
COURSE:
Snack, Starter
Pumpkin-Shaped Mozzarella Buns: Festive, Cheesy, and Perfect for Autumn
Get into the autumn spirit with these adorable Pumpkin-Shaped Mozzarella Buns! These festive buns are filled with gooey mozzarella and shaped to resemble mini pumpkins, making them the perfect addition to any seasonal spread. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween gathering, a cosy autumn dinner, or just want a fun baking project, these buns offer a delightful twist that combines savoury cheese with a soft, pillowy bun.
Making these buns is as enjoyable as eating them. Start by preparing a simple dough and tucking a cube of mozzarella inside each bun. With a bit of string or careful scoring, you can shape the dough to achieve that iconic pumpkin look. After baking in the Instant Pot or oven, these buns emerge perfectly golden and filled with melty mozzarella that’s sure to delight with every bite. A little brush of butter and sprinkle of herbs or sea salt on top adds a touch of flavour and makes them even more irresistible.
These Pumpkin-Shaped Mozzarella Buns are versatile enough to be served as appetisers, side dishes, or a fun snack on their own. With their charming appearance and delicious, cheesy centre, they’re bound to be a hit with both kids and adults. Enjoy the warmth and fun of autumn with these tasty, festive treats!
Pumpkin-Shaped Mozzarella Buns
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
5 minutes
Servings:
4
Product:
Vortex Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 24 mini mozzarella balls
- 1 croissant dough sheet
- 24 pretzel sticks
- ¾ cup marinara sauce, for serving
- Kitchen twine, as needed
Instructions
- Spread the dough sheet on a cutting board. Cut the dough into 24 even squares.
- Place a mozzarella ball in the center of each square. Fold the corners around the ball and pinch to close. Gently roll the ball in your hands to ensure all seams are closed.
- Cut three even strands of kitchen twine about 12cm long. Place one on the cutting board, then another on top in a crisscross fashion about 1/3 to the right, and then top with the last one further 1/3 to the right, creating a wheel with spokes. Place the dough-covered mozzarella ball in the center of the strings. Firmly tie each string over the top of the center of the ball. Cut off any excess string and repeat as necessary.
- Place the balls in the air fryer basket, careful to not overcrowd the basket. Air Fry at 175°C for 4-6 Minutes, or until golden brown. Overcook, and the mozzarella will burst through the dough. Repeat air frying as necessary with remaining mozzarella balls.
- Using a knife or kitchen scissors, carefully snip away all the strings. Stick a small pretzel stick in the center of each ball to look like a stem. Serve warm or room temperature with the marinara sauce.

Pumpkin-Shaped Mozzarella Buns
COURSE:
Snack, Starter
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
5 minutes
Servings:
4
Product:
Vortex Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 24 mini mozzarella balls
- 1 croissant dough sheet
- 24 pretzel sticks
- ¾ cup marinara sauce, for serving
- Kitchen twine, as needed
Instructions
- Spread the dough sheet on a cutting board. Cut the dough into 24 even squares.
- Place a mozzarella ball in the center of each square. Fold the corners around the ball and pinch to close. Gently roll the ball in your hands to ensure all seams are closed.
- Cut three even strands of kitchen twine about 12cm long. Place one on the cutting board, then another on top in a crisscross fashion about 1/3 to the right, and then top with the last one further 1/3 to the right, creating a wheel with spokes. Place the dough-covered mozzarella ball in the center of the strings. Firmly tie each string over the top of the center of the ball. Cut off any excess string and repeat as necessary.
- Place the balls in the air fryer basket, careful to not overcrowd the basket. Air Fry at 175°C for 4-6 Minutes, or until golden brown. Overcook, and the mozzarella will burst through the dough. Repeat air frying as necessary with remaining mozzarella balls.
- Using a knife or kitchen scissors, carefully snip away all the strings. Stick a small pretzel stick in the center of each ball to look like a stem. Serve warm or room temperature with the marinara sauce.
Pumpkin-Shaped Mozzarella Buns: Festive, Cheesy, and Perfect for Autumn
Get into the autumn spirit with these adorable Pumpkin-Shaped Mozzarella Buns! These festive buns are filled with gooey mozzarella and shaped to resemble mini pumpkins, making them the perfect addition to any seasonal spread. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween gathering, a cosy autumn dinner, or just want a fun baking project, these buns offer a delightful twist that combines savoury cheese with a soft, pillowy bun.
Making these buns is as enjoyable as eating them. Start by preparing a simple dough and tucking a cube of mozzarella inside each bun. With a bit of string or careful scoring, you can shape the dough to achieve that iconic pumpkin look. After baking in the Instant Pot or oven, these buns emerge perfectly golden and filled with melty mozzarella that’s sure to delight with every bite. A little brush of butter and sprinkle of herbs or sea salt on top adds a touch of flavour and makes them even more irresistible.
These Pumpkin-Shaped Mozzarella Buns are versatile enough to be served as appetisers, side dishes, or a fun snack on their own. With their charming appearance and delicious, cheesy centre, they’re bound to be a hit with both kids and adults. Enjoy the warmth and fun of autumn with these tasty, festive treats!

