Crispy and Savory Pumpkin Fritters

Featured in Finger Foods and Party Snacks.

These golden pumpkin fritters deliver the perfect contrast of textures - impossibly crispy and golden-brown on the outside while staying light and tender inside. Fresh butternut squash is grated and mixed with savory parmesan cheese, fragrant parsley, and just enough flour and egg to bind everything together. When fried until crisp, they develop a delicate crust that gives way to a soft, vegetable-packed interior that's surprisingly light. A sprinkle of sea salt right after frying makes all the flavors pop, creating an addictive snack or side dish that's equally welcome at casual gatherings or elegant dinner parties.
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Updated on Fri, 10 Jan 2025 20:41:35 GMT
A stack of golden-brown pumpkin fritters garnished with herbs, placed on a dark plate next to a small pumpkin. Pin it
A stack of golden-brown pumpkin fritters garnished with herbs, placed on a dark plate next to a small pumpkin. | quickierecipe.com

These Pumpkin Fritters are a delightful treat, combining a crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful interior. Perfect for a snack or as a side dish, they bring the warmth and comfort of pumpkin spice into every bite. Let's dive into the ingredients you'll need to create these tasty morsels.

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cups grated squash (I used butternut squash): This forms the base of the fritters, providing a sweet and earthy flavor.
  • ½ onion (chopped): Adds a savory depth to the fritters.
  • 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the fritters together.
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps to provide structure and crispiness.
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, savory flavor and aids in browning.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1-2 dashes hot pepper flakes or black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
  • ½-1 teaspoon parsley (or ½-1 tablespoon fresh chopped): Adds a fresh, herbal note.
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for frying, contributing to the fritters' crispy texture.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:
Grate the raw squash and pat it dry. Place it in a medium bowl, and add the chopped onion, egg, Parmesan cheese, flour, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix everything together until well combined. Form the mixture into patties or drop spoonfuls onto a plate, lightly flattening them with the back of the spoon.
Step 2:
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat. Fry the patties or spoonfuls in batches of three, cooking until they are browned on both sides. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 3:
Serve the fritters immediately while they are still warm. Enjoy the crispy exterior and soft interior of these flavorful treats!

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serve the fritters warm for the best texture and flavor.
  • Pair with a simple dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

  • Chef Jamie Oliver suggests adding a touch of garlic powder to the mixture for extra flavor.
  • Ina Garten recommends using freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
  • Gordon Ramsay advises making the patties uniform in size to ensure even cooking.

VARIATIONS

  • Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to customize the flavor.
  • Try adding shredded carrots or zucchini to the mixture for added nutrition and texture.
  • For a slightly sweeter option, mix in a tablespoon of maple syrup into the batter.

Pumpkin Fritters

Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these Pumpkin Fritters are a flavorful snack or side dish made with butternut squash and Parmesan cheese.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
25 Minutes
By: Meryem


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings (6 fritters)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 2 cups grated squash (I used butternut squash).
02 ½ onion (chopped).
03 1 large egg.
04 ¼ cup all-purpose flour.
05 ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese.
06 ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste).
07 1-2 dashes hot pepper flakes or black pepper.
08 ½-1 teaspoon parsley (½-1 tablespoon fresh chopped).
09 1-2 tablespoons olive oil.

Instructions

Step 01

Grate the raw pumpkin and pat dry. Place it in a medium bowl, add the chopped onion, egg, parmesan cheese, flour, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well, form into patties or drop by spoonfuls and lightly flatten with the back of the spoon. (I made 6).

Step 02

In a medium frying pan, add the olive oil and fry the patties or spoonfuls 3 at a time, until browned on both sides. Move to a paper towel-lined plate and serve immediately.

Notes

  1. The fritters can be served warm or at room temperature.
  2. Great as a side dish or a snack.

Tools You'll Need

  • Medium bowl.
  • Frying pan.
  • Paper towel.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 150
  • Total Fat: 8 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 12 g
  • Protein: 6 g