These Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders are such a fun and festive way to enjoy a classic favorite! Soft slider buns are shaped like little pumpkins, and inside you’ll find juicy mini burgers with all the toppings you love. The cute pumpkin look makes them perfect for fall get-togethers or Halloween parties.
I love making these sliders because they bring a smile to everyone’s face, especially kids. It’s a simple twist on a regular slider, but shaping the buns into pumpkins makes the whole meal feel special. If you want a little extra fun, I like to add some cheddar “leaves” or use small pretzel sticks for the pumpkin stems.
These are best served warm with a side of crispy fries or some fresh veggies. I find they’re perfect for sharing and go great with a cold drink on a cool autumn evening. Making these pumpkin-shaped sliders has become one of my favorite ways to celebrate the season with family and friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour & Yeast: This combo is essential for soft, fluffy pumpkin buns. Instant dry yeast is quick and easy. No instant yeast? Use active dry yeast but dissolve it in warm milk first.
Ground Chicken: It’s lean and tender for juicy sliders. Turkey or a mix of chicken and pork also work well if you want different flavors.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds creaminess and melts perfectly inside the patties. Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder melt, or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Sesame Seeds & Pumpkin Stem: Seeds give the buns a nice look and crunch. If you don’t have dried pumpkin stems, small pretzel sticks or rosemary sprigs are fun and edible alternatives for pumpkin tops.
How Do You Shape the Perfect Pumpkin Buns?
Shaping the buns so they look like pumpkins is key for this recipe. Use kitchen twine to make segmented lines around the dough balls. Here’s how:
- Roll the dough into smooth balls.
- Wrap twine around each ball vertically 4-5 times, tying the ends firmly—but not too tight, so the dough can rise.
- Bake the buns with twine on to create indentations.
- Remove twine right after baking to avoid marks sticking to the buns.
- Insert a small dried stem or pretzel stick in the center for the pumpkin “stem.”
This technique gives your buns that real pumpkin shape and makes your sliders extra festive. Take your time wrapping the twine—it’s easier if the dough is slightly tacky but not sticky.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – perfect for combining dough and mixing chicken patties easily.
- Stand or hand mixer with dough hook – makes kneading the bun dough quicker and less tiring.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – helps buns bake evenly and prevents sticking.
- Kitchen twine – essential for shaping buns into pumpkin segments.
- Nonstick skillet or frying pan – cooks the chicken patties evenly without sticking.
- Wire rack – cools buns so bottoms don’t get soggy after baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground chicken for ground turkey or beef for a richer slider flavor.
- Add finely chopped mushrooms or spinach to the patties for extra moisture and nutrition.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar to add a little spicy kick to your sliders.
- Top sliders with caramelized onions or crispy bacon for a more indulgent taste.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – for combining dough and mixing chicken patties.
- Stand mixer with dough hook or hand mixer – helpful for kneading the bun dough smoothly.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – keeps buns from sticking and bakes them evenly.
- Kitchen twine – essential to wrap around the dough balls to create pumpkin-like segments.
- Nonstick skillet or frying pan – to cook the chicken patties evenly without sticking.
- Wire rack – to cool the buns so they don’t get soggy on the bottom.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy with ingredients.
- Pastry brush – to brush egg wash on the buns before baking for a shiny surface.
Variations to Try
- Meat Swap: Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for varied melting textures and flavors.
- Veggie Boost: Mix finely chopped mushrooms, spinach, or shredded carrots into the patties for extra nutrition and moisture.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the meat mixture for some heat.
- Toppings: Add caramelized onions, crispy bacon, sliced pickles, or avocado for flavor twists.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based ground meat and vegan cheese, and make buns with plant-based milk and butter.
Can I Use Store-Bought Slider Buns Instead of Making Pumpkin Buns?
Yes, you can definitely use store-bought slider buns for convenience! While you won’t get the pumpkin shape, you can still toast and assemble the sliders with the same delicious filling and toppings.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave, and add a little moisture like a damp paper towel in the microwave to keep the buns soft.
Can I Make the Buns in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape the buns a day ahead, then refrigerate them covered overnight. Bring them to room temperature before baking for best results.
What If I Don’t Have Kitchen Twine to Shape the Buns?
No worries! You can gently score the dough balls with a knife before baking to create “segments” or simply bake regular round buns and add pumpkin stems with pretzel sticks for a festive touch.
