These Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders are a fun and festive twist on a classic favorite. Soft, golden buns shaped like little pumpkins hold juicy, flavorful patties that everyone will love. A touch of spice and a cute green “stem” on top make these sliders perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you want a playful meal.
I really enjoy making these when friends come over because they always start conversations and smiles before anyone even takes a bite. Shaping the buns is easier than you might think, and I like to add a bit of pumpkin spice to the mix for a subtle autumn touch. It’s those little details that make this dish feel special without any extra fuss.
My favorite way to serve them is on a big wooden platter with some simple toppings like crisp lettuce, mild cheese, and a sweet mustard sauce on the side. They’re perfect for sharing, and they look adorable on any party table. I always feel like these sliders bring a little warmth and fun to the meal, and everyone ends up asking for the recipe!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Buns: The soft buns shaped like pumpkins are the star here. Using active dry yeast and a little sugar helps the dough rise nicely. Adding pumpkin pie spice is optional but gives a subtle fall flavor and warm color. If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg works well.
Ground Beef: I recommend an 80/20 blend for juicy, flavorful patties. For a leaner option, 90/10 works but add a bit of olive oil to keep them moist. You could also swap beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for different diets.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully over the patties and adds a nice tang. If you prefer milder cheese, try Monterey Jack or mozzarella. Vegan cheese slices can be used for dairy-free versions.
Kale or Lettuce: Finely chopped curly kale mimics pumpkin leaves perfectly. If you want milder greens, use shredded iceberg lettuce or baby spinach instead.
How Do I Make Perfect Pumpkin-Shaped Buns?
Shaping the buns to look like pumpkins is all about creating those classic ridges. Here’s how:
- After shaping the dough balls, tie kitchen twine around each one in 5-6 sections, squeezing gently to form grooves.
- Let them proof (rise) with the twine on to hold the shape better.
- Bake the buns with the twine still on, then carefully cut the twine off after baking.
- Add a small pretzel or green pepper stem on top for the pumpkin’s stem.
- Use a small knife or kitchen scissors to carve or pipe simple faces to complete the look.
Take your time with the twine – it helps make the shape stand out clearly while baking. The egg wash before baking adds a shiny finish that mimics a real pumpkin’s smooth skin.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – Perfect for combining dough and seasoning the meat without mess.
- Kitchen scale or measuring cups – Helps get the dough and ingredients just right for consistent buns and patties.
- Wooden spoon or dough hook – Great for mixing the dough until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Kitchen twine – Essential for shaping the buns into pumpkin sections during proofing and baking.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – Makes clean-up easy and helps buns bake evenly.
- Small sharp knife or kitchen scissors – Useful for carving cute faces on the buns after baking.
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan – Lets you cook patties evenly while melting cheese on top.
- Basting brush – Handy for applying egg wash to give buns a shiny golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner slider that still tastes great.
- Add finely chopped mushrooms or cooked bacon to the patties for extra flavor and texture.
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a bit of spicy kick inside the buns.
- Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the dough or patties for an herby twist, perfect for fall.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – for combining dough and seasoning meat with ease.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the ingredients just right.
- Whisk or wooden spoon – to mix ingredients smoothly.
- Kneading surface – a clean countertop or large board for kneading the dough by hand.
- Kitchen twine – to shape the buns and create the pumpkin ridges.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
- Small sharp knife or kitchen scissors – for carving pumpkin faces on the buns.
- Skillet or grill pan – to cook the patties evenly and melt the cheese.
- Basting brush – for applying egg wash to give the buns a shiny golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Meat Alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat to suit dietary preferences.
- Cheese Options: Try pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for a mild melt.
- Extra Mix-Ins: Add finely chopped mushrooms, cooked bacon, or fresh herbs like thyme into the patties for extra flavor.
- Dough Twist: Mix some fresh rosemary or sage into the dough for a warm, herby note suited to fall flavors.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace patties with grilled portobello mushrooms or seasoned black bean patties.
Can I Use Store-Bought Slider Buns Instead of Making My Own?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought slider buns work fine. Just add the pumpkin stems and faces using pretzel sticks and a small knife or mustard for decoration to keep the festive look.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, and if the buns seem dry, a quick brush of butter or a damp paper towel over the top helps keep them moist.
Can I Prepare the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the dough the night before, shape the buns, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Just take them out an hour before baking to let them come to room temperature and finish rising.
What Can I Use Instead of Kitchen Twine to Shape the Pumpkin Buns?
If you don’t have kitchen twine, thin strips of cotton string or even clean dental floss (unflavored) can work. Just make sure whatever you use is food-safe and easy to remove after baking.
