste.

Is pumpkin hummus healthy?

Yes, it’s packed with fiber, protein, healthy fats, and vitamins from both the chickpeas and pumpkin. It’s a nourishing snack or appetizer.

Conclusion

Spiced Pumpkin Hummus is a deliciously seasonal spin on the classic dip. With its smooth texture, warm spices, and wholesome ingredients, it makes a standout snack or appetizer for fall and beyond. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, prepping snacks for the week, or just craving something savory and satisfying, this hummus delivers rich flavor and cozy comfort in every bite.