Easy Pumpkin Goat Cheese Bites
These incredibly simple Pumpkin Goat Cheese Bites are the perfect fuss-free fall appetizer. They feature delicate, crispy shells filled with a creamy, flavorful pumpkin and goat cheese mixture, capturing the essence of autumn in every bite.
Equipment
- Medium bowl
- Fork for mixing
- piping bag with star tip optional, for fancier presentation
- mini muffin tins if using puff pastry
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened Using softened goat cheese makes it easier to mix and spread.
- 0.25 cup pumpkin purée Make sure you're using pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup Adds sweetness to balance goat cheese and complement pumpkin.
- 0.25 teaspoon cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice Adds cozy fall aroma and taste.
- salt and pepper To taste, to bring flavors together.
- 1 package mini phyllo shells Or small puff pastry squares, pre-baked in mini muffin tins.
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, pumpkin purée, honey or maple syrup, and cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir everything together with a fork until smoothly combined and creamy.
- Spoon or pipe the pumpkin goat cheese mixture into the mini phyllo shells or pre-baked puff pastry cups.
- Serve immediately for a warm appetizer or chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Notes
For a nutty crunch, sprinkle toasted chopped pecans or walnuts on top. A tiny pinch of fresh sage or thyme, finely chopped, can add a savory note. For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Phyllo shells can lose crispness over time; reheat gently in a 300°F oven if desired.