Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I discovered a golden-brown batch of sliders emerging from the oven, the aroma of autumn spices whisked me away to cozy family gatherings and Halloween festivities. These Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders are more than just a cute party trick; they’re a delightful addition to your fall table that will charm both young and old alike. Each fluffy roll, resembling a whimsical pumpkin, can be customized with an array of savory fillings that cater to every palate—from tangy BBQ chicken to creamy pumpkin hummus. Not only do they bring a festive flair to any gathering, but they’re also incredibly simple to whip up, making them a great choice for a stress-free entertaining experience. Curious about how to create these adorable bites and elevate your autumn gatherings? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why are Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders a Must-Try? Festive Presentation: These sliders aren’t just delicious; they’re shaped like pumpkins! Perfect for adding charm to any fall event. Versatile Fillings: Choose from savory meats, roasted veggies, or even sweet spreads—there’s something for everyone! Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip these up without any stress, even if you’re short on time. Crowd-Pleaser: Their adorable look and mouthwatering taste make them a hit at parties, ensuring your guests leave satisfied. Perfect for Celebrations: Great for Halloween or Thanksgiving, these sliders capture the essence of autumn and bring joy to your table. Serve them with pumpkin soup or fall salads for a complete meal that perfectly complements the season! Pumpkin-Shaped Slider Ingredients For the Dough • Dinner Roll Dough – Use store-bought options like Rhodes or King’s Hawaiian for convenience. • Olive Oil – A light brushing before baking gives the sliders a beautiful sheen. • Egg (beaten) – An egg wash adds a shiny finish that enhances the golden color. For the Shape • Butcher’s Twine – Helps create the adorable pumpkin shape; oil it lightly to prevent sticking. For Decoration • Pretzel Sticks/Celery Stems – Add these for a fun “stem” after baking, enhancing the festive look. For the Fillings • Turkey – Pair with cranberry sauce & Swiss cheese for a sweet-savory combo. • Pulled BBQ Chicken – This filling brings a rich and tangy taste that’s sure to please. • Ham – Combine with honey mustard for a classic and crowd-friendly option. • Roasted Veggies – Mix with pumpkin hummus for a delectable vegetarian choice. • Buffalo Chicken – Add a ranch drizzle for a spicy and flavorful twist. • Cranberry Cream Cheese – This filling creates a sweet-tart delight with peppery arugula. These Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders are not just beautiful to look at; their versatile fillings make them suitable for any autumn gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders Step 1: Thaw & Prepare the Dough Begin by removing your dinner roll dough from the freezer and allow it to thaw at room temperature for about 2 hours until soft and pliable. Once thawed, set the dough in a warm place for an additional 30 minutes, letting it rise slightly to create that fluffy texture that will make your Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders irresistible. Step 2: Shape with Butcher’s Twine Once the dough is ready, cut 4-5 pieces of lightly oiled butcher’s twine, each about 12 inches long. Take a piece of dough and form it into a ball, then wrap the twine around the ball loosely, creating sections that mimic the shape of a pumpkin. Make sure to leave some space between the twine to allow the dough to expand while baking for that adorable pumpkin look. Step 3: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting for the oven to reach temperature, arrange the tied dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave enough space between each dough ball to expand. This is a great time to brush the tops with a bit of olive oil, ensuring a beautiful golden sheen when your Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders come out of the oven. Step 4: Apply Egg Wash Once your oven is preheated, take a beaten egg and brush it over the tops of the dough balls for that shiny finish. This step enhances the color as they bake, making your Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders look even more festive. Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, monitoring closely until the rolls are a rich, golden brown. Step 5: Cool & Remove Twine After baking, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes. This cooling period ensures they set properly. As they cool, gently snip away the butcher’s twine with scissors, being careful not to squish the pumpkin shape. The aroma will be heavenly! Step 6: Prepare the Stems For that final festive touch, take pretzel sticks or celery stems to insert into the tops of each slider. This will give each of your Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders an adorable “stem” that enhances their pumpkin-like appearance. It’s a simple but effective way to elevate the presentation! Step 7: Slice & Fill To finish, slice each slider in half, keeping the adorable pumpkin shape intact. Now, it’s time to fill them with your favorites! Choose from savory options like pulled BBQ chicken with cheddar or roast veggies with pumpkin hummus. Load each one generously and close it up to serve up these heartwarming Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders that will brighten up any gathering. Make Ahead Options These Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply shape the sliders and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat your oven and bake directly from the fridge, adding an extra 5 minutes if needed. Alternatively, you can bake the sliders fully and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days; simply reheat in the oven before serving to maintain their fluffy texture. This approach lets you enjoy the delightful flavors of your Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders with minimal effort on the day of your gathering! Storage Tips for Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders Room Temperature: Enjoy unfilled sliders within 2 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their soft texture. Fridge: If you have filled sliders, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Store in an airtight container to retain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled sliders for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: Reheat filled sliders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or until heated through, to restore that delightful softness in your Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders. Expert Tips for Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders Thawing Tip: Ensure the dough is completely thawed and slightly risen for easy shaping. Cold dough makes it hard to achieve that adorable pumpkin form. Twine Technique: Wrap the butcher’s twine loosely around the rolls to avoid compressing them. Tight wrapping will hinder the dough’s expansion during baking. Watch the Color: Keep a close eye on baking time; overbaking can lead to a dry texture. You’re aiming for a rich golden brown for those delightful Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders. Snip Carefully: Use sharp scissors to snip the twine after baking to maintain the pumpkin shape. Pressing too hard can flatten your sliders. Make Ahead: Pre-bake the rolls and refrigerate them unfilled. Add fillings just before serving for the freshest taste at your autumn gatherings. What to Serve with Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders Elevate your autumn gatherings with delightful pairings that enhance the cozy flavors of these whimsical sliders. Creamy Pumpkin Soup: This rich, velvety soup adds a warm and comforting element that complements the sliders beautifully, perfect for fall. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with cranberries and toasted pecans offers a crunchy contrast to the soft sliders, creating a light balance. Baked Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet and savory, these fries bring a satisfying crunch and a hint of seasonal sweetness that pairs wonderfully with any filling. Apple Cider: A glass of warm spiced apple cider brings a festive touch, enhancing the autumn atmosphere with its sweet and spicy notes. Caramelized Onion Dip: Serve this rich, creamy dip alongside your sliders for a sumptuous flavor combo that guests will love. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Elevate your drink offering with this classic fall beverage, bringing warmth and spice to your festive table. Each of these pairings highlights the cozy allure of pumpkin-shaped sliders, ensuring a memorable autumn feast! Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with your sliders and make them your own with these delightful twists! Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional dough for gluten-free dinner roll dough to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Seasonal Fillings: Experiment with autumn-inspired fillings like roasted butternut squash or turkey stuffing for a festive touch. The seasonal ingredients will elevate the flavor, making your sliders even more enticing. Cheese Variety: Swap in different cheeses such as creamy goat cheese or sharp cheddar for a unique taste experience everyone will love. Vegan Option: Use plant-based fillings like smashed avocado with spicy salsa for a hearty vegan alternative that packs a punch. Sweet Twist: Try a sweet potato and marshmallow filling for a dessert version that surprises your guests at the end of the meal. It’s a nostalgic treat that channels holiday memories! Heat Factor: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to your fillings for an exciting kick that will awaken your taste buds. Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough or fillings for an aromatic flavor profile that screams fall. Explore these variations and don’t hesitate to pair your sliders with a comforting pumpkin soup or fall salad for a delightful autumnal feast! Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders Recipe FAQs How do I select the right dough for my sliders? Absolutely! For the fluffiest and most flavorful sliders, I recommend using enriched dinner roll dough—store-bought varieties like Rhodes or King’s Hawaiian are perfect. They save you time and provide a soft, airy texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, there are gluten-free dinner roll mixes available that can yield delightful results too. What is the best way to store Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders? For unfilled sliders, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep them soft. If you’re filling them, refrigerate the sliders in an airtight container for up to 5 days. It’s best to consume them fresh, but feel free to reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes to restore that warm, fluffy texture. Can I freeze Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders? Yes, you can! To freeze unfilled sliders, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them straight from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through! What should I do if the sliders don’t hold their shape after baking? Don’t worry! It can happen, and there are a couple of tips to ensure they maintain that adorable pumpkin shape. First, when wrapping with butcher’s twine, make sure it’s not too tight, allowing the dough to rise and expand while baking. Secondly, make sure you’re monitoring the baking time closely. If overbaked, the dough might lose its fluffy structure. Are these sliders suitable for dietary restrictions? Very much so! You can create gluten-free versions by swapping traditional dough for gluten-free dough options. Additionally, many of the suggested fillings can be tailored for specific diets—vegetarian or lower-calorie options are easily achievable. Always check ingredient labels to avoid allergens depending on your or your guests’ dietary needs. Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders: Festive, Fun, and Flavorful Bites Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders are delightful autumn-themed bites that combine festive presentation with versatile fillings, making them perfect for gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 2 hours hrsCook Time 20 minutes minsRising Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 50 minutes mins Servings: 12 slidersCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough12 rolls Dinner Roll Dough Store-bought options like Rhodes or King’s Hawaiian1 tablespoon Olive Oil For brushing1 large Egg (beaten) For egg washFor the Shape4-5 pieces Butcher’s Twine Lightly oiledFor Decoration10 sticks Pretzel Sticks/Celery Stems For adding 'stems'For the Fillings1 cup Turkey Pair with cranberry sauce & Swiss cheese1 cup Pulled BBQ Chicken Rich and tangy filling1 cup Ham Combine with honey mustard1 cup Roasted Veggies Mix with pumpkin hummus1 cup Buffalo Chicken Add ranch drizzle1 cup Cranberry Cream Cheese Sweet-tart delight filling Equipment OvenBaking sheetParchment paperScissors Method Step-by-Step InstructionsThaw & Prepare the Dough: Remove dinner roll dough from freezer and let thaw at room temperature for about 2 hours. Once thawed, set in a warm place for an additional 30 minutes to rise slightly.Shape with Butcher’s Twine: Cut 4-5 pieces of oiled butcher's twine, each about 12 inches long. Form dough into a ball and wrap the twine around loosely, leaving space for dough expansion.Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange tied dough balls on a lined baking sheet, brush with olive oil.Apply Egg Wash: Brush tops of dough balls with beaten egg for a shiny finish. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.Cool & Remove Twine: Let sliders cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes, then gently snip away the twine.Prepare the Stems: Insert pretzel sticks or celery stems into the tops of each slider for a festive look.Slice & Fill: Slice each slider in half and fill with your favorite options like pulled BBQ chicken or roasted veggies. Nutrition Serving: 1sliderCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 7gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 4mgIron: 8mg NotesThese sliders are not only adorable but their diverse fillings make them great for any autumn event. Serve with pumpkin soup or fall salads for a complete meal. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!