As the golden hues of fall blanket the world outside, I’m drawn to the warmth of my kitchen, where the aroma of pumpkin and spices dances in the air. It’s the perfect time to cozy up with a delightful treat like these easy Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites with Cream Cheese Filling! These little gems are not just a dreamy blend of pumpkin muffins and creamy cheesecake, but they’re also a breeze to whip up, making them ideal for those bustling holiday gatherings or a quiet night in. Imagine indulging in savory bites that effortlessly combine comfort and a festive spirit, all while being kind to your schedule. Are you ready to dive into a sweet autumn adventure that’s sure to impress? Let’s get started! Why are these pumpkin bites a must-try? Irresistible Flavor: These mini delights combine pumpkin’s natural sweetness with a rich cream cheese center that melts in your mouth. Quick Prep Time: Made in the Instant Pot, you’ll save time while creating a fall favorite that’s ready in no time! Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a relaxing evening at home, these bites are versatile enough to fit any setting. Healthier Indulgence: Made with wholesome ingredients, they offer a guilt-free sweetness that satisfies your dessert cravings without the fast-food guilt. Don’t forget to serve these bursts of flavor alongside an afternoon coffee or as a sweet ending to your Thanksgiving feast, just like I do with my Frozen Chocolate Bites and Wrapped Mozzarella Bites! Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites Ingredients For the Pumpkin Bites Canned Pumpkin – Provides the base flavor and moisture; you can also use homemade pumpkin puree if preferred. Eggs – Bind the mixture and add richness; for a vegan alternative, use flax eggs. Vegetable Oil – Ensures moisture and tenderness; swap with melted coconut oil or applesauce for a lighter option. Milk – Adds moisture and richness; any dairy or non-dairy milk works for a lactose-free version. Honey and Brown Sugar – Provide sweetness and depth; substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option. Pumpkin Pie Spice – Brings that delightful autumn flavor; can be replaced with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. For the Cream Cheese Filling Cream Cheese – Creates a luscious filling; replace with vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version. For Cooking Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking; ensure it’s non-stick or use silicone molds to avoid any sticking issues. These Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites are not just a treat; they are a cozy experience waiting to be shared! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling In a mixing bowl, combine a block of cream cheese, sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or a spatula, blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. This delicious filling will become the heart of your Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites, adding a delightful contrast to the soft, pumpkin batter. Step 2: Whisk the Pumpkin Batter In a separate large bowl, whisk together your canned pumpkin, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, honey, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until fully combined, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should achieve a uniform, thick consistency that exudes a warm, spices-filled aroma, setting the stage for the rich flavors of your Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients Gradually sift in your dry ingredients, such as flour and baking powder, into the wet pumpkin mixture. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin batter until just combined; be cautious not to overmix. This step is crucial to keep your bites light and fluffy, ensuring each mouthful feels like a little bite of heaven. Step 4: Grease the Silicone Molds Prepare your silicone molds by lightly spraying them with cooking spray. This prevents any sticking during the cooking process and helps retain the lovely shape of your Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites. Ensure good coverage to promote easy removal once they’re cooked and cooled. Step 5: Fill the Molds Spoon the pumpkin batter into the greased molds, filling them about halfway. This allows ample room for the cream cheese filling and ensures the bites don’t overflow while cooking. Next, use a tablespoon to drop a dollop of the cream cheese mixture over the batter in each mold, creating a deliciously creamy center. Step 6: Top with More Batter Once the cream cheese filling is added, layer the remaining pumpkin batter on top of the cream cheese in each mold. This traps the filling inside and allows it to rise beautifully during cooking, producing perfectly balanced Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites that are both moist and creamy. Step 7: Swirl the Filling Using a toothpick or a skewer, gently swirl the cream cheese filling into the batter to create a marbled effect. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also distributes the creaminess throughout each pumpkin bite. Aim for a nice blend without fully incorporating the layers; a little swirl goes a long way! Step 8: Prepare the Instant Pot Pour a cup of water into the bottom of your Instant Pot, then insert the trivet. Carefully place your filled silicone molds on top of the trivet, ensuring they sit securely without touching the water. This setup allows for proper steam circulation while cooking, essential for the best Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites. Step 9: Cook Under Pressure Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook your pumpkin bites on High Pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow a natural steam release for 10 minutes to ensure they set properly before flipping the valve to release any remaining pressure. Step 10: Cool and Remove After releasing all steam, carefully remove the silicone molds from the Instant Pot. Let the Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites cool in the molds for a few minutes before gently turning them out onto a serving plate. Allow to cool slightly; they will firm up as they cool, making them easier to handle. Step 11: Optional Dusting For a finishing touch, dust your cooled Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a delightful sweetness and a touch of elegance, making them perfect for any gathering or cozy evening treat. Enjoy these bites that capture the essence of fall with every delicious morsel! Expert Tips for Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites Avoid Sogginess: Cover molds with silicone lids or foil to keep moisture in check during cooking, ensuring the bites stay fluffy. Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture to avoid tough bites; keep that light, airy texture for the best Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites. Experiment with Flavor: Add chocolate chips or nuts for a delightful twist; mix-ins can elevate the flavor profile and make each bite unique! Keep It Fresh: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain moisture and flavor; these bites are best enjoyed fresh but can last a few days. Perfect Portioning: Fill molds only halfway before adding the cream cheese filling to allow for proper rising and prevent overflow during cooking. How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites Fridge: Store the bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their delightful moisture and flavor. Freezer: To freeze, wrap each bite in parchment paper or place them in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring they’re well-sealed. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the pumpkin bites overnight in the fridge or leave them at room temperature for a few hours. Reheating: For the best experience, reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warm, preserving the soft texture of these Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites. Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and make these pumpkin bites your own with these exciting twists and swaps! Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese for vegan cream cheese, maintaining that creamy filling without dairy. Sweetness Level: Use maple syrup in place of honey and brown sugar for a vegan-friendly dessert that’s just as sweet. Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger to the batter for an extra warm spice kick that layers with the pumpkin flavor. Crunchy Texture: Incorporate chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for delightful surprises in every bite! Fruit-Filled: Replace the cream cheese filling with fruit preserves, like raspberry or apricot, for a tangy fruity variation that brightens the flavors. Cheesecake Twist: Crumble some gingersnap cookies into the bottom of the molds as a crust for a cheesecake-inspired version that brings textures together. Low-Calorie: Substitute vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce to reduce calories while keeping the pumpkin bites moist. Spicy Zing: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising heat level that works perfectly with the sweetness of the pumpkin. Enjoy experimenting with these variations, and consider pairing your pumpkin bites with my scrumptious Zucchini Garlic Bites for an appetizing feast! Make Ahead Options These Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pumpkin batter and the cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance by storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For best quality, cover the molds with foil or silicone lids to prevent moisture loss during storage. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful bites, simply fill the molds and proceed with the cooking instructions as outlined. A quick reminder: always allow the bites to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar for that elegant finish. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have delicious pumpkin bites ready with minimal effort on busy days! What to Serve with Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites Embrace the cozy vibes of fall by complementing these mini delights with perfect pairings that enhance their rich flavors. Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai harmonize beautifully with the pumpkin, creating a comforting drink for chilly evenings. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich creaminess of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the moist pumpkin bites, making each bite a sweet adventure. Candied Pecans: These crunchy treasures offer a sweet and nutty flavor that complements the softness of the pumpkin bites perfectly, adding a fun texture. Hot Apple Cider: Sipping on spiced apple cider elevates the seasonal experience, making it a delightful drink to pair with your pumpkin treats. Maple Glazed Carrots: These sweet, tender carrots bring a touch of earthiness, creating a lovely balance on your dessert table, especially during gatherings. Gingerbread Cookies: With their rich spices that echo the flavors of pumpkin, these cookies make an excellent nostalgic pairing that’s festive for any occasion. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A warm drizzle of caramel sauce over the pumpkin bites adds an indulgent touch that turns a simple dessert into something extraordinary. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the pumpkin bites beautifully, rounding out a cozy meal that feels both comforting and heartwarming. Dark Chocolate Coffee: The slight bitterness of dark chocolate coffee contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the bites, enhancing their pumpkin flavor. Pumpkin Pie Smoothie: For a playful twist, a pumpkin pie smoothie will enrich your dessert experience, bringing the classic flavors into a refreshing drink. Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites Recipe FAQs What type of pumpkin should I use? Absolutely! Canned pumpkin is perfect as it provides consistent flavor and moisture. However, if you prefer a homemade touch, using fresh pumpkin puree works beautifully as well. Just ensure the puree is smooth to mimic the consistency of canned pumpkin. How long can I store leftover pumpkin bites? You can store your Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll remain moist and delicious, perfect for snacking or dessert. Can I freeze pumpkin bites, and how? Yes, you can freeze these delightful bites for up to 3 months! First, wrap each pumpkin bite in parchment paper or place them into freezer-safe bags, making sure to remove excess air. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours. What should I do if my batter is too thick? If you find your batter thick, it’s likely due to over-measuring the dry ingredients. To remedy this, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you achieve the desired consistency—a thick but pourable batter is ideal for these Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Definitely! If cooking for those with dietary restrictions, feel free to adapt the recipe. Use flax eggs instead of chicken eggs for a vegan-friendly option, and substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative. Always check your ingredients for any allergens, especially when hosting gatherings. How can I enhance the flavor of the pumpkin bites? Very! You can add extra spices, like nutmeg or ginger, for depth, or consider mixing in chocolate chips or nuts. This not only boosts flavor but also provides delightful textures with every bite, making them even more irresistible. Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites: Cozy Fall Treats to Savor Irresistible Instant Pot Pumpkin Bites combine pumpkin's sweetness with a creamy filling, making them a must-try cozy fall treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 12 bitesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pumpkin Bites1 cup canned pumpkin or homemade pumpkin puree2 large eggs or flax eggs for vegan option1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil1/4 cup milk any dairy or non-dairy milk1/4 cup honey or maple syrup for vegan option1/4 cup brown sugar or substitute with maple syrup2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and gingerFor the Cream Cheese Filling8 ounces cream cheese or vegan cream cheese for dairy-free optionFor Cooking1 spray cooking spray ensure it's non-stick Equipment Instant PotMixing bowlssilicone moldshand mixer Method InstructionsPrepare the Cream Cheese Filling by mixing cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.Whisk the pumpkin batter with canned pumpkin, eggs, oil, milk, honey, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice.Combine dry ingredients into the wet pumpkin mixture, being careful not to overmix.Grease the silicone molds with cooking spray to prevent sticking.Fill the molds halfway with pumpkin batter, then add a dollop of cream cheese filling.Top with remaining pumpkin batter to cover the cream cheese filling.Gently swirl the filling into the batter for a marbled effect.Prepare the Instant Pot with a cup of water and place the molds on the trivet.Cook under pressure for 10 minutes and allow a natural steam release for 10 minutes.Carefully remove and let the Pumpkin Bites cool before serving.Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1biteCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 2gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 95mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 3500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore leftover bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days; they can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
