A Festive Pumpkin Snack Board for Easy Entertaining

There’s something truly magical about autumn, isn’t there? The crisp air, the vibrant leaves, and the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice filling the kitchen. This season always brings me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where the warmth of her oven and the scent of baking treats made every afternoon feel like a special occasion. And this Autumn Harvest Pumpkin Snack Board is a delightful way to capture that same spirit of warmth and togetherness, perfect for sharing.

I remember one chilly October afternoon, my grandmother and I tried to make a “dessert pizza” with leftover pie crust and some spiced pumpkin filling. It was a glorious mess, but the joy of creating something new, even imperfectly, has always stayed with me. This snack board embodies that same playful spirit, allowing for creativity and connection.

This recipe is wonderfully versatile and incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for both seasoned bakers and kitchen newcomers. It’s perfect for cozy family evenings or impressing guests at your next gathering, offering a balance of sweet and savory that everyone will adore. My best tip? Always taste and adjust your seasonings as you go – that’s how true magic happens!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting this delightful autumn spread hinges on a few simple, wholesome ingredients like creamy pumpkin puree, earthy tahini, and a medley of warming spices, all coming together to create a truly inviting Pumpkin Snack Board. I always find that using fresh, good-quality produce makes all the difference in achieving those vibrant flavors we cherish. You’ll find the complete list of ingredients and precise measurements in the recipe card below.

How to Make Pumpkin Snack Board

Creating this beautiful Pumpkin Snack Board is a journey of simple steps that culminate in a stunning presentation. You’ll begin by blending up a creamy, spiced pumpkin hummus, then toast some maple-kissed pumpkin seeds to crunchy perfection. Next, stir together a dreamy pumpkin spice yogurt dip, and finally, arrange all your delightful components artfully on a board, ready to be enjoyed.

Autumn Harvest Pumpkin Snack Board

An inviting spread featuring homemade spiced pumpkin hummus, crunchy maple-roasted pumpkin seeds, and a sweet pumpkin spice yogurt dip, perfectly complemented by a variety of dippers for a festive fall gathering.

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Spiced Pumpkin Hummus

• 1 can chickpeas 15 oz, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper optional
• 2 tbsp olive oil plus more for drizzling
• 2-3 tbsp cold water as needed
• Salt to taste

For the Maple-Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

• 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds pepitas
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• Pinch cinnamon

For the Pumpkin Spice Yogurt Dip

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt full-fat recommended
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For Serving

• 2 apples sliced
• 1 cup pretzels
• 1/2 cup graham crackers broken
• Assorted crackers or pita chips
• Cheese cubes optional
• Carrot sticks optional

Equipment

• Food Processor
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Small mixing bowls
• Serving Board

Method

 

Prepare the Spiced Pumpkin Hummus

1. In a food processor, combine the rinsed chickpeas, pumpkin puree, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Process until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
2. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2-3 tablespoons of cold water until the hummus reaches your desired creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Transfer to a small serving bowl.

Prepare the Maple-Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine the raw pumpkin seeds, maple syrup, olive oil, sea salt, and cinnamon. Toss until the seeds are evenly coated.
3. Spread the coated pumpkin seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Let cool completely on the baking sheet (they will crisp up more as they cool).

Prepare the Pumpkin Spice Yogurt Dip

1. In another small mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Transfer to a small serving bowl.

Assemble the Pumpkin Snack Board

1. Arrange the bowls of Spiced Pumpkin Hummus and Pumpkin Spice Yogurt Dip on a large serving board or platter.
2. Place the cooled Maple-Roasted Pumpkin Seeds in a small dish or sprinkle directly onto the board.
3. Artfully arrange the apple slices, pretzels, graham crackers, assorted crackers, and any other desired accompaniments around the dips.
4. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the hummus before serving, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your festive Pumpkin Snack Board!

Notes

For an even creamier hummus, remove the skins from the chickpeas before processing, though it’s not strictly necessary.
The roasted pumpkin seeds can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Customize your board with other fall favorites like dried cranberries, goat cheese, or even mini pumpkin muffins.

Pro Tips for Making This Pumpkin Snack Board

When I’m putting together a beautiful spread like this Pumpkin Snack Board, I always have a few tricks up my sleeve to make it shine. Presentation truly can elevate the simplest ingredients into something extraordinary.

For the hummus, always make sure your chickpeas are well-drained and even patted dry before blending; this ensures a silkier texture that’s simply irresistible. Don’t be shy with the lemon juice and a touch of cold water to achieve that perfect creamy consistency.

My Secret Trick: When roasting the pumpkin seeds, I always toss them with a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper along with the maple syrup and cinnamon. It doesn’t make them spicy, but it adds a subtle warmth that really makes the flavors pop and leaves everyone guessing my secret ingredient!

When assembling your board, think about color and texture. Place larger bowls first, then fill in with your dippers and smaller components, creating a visual flow that invites everyone to dig in. A little sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil can also add a touch of elegance.

Don’t be afraid to prepare some elements ahead of time. The hummus and yogurt dip can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge, making assembly on the day of your gathering a breeze.

Fun Variations for Pumpkin Snack Board

One of the things I adore most about a Pumpkin Snack Board is how wonderfully adaptable it is! It’s like a blank canvas just waiting for your personal touch, inviting you to experiment with flavors and textures.

Sweetening the Deal

If you have a sweet tooth, like my friend Sarah always does, try adding some mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of caramel sauce to the pumpkin spice yogurt dip. You could also include some dried cranberries or candied pecans on the board for an extra layer of sweetness and crunch.

Savory Twists

For those who prefer a more savory profile, consider swapping out some of the sweet dippers for more robust options. I’ve often seen my family enjoy adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the roasted pumpkin seeds or incorporating a sharp cheddar cheese alongside the milder varieties on the board.

Seasonal Swaps

Beyond pumpkin, think seasonally! In late autumn, roasted sweet potato cubes or spiced apple slices would be a fantastic addition to the board. My sister loves when I add some fig jam alongside the dips for a truly sophisticated touch that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

What to Serve With Pumpkin Snack Board

A beautiful Pumpkin Snack Board isn’t just a centerpiece; it’s an invitation to gather and enjoy! While it’s certainly a star on its own, a few simple accompaniments can make the experience even more delightful.

I love serving this board with a warm mug of spiced apple cider – the flavors just sing together, especially on a cool evening. For a more adult gathering, a light-bodied white wine or a crisp hard cider would be a lovely complement to the sweet and savory notes. My mom always insists on having a pot of freshly brewed herbal tea ready, saying it perfectly balances all the rich flavors.

For a quick serving idea, I often prepare small individual cups with a dollop of the yogurt dip and a few pretzels or graham crackers tucked in. It makes for easy grab-and-go portions and minimizes fuss, leaving more time for conversation and laughter around the table.

How to Store Pumpkin Snack Board

After all the delightful nibbling from your Pumpkin Snack Board, you might find yourself with a few cherished leftovers, and I always want to ensure they stay as fresh and delicious as possible. Proper storage is key to preserving those lovely autumn flavors for another day.

For the pumpkin hummus and the pumpkin spice yogurt dip, transfer them into separate airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay wonderfully fresh for up to 3-4 days. The roasted pumpkin seeds should also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunch for about a week.

Any cut fruits like apples are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have a few slices left, a quick dip in a little lemon juice before refrigerating can help prevent browning. I like storing cakes in airtight containers to keep them moist, and the same principle applies here – separating components helps keep everything at its best.

Nutritional Benefits

This delightful Pumpkin Snack Board truly embraces the best of autumn’s bounty, offering a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing. With ingredients like fiber-rich chickpeas and vitamin A-packed pumpkin puree, alongside protein-packed Greek yogurt, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting snack. It showcases my approach of combining simple, wholesome ingredients into something truly special.

FAQs

Faq 1

Can I make the hummus and dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! Both the spiced pumpkin hummus and the pumpkin spice yogurt dip can be prepared 1-2 days in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator, and give them a good stir before serving your Pumpkin Snack Board.

Faq 2

What if I don’t have tahini for the hummus?
While tahini adds a classic nutty depth, you can substitute it with 1-2 tablespoons of natural, unsweetened cashew butter or even skip it. The hummus will still be delicious and a wonderful part of your Pumpkin Snack Board.

Faq 3

How can I make this snack board gluten-free?
To make your Pumpkin Snack Board gluten-free, simply ensure all your dippers are certified gluten-free. Opt for gluten-free pretzels, graham crackers, and pita chips, and focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, and cheeses.

Faq 4

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, please use 100% pure pumpkin puree. Canned pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which would alter the intended flavor profile of the spiced pumpkin hummus and pumpkin spice yogurt dip on your Pumpkin Snack Board.

Conclusion

Creating this Autumn Harvest Pumpkin Snack Board is more than just making a recipe; it’s about embracing the joy of the season and sharing those sweet, comforting moments with loved ones. It reminds me of all the wonderful memories I’ve made in the kitchen, experimenting and eventually sharing my creations. I truly hope this delightful board inspires you to gather, connect, and savor the simple magic of homemade treats. Happy baking, my friends!