Air Fryer Recipe: Autumn Harvest Pizza Bites
Air Fryer Autumn Harvest Pizza Bites
Imagine this: A subtly sweet and vibrant pumpkin-infused dough, air-fried to a delightful crispness, topped with a savoury and slightly smoky bacon mixture elevated with unexpected pops of flavour and texture. These Autumn Harvest Pizza Bites offer a unique twist on a classic, perfect for a cozy snack or light meal.
Yields: Approximately 12-15 small bites
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Pumpkin Dough:
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 2-3 tablespoons water
For the Savoury Bacon Topping:
- 4 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1/4 cup finely diced apple (such as Honey-crisp or Fuji)
- 2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese (or cream cheese)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions:
1. Make the Pumpkin Dough:
- In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, flour, sage, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. It should be slightly tacky but manageable.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for 3-4 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
2. Prepare the Savoury Bacon Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, diced apple, crumbled goat cheese, chopped chives, maple syrup, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
3. Shape and Bake the Pizza Bases:
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
- Divide the pumpkin dough into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
- On a lightly floured surface, flatten each ball into a small, thin disc (about 3-4 inches). You can use your fingers or a small rolling pin.
- Carefully place the dough discs in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary, ensuring they don't overlap.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the bases are set.
4. Add the Topping and Finish:
- Carefully remove the partially baked pizza bases from the air fryer.
- Spoon the savoury bacon mixture evenly over each base.
- Return the pizza bites to the air fryer and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the topping is heated through and the edges are nicely browned.
5. Serve and Savour:
- Let the Autumn Harvest Pizza Bites cool slightly before serving. They are delicious warm, allowing the flavours to meld together.
Why it tastes so good: This recipe is a delightful play on sweet and savoury. The pumpkin dough offers a subtle sweetness and a tender chewiness that complements the salty, smoky bacon. The diced apple introduces a refreshing crispness and a touch of fruity sweetness, while the creamy goat cheese adds a tangy richness. The fresh chives provide a mild oniony bite, and the drizzle of maple syrup ties everything together with a hint of autumnal warmth. Each bite is a complex yet harmonious explosion of textures and flavours that is both comforting and exciting.