Pin It A bold and flavorful appetizer, Flamin Hot Spicy Pumpkin Biscuit Balls feature tender pumpkin biscuit dough rolled into spicy balls and finished with a crunchy, Flamin Hot coating that’s perfect for parties or game day snacks.
I first made these on a Sunday afternoon for a football watch party, and they disappeared so fast that I barely saved a couple for myself. There’s something about the combination of creamy pumpkin and fiery Flamin Hot crunch that makes everyone go back for seconds.
Ingredients
- Dough: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (cold, cubed), 1 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling), 1/4 cup whole milk, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Coating: 2 cups Flamin Hot cheese-flavored corn snack crumbs (e.g., Flamin Hot Cheetos, crushed), 1 large egg, 2 tbsp milk
- Optional Dip: 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives, pinch smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Add Butter:
- Add cold, cubed butter and cut in with a pastry blender or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Stir in pumpkin purée, milk, and cheddar cheese until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Prepare Coating Stations:
- In a shallow bowl, beat the egg with 2 tbsp milk. Place Flamin Hot snack crumbs in another shallow bowl.
- Form Balls:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls (about 1.5 inches in diameter).
- Coat Balls:
- Dip each dough ball into the egg mixture, then roll in Flamin Hot crumbs to coat completely.
- Bake:
- Arrange coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Prepare Dip (Optional):
- While baking, mix sour cream, chives, and smoked paprika for the dip if using.
- Serve:
- Let biscuit balls cool slightly before serving with the dip.
Pin It These biscuit balls showed up at our family’s Halloween party and became an instant favorite. Everyone loved dipping them in the chive sour cream, and kids had fun guessing the secret spicy ingredient.
Variations & Swaps
Swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese, or add a finely chopped jalapeño to the dough for even more heat. For a milder version, reduce the cayenne or use regular snack crumbs.
Serving Ideas
Serve these hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or classic sour cream. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a game day snack platter.
Nutrition & Allergens
Each biscuit ball contains about 120 calories. This recipe includes wheat (gluten), milk, and eggs—check all packaged snack ingredient lists for other allergens.
Pin It Make these spicy pumpkin bites for your next gathering—the vibrant color and bold flavor always steal the show!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What ingredients give these biscuit balls their spicy flavor?
Cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder provide the heat, while Flamin Hot snack crumbs add extra kick.
- → Can I make the coating without Flamin Hot snacks?
Yes, you can substitute other spicy cheese-flavored snacks or crush up spicy tortilla chips for a similar effect.
- → What’s the best cheese option for the dough?
Sharp cheddar gives robust flavor, but pepper jack or a spicy blend can add even more depth and heat.
- → How do I achieve a crispy texture?
Ensure biscuit balls are evenly coated and bake at 400°F until golden and crisp for optimal crunch.
- → Can these be made ahead of time?
You can prepare and coat the dough balls in advance, refrigerate, then bake when ready. Best served warm.
- → Are there dietary concerns to note?
They contain wheat, dairy, and eggs. Always check snack ingredient labels for potential allergens.