Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins

There’s something truly magical about transforming simple ingredients into delightful little creations, and these Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins do just that. With their adorable, festive appearance and a warm, savory ricotta filling nestled inside tender biscuit dough, they bring a touch of playful charm to any gathering. The subtle hint of garlic butter brushed on top adds a fragrant finish that’s simply irresistible. These are a guaranteed hit at fall get-togethers or as a fun appetizer for family movie nights. They store beautifully, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights when you want something special without the fuss. Plus, the sheer joy on people’s faces when they see these little edible pumpkins is always a wonderful reward.

Why I Love This Recipe

These Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins are a personal favorite for so many reasons. They are incredibly easy and fast to make.

• Festive & Fun: They look so cute and are perfect for autumn parties.
• Quick Prep: Using biscuit dough makes assembly a breeze. These treats are ready in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The savory ricotta filling is always a hit. Both kids and adults adore these.
• Versatile: They are great as an appetizer or a light snack. Enjoy them anytime!

Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins Ingredients

The magic of these Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins truly shines through a simple yet satisfying mix. It’s a delightful blend offering comfort and charm. You’ll find everything you need is quite easy to source.

• Ricotta Cheese: This creates our creamy, savory filling. It provides a wonderfully smooth texture.
• Shredded Mozzarella: It’s key for that essential gooey, melty cheese pull. Everyone loves it.
• Grated Parmesan: This adds a sharp, nutty depth to our ricotta blend. It makes a big difference.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: These are vital seasonings. They enhance all the delicious flavors.
• Pillsbury Grands Southern Homestyle Biscuits: These are our convenient shortcut. They form our tender pumpkin shapes easily.
• Unsalted Butter: It makes the base for our fragrant garlic butter glaze. This adds a lovely finish.
• Fresh Garlic: This infuses the butter with a warm, savory aroma. It smells amazing while cooking.
• Fresh Parsley: It adds a touch of brightness and color. This looks pretty against the golden glaze.
• Paprika: This contributes a subtle sweetness. It also gives a beautiful golden hue to the glaze.
• Thin Pretzel Sticks: These are used for the adorable “stems.” They complete the pumpkin look.
• Marinara Sauce: It’s perfect for dipping these savory bites. A classic pairing!

Substitutions and Tips:

For a richer filling, consider adding a tablespoon of pesto. A pinch of red pepper flakes also works well. If fresh parsley isn’t on hand, dried parsley can be used. However, the flavor won’t be quite as vibrant. Always ensure your kitchen twine is food-safe. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try experimenting with a dairy-free ricotta alternative. Vegan mozzarella can also be a good substitute.

How to Make Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins

Making these adorable pizza-stuffed pumpkins is easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps for a delightful appetizer.

Prepare the Ricotta Filling

In a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, finely grated Parmesan, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Set it aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the dough. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Shape the Dough

Open the biscuit dough tube and separate the biscuits. Cut each biscuit into roughly four equal pieces. Gently roll each piece into a ball with your hands. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each dough ball. Aim for a round shape, about 3 1/2 to 4 inches in diameter.

Stuff and Seal the Dough

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the prepared ricotta mixture into the center of each dough round. Carefully gather the edges of the dough up. Pinch them together firmly at the top to create a sealed pocket. Gently press the bottom of each stuffed dough ball. This helps them stand upright better.

Chill the Dough

Place the formed dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Ensure they have a little space between each one. Refrigerate them for about 20 minutes. This chilling step helps the dough hold its shape better during baking.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, cut sixteen pieces of kitchen twine. Make each piece about 17 to 20 inches long. These will be used to create the signature pumpkin shape.

Tie the Pumpkin Shapes

On a clean cutting board, lay out one strip of kitchen twine. Place one stuffed dough ball in the center of the twine. Loosely tie the twine around the dough. Then, flip it over and tie it again. It’s much like tying a gift. Turn the dough ball. Tie the twine around it one more time. This mimics the segments of a pumpkin. Make a loose knot to secure the twine. Trim off any excess twine. Repeat this process for all the stuffed dough balls.

Bake the Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins

Arrange the tied dough balls on a fresh parchment-lined baking sheet. Space them about 1 to 2 inches apart for expansion. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes. Bake until the dough is beautifully golden brown and looks perfectly cooked.

Make the Garlic Butter Glaze

While the stuffed biscuits are baking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan. Use medium-low heat for this. Add the finely chopped garlic, chopped fresh parsley, and paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 1 to 2 minutes. Cook just until the garlic is fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Remove from heat. Let the glaze cool slightly before using.

Finish and Serve

Once the Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins are baked, carefully brush them with the prepared garlic butter glaze. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. Once they are cool enough to handle, carefully remove the kitchen twine. Gently insert a thin pretzel stick into the top of each pumpkin. This creates a perfect stem. Serve these delightful savory appetizers warm. Offer marinara sauce for dipping!

How to Store Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins

Have extra pizza-stuffed pumpkins? No problem!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing works great. Place baked and cooled pumpkins in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They last up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven or toaster oven for best texture.

Tips for Success

Here are a few essential tips for perfect Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins.

• Tie the kitchen twine loosely. This allows the dough to expand nicely.
• Ensure the dough is well-sealed. This prevents the ricotta filling from leaking out.
• Don’t overbake your treats. You want golden brown, not hard biscuits.
• Pre-chill the dough balls. They will keep their pumpkin shape better during baking.
• Always use food-safe kitchen twine. Safety is so important when cooking.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Having the right tools makes creating these pizza-stuffed pumpkins even easier.

• Mixing bowls are essential.
• Measuring cups and spoons are needed.
• A rolling pin works well. A smooth glass is a good alternative.
• Baking sheets are super important.
• Parchment paper prevents sticking.
• A small saucepan is required for the glaze.
• Food-safe kitchen twine is a must.
• Pretzel sticks add the perfect stem.

Serving Suggestions

These adorable pizza-stuffed pumpkins are wonderfully versatile! Here are a few ideas.

• Serve them warm. Your favorite marinara sauce is perfect for dipping.
• Offer a simple green salad. It makes for a nicely balanced meal.
• Pair with apple cider. A crisp white wine also works wonderfully.
• Arrange them on a festive platter. Add other fall appetizers for a complete spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the ricotta filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ricotta filling for your Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. This can save you time on the day you plan to assemble and bake them.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

Absolutely! While ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a classic savory blend, feel free to experiment. A sharp cheddar or a bit of provolone can add a different flavor dimension to your stuffed biscuits. Just ensure the cheese melts well.

How do I prevent the dough from sticking to the kitchen twine?

Make sure to tie the twine loosely and ensure the dough is well-sealed. The butter glaze applied after baking also helps prevent sticking. If you notice any sticking, gently use a knife to loosen the twine before removing it completely.

Can I make these Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins without kitchen twine?

While the twine is crucial for creating the signature pumpkin shape, you can try an alternative if you don’t have it. Instead of tying, you could try gently pressing indentations into the dough with a skewer or the back of a spoon to mimic the pumpkin lines. However, the twine method yields the most authentic look for these stuffed biscuits.

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