Air Fryer Pumpkin Falafel: Crispy, Spiced, and Perfectly Golden

Falafel has always been a street food favorite, with its crunchy exterior, soft interior, and irresistible blend of herbs and spices. But this version adds an autumn twist that makes it even more exciting. Air Fryer Pumpkin Falafel combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with chickpeas, garlic, onion, and warm spices, all crisped up beautifully in the air fryer.
These falafel are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of seasonal flavor. They make an excellent vegetarian main, a healthy snack, or a protein-packed addition to bowls, wraps, and salads. Thanks to the air fryer, you get all the crunch without the excess oil, making them lighter while still incredibly satisfying.

this Recipe

What Is Air Fryer Pumpkin Falafel?

Falafel is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans blended with herbs and spices, shaped into balls or patties, and fried until golden. This pumpkin variation uses mashed pumpkin along with chickpeas to create a unique twist. The pumpkin adds moisture, sweetness, and extra nutrition, while the air fryer keeps everything crisp without deep frying.
The result is falafel that is aromatic, golden, and slightly sweet with the familiar savory bite we all love. It is perfect for autumn but delicious enough to enjoy year round.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

Here’s why this pumpkin falafel recipe deserves a spot in your rotation:

• Crispy texture without deep frying thanks to the air fryer.
• Seasonal pumpkin flavor blended with warming spices.
• High in plant based protein and fiber.
• Versatile enough for wraps, bowls, salads, or dipping.
• Make ahead friendly and freezer friendly.

How Do They Taste?

Air Fryer Pumpkin Falafel has the best of both worlds. The outside is golden and crunchy, while the inside stays tender and moist. The pumpkin lends a subtle sweetness, balanced by garlic, onion, and bold spices like cumin and coriander. Fresh parsley brightens the flavor, and a squeeze of lemon juice ties it all together. When dipped in tahini sauce, garlic yogurt, or even spicy harissa, every bite is deeply satisfying.

Health & Ingredient Benefits

This falafel variation is not only delicious but also nourishing:

• Pumpkin is packed with vitamin A, antioxidants, and fiber.
• Chickpeas provide plant protein, iron, and slow digesting carbs.
• Parsley adds vitamin C and a fresh herbal note.
• Garlic and onion are immunity boosting ingredients.
• Air frying reduces oil while keeping things crispy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas (or canned, rinsed and drained)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ½ small onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves
• ½ cup fresh parsley leaves
• ½ cup breadcrumbs or chickpea flour (adjust for texture)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon baking powder

Tools You’ll Need

• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Air fryer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Optional Substitutions & Additions

• Use sweet potato instead of pumpkin for a similar flavor.
• Swap parsley with cilantro for a different herbal kick.
• Add chili flakes for spice.
• Make them gluten free with chickpea flour instead of breadcrumbs.
• Serve with tahini, tzatziki, or spicy sriracha yogurt sauce.

How to Make Air Fryer Pumpkin Falafel

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, pumpkin, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Pulse until the mixture is well blended but not completely smooth.
2. Stir in breadcrumbs or chickpea flour until the mixture holds together.
3. Scoop small portions and shape into balls or patties.
4. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush or spray falafel with olive oil.
5. Place falafel in a single layer in the basket and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
6. Serve warm with lemon wedges and dipping sauce.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Pumpkin Falafel

These falafel are versatile and pair with many sides:

• Stuff into pita bread with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and tahini.
• Serve over a quinoa or rice bowl with roasted vegetables.
• Add to a salad with feta and olives.
• Pair with hummus and flatbread for a mezze platter.
• Dip into garlic yogurt, tzatziki, or tahini sauce.

Tips for Success

• Do not over blend the falafel mixture; some texture is best.
• If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs or flour.
• Chill the mixture for 20 minutes before shaping to help bind.
• Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.
• Brush with a little oil for maximum crispiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using pumpkin pie filling instead of plain pumpkin puree.
• Overcooking, which can dry out the falafel.
• Skipping baking powder, which helps lighten the texture.
• Overcrowding the air fryer basket.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze uncooked falafel patties on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Cook straight from frozen, adding 3 to 4 minutes.
• Reheat cooked falafel in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake them instead of air frying? Yes, bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping once.
Can I make them ahead? Yes, prepare the mixture and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Are they vegan? Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan.
Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, just make sure it is plain pumpkin puree.

Nutritional Info (approximate per serving, 4 servings)

• Calories: 240
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 9g
• Sodium: 320mg

Conclusion

Air Fryer Pumpkin Falafel is a creative, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy falafel with a seasonal twist. Crispy outside, tender inside, and bursting with flavor, these little patties are versatile enough to serve in wraps, bowls, salads, or as appetizers. They are plant based, protein rich, and easy to make ahead, making them perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Once you try them, you will see why this recipe has become a favorite among falafel lovers looking for something new.

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August 27, 2025 by Melissa