If you’re searching for a delightful snack that captures the cozy flavors of autumn in a bite-sized treat, you’ve got to try this Pumpkin Yogurt Bites Recipe. These little gems combine the creamy richness of pumpkin and Greek yogurt with warm spices and a crunchy gingersnap crust, all topped with a luscious caramel drizzle. They’re perfectly balanced, bursting with flavor, and just the right size for a sweet pick-me-up that won’t leave you feeling weighed down. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or wanting a nourishing dessert to enjoy any day, these pumpkin yogurt bites are a wonderful way to celebrate the season’s best ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pumpkin Yogurt Bites Recipe is a breeze to put together thanks to a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role—creating the creamy texture, warm spices, and that signature gingersnap crunch that makes these bites irresistible.
- 15-oz can pumpkin puree: The heart of the recipe, bringing smooth pumpkin flavor and moisture.
- 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang while keeping it light.
- 3.5-oz butterscotch pudding mix (cook and serve): Gives the filling a luscious sweetness and thick texture.
- Ground nutmeg, ⅛ tsp: Adds a gentle warmth and nutty aroma.
- Ground ginger, ½ tsp: Gives a slight zing that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- Cinnamon, 1 tsp: The classic spice that brings comforting depth.
- Ground cloves, ⅛ tsp: A tiny pinch for subtle, complex spice notes.
- 2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs: Creates a crunchy, flavorful crust with that spicy-sweet snap.
- 4 Tbsp melted butter: Binds the crust crumbs together for structure and richness.
- 2 Tbsp caramel sauce: The finishing touch that adds sticky sweetness and visual appeal.
How to Make Pumpkin Yogurt Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
Start by warming the pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, and butterscotch pudding mix in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently so nothing sticks or burns. After about 10 minutes, the mixture will thicken nicely and smell heavenly. Remove it from the heat and gently fold in the nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Set this spiced, creamy filling aside to cool and let the flavors meld together.
Step 2: Make the Gingersnap Crust
While the filling cools, crush the gingersnap cookies into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor for quick results or place the cookies in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin, which is a fun way to rally help from the kids. Mix the cookie crumbs with melted butter until everything is lightly moistened and holds together loosely when pressed. This will become your perfectly spiced crust.
Step 3: Assemble the Bites
Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease each well thoroughly to prevent sticking. Press a generous amount of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up halfway along the sides of each muffin cup, creating a cozy crust that will hold the pumpkin filling. Spoon the pumpkin mixture evenly into each crust-lined cup, spreading it gently to the top edge without breaking the crust. This layering leads to the perfect bite with balanced texture.
Step 4: Chill and Finish
Place your filled muffin tin into the refrigerator for about an hour, allowing the bites to set and chill. This resting time is key to firm up the filling while keeping everything cool and refreshing. When the bites are ready, drizzle the tops generously with caramel sauce for that irresistible finishing touch that adds sweetness and a delightful stickiness on every nibble.
How to Serve Pumpkin Yogurt Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate your Pumpkin Yogurt Bites Recipe to impressive heights. Try topping each bite with a sprinkle of crushed toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon for extra flavor and texture. A small dollop of whipped cream can also add a luscious, creamy crown that invites everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
These bites shine as a snack or dessert but pair beautifully with complementary sides. A warm spiced apple cider or a cup of chai tea brings out the warming spices and makes for a cozy fall spread. Fresh fruit such as sliced pears or crisp apple wedges also brighten the plate, balancing the richness of the bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider arranging the Pumpkin Yogurt Bites Recipe on a rustic wooden board surrounded by seasonal leaves and mini pumpkins to create an inviting autumn display. You can also serve them in mini mason jars with layers of granola and extra yogurt for a parfait-style treat. Presentation makes the experience even more joyful and fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and you just might), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled ensures the filling stays firm and fresh while the crust remains pleasantly crisp. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent absorbing fridge odors.
Freezing
These pumpkin yogurt bites freeze remarkably well. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight to maintain the ideal texture.
Reheating
While these bites are best served chilled, if you prefer them slightly warmed, pop them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave as it can make the crust soggy and affect the pudding consistency. Warming just enough can bring out the spices and caramel aroma beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
It’s best to use plain pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Using puree allows you to control the sweetness and spice balance in your Pumpkin Yogurt Bites Recipe perfectly.
Is nonfat Greek yogurt necessary, or can I use regular yogurt?
Nonfat Greek yogurt adds thickness and tanginess without extra fat, which helps keep the filling light. However, you can substitute regular yogurt if you prefer—just expect a slightly softer texture and richer taste.
Can I make these bites dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt alternative like coconut or almond yogurt, and use a dairy-free butter substitute for the crust. Make sure the butterscotch pudding mix and caramel sauce are also dairy-free or find suitable alternatives.
How long will the Pumpkin Yogurt Bites Recipe keep in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Beyond that, texture and flavor might start to decline, so it’s best to enjoy them sooner rather than later.
Can I use a different cookie for the crust instead of gingersnaps?
Definitely! While gingersnaps add signature spice and crunch, you can experiment with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or even cinnamon cookies for a different twist that still complements the pumpkin filling.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Pumpkin Yogurt Bites Recipe a try—it combines so many wonderful flavors and textures in just a handful of ingredients and simple steps. These bites are perfect for celebrating the cozy spirit of fall any day of the week, and once you taste them, I bet they’ll become a fast favorite in your kitchen too. Enjoy every creamy, spiced, caramel-drizzled bite!
PrintPumpkin Yogurt Bites Recipe
Delightfully creamy and spiced pumpkin yogurt bites with a crunchy gingersnap crust, topped with a luscious caramel drizzle. These no-bake treats are perfect for autumn snacking or as a festive dessert.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 15-oz can pumpkin puree (425 g)
- 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt (227 g)
- 1 3.5-oz pkg butterscotch pudding mix (99 g), cook and serve variety
- ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg (0.5 g)
- ½ tsp ground ginger (1 g)
- 1 tsp cinnamon (2.5 g)
- ⅛ tsp ground cloves (0.5 g)
Crust
- 2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs (300 g)
- 4 Tbsp butter, melted (60 g)
Topping
- 2 Tbsp caramel sauce (or enough to thoroughly drizzle)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the pumpkin puree, nonfat Greek yogurt, and butterscotch pudding mix. Place over medium heat and stir frequently. Cook the mixture for about 10 minutes until well combined and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the ground nutmeg, ground ginger, cinnamon, and ground cloves. Set aside to cool.
- Make the crust: Using a food processor, crush the gingersnap cookies into fine crumbs. Alternatively, place the cookies in a plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin until fine. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and mix in the melted butter. Press the mixture loosely together; it should just hold when pressed.
- Form crust bases: Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease the wells thoroughly. Spoon a generous amount of the crumb mixture into each muffin well. Using clean fingers, firmly press the crumb mixture to line the bottom and halfway up the sides of each well, creating a sturdy crust shell.
- Add the filling: Carefully spoon a dollop of the pumpkin filling into each crust-lined well. Gently spread the filling evenly so it reaches the top of the muffin paper, taking care not to break the crust walls.
- Chill the bites: Place the filled muffin tin in the refrigerator and chill for about 1 hour to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve with topping: Before serving, drizzle each pumpkin yogurt bite generously with caramel sauce. Enjoy these creamy, spiced bites as a delightful snack or dessert.
Notes
- For a richer taste, substitute nonfat Greek yogurt with full-fat Greek yogurt.
- Ensure the butterscotch pudding mix is the cook-and-serve type as it thickens properly in the filling.
- Gingersnap crumbs can be homemade by baking and crushing gingersnap cookies if unavailable pre-made.
- Keep the bites refrigerated until serving to maintain their shape and freshness.
- These bites are perfect for make-ahead dessert trays or holiday gatherings.
