Pumpkin biscuits are a unique and flavorful variation of the classic Southern buttermilk biscuit. By incorporating pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, these biscuits offer a delightful taste of fall in every bite.
The addition of pumpkin not only lends a beautiful orange hue to the biscuits but also provides a subtle sweetness and extra moisture, resulting in a tender and fluffy texture. These biscuits are perfect for breakfast, as a side dish for savory meals, or even as a snack with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients
One of the best things about pumpkin biscuits is that they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. Most recipes call for all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, pumpkin puree, butter or shortening, and milk or buttermilk.
These staple ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making it convenient to whip up a batch of these delightful biscuits whenever the craving strikes
Versatile & Delicious Serving Options
Pumpkin biscuits are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide range of dishes. They make a delightful addition to any fall breakfast or brunch, served alongside eggs, bacon, or sausage. For a sweet treat, split the biscuits and spread them with honey butter, jam, or apple butter.
These biscuits also complement savory dishes, such as chili, stews, soups, and roasted meats. Their slightly sweet flavor and tender texture provide a perfect balance to hearty, rich dishes, making them an ideal side for fall and winter meals.
Variations & Adaptations
While the classic pumpkin biscuit recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to adapt and customize it to suit your preferences. Some variations include adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch, incorporating shredded cheese for a savory twist, or sprinkling the tops with cinnamon sugar before baking for an extra touch of sweetness.
For those following a gluten-free diet, pumpkin biscuits can be made using a combination of gluten-free all-purpose flour and almond flour, resulting in a tender and moist biscuit.
The addition of pumpkin puree helps to keep the biscuits ultra-moist and provides a pleasant flavor and color.
Pumpkin Biscuits
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 4 tbsp shortening you may substitute butter or coconut oil
- 1/3 cup milk
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and greasing a medium-sized baking dish. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, pumpkin puree, and milk until well combined. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the dry ingredients.
- In a separate medium mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Using a pastry cutter or a fork, cut the shortening (or your preferred substitute) into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This technique ensures that the shortening is evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the flour mixture and gently fold the ingredients together until just moistened. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough biscuits. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently 3-4 times until a soft dough forms.
- Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/2 inch. With a biscuit cutter or a cup/jar (if you don’t have a biscuit cutter), cut out circles from the dough. Place the biscuits in the greased baking dish, making sure they’re touching each other slightly. This will help them rise evenly and create softer sides.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the biscuits for 20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade pumpkin biscuits with butter, honey, or your favorite toppings!
Nutrition
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.