These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites are a delicious and fun treat, perfect for Halloween or a summer gatherings in South Africa. Light, fluffy, and coated in a crispy cinnamon sugar crust, these bites are ideal for a warm-weather celebration, offering a sweet and satisfying flavour.
They’re incredibly easy to make and are sure to be a hit at Halloween parties, as a family treat, or as a cosy snack while enjoying your favourite Halloween films. With a few simple ingredients and a touch of cinnamon spice, these pumpkin bites will become your go-to Halloween snack.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (for rolling)
Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites
Preheat the oven to 180°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Make sure the oven is hot and ready to create the perfect crispy exterior.
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and all the ingredients are thoroughly combined, creating a rich base for the bites.
Add the flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently until the dough forms, being careful not to overmix, so that the bites stay tender.
Fold in the melted butter, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough. This will add moisture and richness, ensuring each bite is perfectly balanced.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into small, uniform balls. This will help ensure they cook evenly.
Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar, ensuring they’re fully coated to create that signature crispy and sweet exterior.
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart slightly to allow for a light puff when baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bites are set and lightly golden on top. They should be soft yet slightly crisp when done.
Let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. The cinnamon sugar will create a lovely crispy coating, while the inside remains fluffy and soft.
Serving Suggestions
These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, still warm, but they’re also a great snack to serve at outdoor braai, summer parties, Halloween, or any occasion in the South African summer heat. You can even pair them with a refreshing cold drink like iced tea or lemonade to balance out the sweetness.
Enjoy the warm, summery flavours of these bites—perfect for sharing with friends and family during the hot summer months in South Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh butternut instead of pumpkin?
Yes, fresh butternut can be used. Simply peel, cook, and puree it until smooth before measuring. This will give your bites a delightful, fresh flavour.
How should I store leftover butternut bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving.
Can I make these bites gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free. Make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free.
What can I substitute for sugar in this recipe?
You can use alternatives such as coconut sugar, agave syrup, or honey. Keep in mind that using liquid sweeteners may alter the texture, so you might need to adjust the amount of flour accordingly.
Is it possible to make these bites vegan?
Yes! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, left to sit until it thickens) and use a plant-based butter substitute.
How do I ensure my bites are fluffy?
To keep the bites light and fluffy, avoid overmixing the dough after adding the flour. Mix just until everything is combined.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the recipe?
Definitely! You can fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even some chocolate chips for added flavour and texture.
What is the best way to reheat these bites?
Reheat them in a preheated oven at 150°C for about 5-7 minutes. This will help restore their crispy coating while warming them through.
How do I make the cinnamon sugar coating?
To create the cinnamon sugar, simply mix equal parts sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. You can adjust the ratio to your taste by increasing the cinnamon for a stronger flavour.
Can I use other spices instead of cinnamon?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to create a different flavour profile for your butternut bites.
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