Description
Pumpkin patties are crisp on the edges, creamy in the middle, and full of cozy fall flavor. They use pantry staples like canned pumpkin, onion, flour, and spices for a fast, comforting dish that works for weeknights, brunch, or entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (drained if very wet)
- 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1–2 tsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup finely minced onion or green onion
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Spices of choice: paprika + cumin + parsley (savory) OR cinnamon + nutmeg + ginger (cozy)
- Neutral oil for pan-frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk egg, pumpkin purée, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and baking powder until combined.
- Fold in flour and cornstarch until batter holds a soft mound on a spoon; rest 5–10 minutes.
- Heat a thin layer of oil in a nonstick skillet over medium.
- Scoop 2–3 tbsp batter per patty, flatten slightly, and cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Avoid overcrowding.
- Drain on a wire rack to keep edges crisp.
- Bake option: Brush patties with oil and bake at 400°F, flipping once, until golden.
Air fryer option: Mist with oil and cook at 380–390°F, flipping once. - Serve hot with lemon-herb yogurt dip, garlic-dill yogurt, or drizzle with maple for a sweet-savory balance.
Notes
Tips: Drain pumpkin well to prevent soggy centers. Add flour 1 tbsp at a time if batter is too loose. Resting the batter improves texture. For serving, try patties in pita with herbs and tahini, or stacked with a fried egg for brunch. FAQ: – How do I keep pumpkin patties crispy? Drain pumpkin, rest batter, pan-fry over medium, and finish on a rack. – Can I bake or air-fry them? Yes, brush with oil and bake at 400°F, or air-fry at 380–390°F. – What if batter is too loose? Add flour or cornstarch 1 tbsp at a time. – Are gluten-free or vegan versions possible? Yes: use a GF flour blend + cornstarch; replace egg with a flax egg.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Skillet, Baked, or Air-Fried
- Cuisine: American