Introduction
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the excitement of game day approaches, it’s time to elevate your snack game with a unique twist that combines seasonal flavors with savory goodness. Introducing Pumpkin Spice and Cheesy Broccoli Bites—a delightful fusion that perfectly captures the essence of fall while keeping your taste buds cheering for more!
These bites are not only easy to whip up but also provide a nourishing crunch that even the pickiest eaters will love. Imagine tender broccoli florets enveloped in a creamy, cheesy mixture with a hint of warm pumpkin spice—it’s a recipe that celebrates the rich flavors of the season while providing a guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for tailgating, watching the big game at home, or even as a cozy appetizer for fall gatherings, these bites are destined to become a new favorite.
Grab your baking sheet and let’s get cooking! These Pumpkin Spice and Cheesy Broccoli Bites are sure to be a touchdown at your next gathering!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp pumpkin spice (blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
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- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the chopped broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes until they turn vibrant green. Drain and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process. Once chilled, drain again and chop them finely.
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- In a sizable mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, pumpkin spice, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
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- Gently fold in the chopped broccoli, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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- With a tablespoon or cookie scoop, create small, bite-sized portions and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each.
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- Drizzle olive oil over the bites for added flavor and crunch, and optionally, sprinkle a bit more cheese on top.
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- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and firm when touched.
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- Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these scrumptious bites warm with your preferred dipping sauce!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 20 bites
Key Ingredients
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: 2 cups, chopped into small pieces for a wholesome base.
- Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup, adding a creamy texture and a hint of autumn flavors.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, for cheesy goodness and flavor enhancement.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated, to sprinkle on top for added richness.
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, for a crunchy coating and binding element.
- Eggs: 2 large, to help bind the mixture together.
- Pumpkin Spice: 1 teaspoon, for that signature fall flavor blend.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, adding a hint of savory depth.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Olive Oil: For drizzling and added moisture when baking.
These key ingredients come together to create a delicious bite-sized treat that’s perfect for game day or any festive gathering!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that when you put your bites in, they’ll cook evenly and thoroughly for a satisfying crunch.
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Prepare the Broccoli: Rinse the broccoli thoroughly and chop it into small florets. Blanch the florets in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until well mixed. This spice blend will provide that signature fall flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheesy goodness.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, and shredded cheese of your choice (sharp cheddar works wonderfully!). Mix until smooth to create a creamy base that will bind your bites.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Finally, fold in the chopped broccoli, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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Prepare for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. You can also use mini muffin tins for a fun bite-sized option!
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Scoop and Shape: Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, portion out the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you’re using mini muffin tins, fill each cup about three-quarters full.
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Optional Toppings: For an extra touch and crunch, sprinkle some additional shredded cheese or pumpkin seeds on top of each bite before baking.
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Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown on the top and set in the center. If you’re using mini muffin tins, check for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
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Cool and Serve: Once removed from the oven, allow your Pumpkin Spice and Cheesy Broccoli Bites to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. This will help them firm up a bit more. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or a drizzle of ranch or yogurt sauce for added flavor.
Enjoy these delightful bites as you cheer on your team this game day! They’re not just scrumptious but also a wholesome way to celebrate with friends and family.
Serving Suggestions
These Pumpkin Spice and Cheesy Broccoli Bites are perfect for game day gatherings, but they can also be enjoyed in various ways to suit your occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience:
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Dipping Sauces: Serve the bites warm with a variety of dipping sauces such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or a homemade sweet chili sauce. For a seasonal twist, a maple mustard dip complements the pumpkin spice perfectly!
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Garnish & Presentation: Garnish your platter with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a splash of color. Use small, decorative bowls for dips and arrange the bites neatly for an appealing visual presentation.
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Mix with Game Day Snacks: Create a game day snack platter by pairing the broccoli bites with other favorites such as homemade guacamole, stuffed jalapeños, and a selection of cheese and crackers.
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Topped on a Salad: For a lighter option, serve your broccoli bites over a bed of mixed greens or kale. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing balance to the rich and cheesy bites.
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Mini Sliders: Turn these bites into a fun slider by placing them on mini buns with optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, or a slice of avocado. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or a main dish!
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Serve with a Creamy Soup: Pair them with a warm bowl of butternut squash or tomato soup for a comforting meal. The flavors of the soup and the cheesy bites complement each other beautifully.
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Vegetable Platter: Offer a colorful vegetable platter alongside your broccoli bites, featuring crunchy carrots, celery sticks, and cherry tomatoes. This not only adds crunch but also invites your guests to enjoy a well-rounded snack spread.
With these serving suggestions, your Pumpkin Spice and Cheesy Broccoli Bites are sure to be a hit at your next event! Enjoy the game, and happy snacking!
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Spice and Cheesy Broccoli Bites are not just a delicious treat for game day; they’re a fantastic way to sneak some nutritious greens into your festivities while indulging in the cozy flavors of fall. The savory richness of cheese pairs beautifully with the subtly sweet and aromatic pumpkin spice, creating a unique bite-sized snack that your friends and family will rave about.
Whether you’re tailgating with friends or enjoying a cozy game night at home, these bites are sure to be a hit. They are easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and are perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces. Plus, you can customize them by adding in extra spices or different cheeses to suit your taste. So, grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the comforting flavors of these cheesy, spiced delights as you cheer for your favorite team. Happy snacking!
