Pumpkin Hummus with Pita Chips for an Effortless Fall Appetizer

Is there anything more cozy than the smell of pumpkin and warm spices on a crisp fall day? It just screams holiday gatherings and good times around the table. But if you’re like me, the thought of adding one more complicated dish to your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving menu can feel a little daunting. That’s where this ridiculously easy Pumpkin Hummus with Pita Chips comes in. It gives you all the flavor of the season in one creamy, dreamy dip that’s ready in under 15 minutes. No cooking, no stress—just a whole lot of delicious.

Why You’ll Love This

You’re going to adore this recipe because it checks every single box for a busy host. It’s fast, requires zero cooking, and uses mostly pantry staples. But the real magic is in the flavor. The classic savory, nutty taste of hummus gets a gorgeous fall makeover with creamy pumpkin and a warm hug of spices like cinnamon and cumin. The result is a slightly sweet, deeply savory dip that’s utterly addictive. It feels fancy and special enough for your holiday table, but it’s so simple you can whip it up for a quick fall snack any day of the week. So good.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed – the hearty base of our hummus.
• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) – for that signature fall flavor and creamy texture.
• 1/4 cup tahini – adds essential nutty richness and helps create that smooth consistency.
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – a bright splash to balance the richness.
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling – for richness and a silky finish.
• 1 large clove garlic, minced – for a little savory kick.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – a warm, earthy spice that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – adds a subtle smokiness and lovely color.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon – the secret weapon that makes it taste like the holidays.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste – to bring all the flavors together.
• 2-4 tablespoons cold water – to thin the hummus to your perfect dipping consistency.
• For serving: pita chips, assorted raw veggies (like carrots, celery, and bell peppers), and apple slices.

Let’s Get Cooking Step by Step

1. Gather all your ingredients. This is a one-bowl recipe, so grab your food processor or a high-powered blender.
2. Add the drained chickpeas, pumpkin puree, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and salt to the bowl of the food processor.
3. Secure the lid and blend for one minute. Stop, scrape down the sides with a spatula, and blend again for another minute. The mixture will be thick.
4. With the processor running, slowly stream in 2 tablespoons of cold water through the feed tube. Blend for a full two minutes, until incredibly smooth and creamy. Stop and check the consistency. If you prefer a thinner hummus, add another tablespoon or two of water and blend again until it’s just right for you.
5. Give it a taste. This is the most important step! Does it need more salt? A little more lemon juice? Adjust to your liking.
6. Transfer your beautiful pumpkin hummus to a serving bowl. Use the back of a spoon to create swirls on the surface. Drizzle generously with more olive oil and a light sprinkle of smoked paprika or pumpkin seeds for a pretty finish.
7. Serve immediately with plenty of pita chips and veggies for dipping, or pop it in the fridge for a bit to let the flavors get to know each other even better.

Perfect Pairings for Pumpkin Hummus

This hummus is the ultimate social butterfly of the appetizer table—it gets along with everyone! Of course, the classic pita chip is a flawless partner, offering that sturdy crunch we all love. But don’t stop there. For a fresh and healthy crunch, try dipping with bell pepper strips, cucumber rounds, or baby carrots. And for a sweet and savory combo that will honestly blow your mind, try dipping thin slices of crisp apple or firm pear. The sweet fruit with the spiced hummus is a real showstopper. It also makes a fantastic spread for a leftover turkey sandwich the next day!

Variations & Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to what you have and what you love. Out of tahini? A dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of extra olive oil can help with the creaminess, though the flavor will be a bit different. Not a fan of cumin? Try a pinch of ground coriander instead. For a fun twist, stir in a tablespoon of pure maple syrup for a sweeter profile, perfect for dipping apples. And if you’re feeling a little adventurous, a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper will add a lovely, warm heat that plays so nicely with the squash and cinnamon.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

While this dip is a star on its own, it can absolutely anchor your entire appetizer spread. For Thanksgiving food ideas or Friendsgiving food ideas, set out a big bowl of this Pumpkin Hummus surrounded by dippers and call it a day. Everyone will love it. You can also create a beautiful fall grazing board with the hummus as the centerpiece, surrounded by pita chips, an assortment of cheeses (a sharp cheddar or creamy brie would be lovely), cured meats like smoked turkey, grapes, figs, and toasted nuts. It’s a no-cook, effortless way to feed a crowd that looks incredibly impressive.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 5 days. You might notice it thickens up a bit in the fridge; just give it a good stir and it will come right back to life. This hummus does not freeze well, as the texture can become grainy and separate when thawed. For the best taste and texture, enjoy it fresh from the fridge. Always give it a quick smell and check for any off odors before eating leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned? Absolutely! You’ll need about 1 1/2 cups of cooked chickpeas. Using dried chickpeas you’ve cooked yourself can actually yield an even creamier texture, but canned is all about convenience and works perfectly. It’s one of my favorite easy Thanksgiving recipes for that exact reason.

Can I make this ahead of time for my Thanksgiving menu? Yes, please do! This is an excellent make-ahead option. Making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld and develop, making it even more delicious. Just keep it covered in the fridge and give it a stir before serving.

Is this considered one of those Thanksgiving recipes side dishes? While it’s served as an appetizer, its hearty, savory-sweet flavor profile certainly holds its own alongside the main event. It’s a fantastic starter that seamlessly fits into the flow of your Thanksgiving food sides and overall menu.