Pumpkin-Sage Biscuits with Honey Butter

There’s something truly magical about the flavors of fall wrapped up in a warm, flaky biscuit. These Pumpkin-Sage Biscuits with Honey Butter bring together the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, the herbaceous kick of fresh sage, and the comforting warmth of classic fall spices. Paired with a luscious honey butter, these biscuits transform a simple meal into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re serving them alongside your favorite stew or enjoying them fresh from the oven for breakfast, these biscuits are a cozy treat that deserves a spot on your seasonal menu.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Pumpkin-Sage Biscuits with Honey Butter are a delightful twist on the traditional biscuit. The addition of pumpkin puree not only adds moisture and tenderness but also infuses a subtle sweetness and vibrant color that is perfect for autumn and winter tables. Fresh sage elevates the flavor profile with its aromatic, slightly peppery notes, balancing the sweetness with an herbal depth. The honey butter topping is the finishing touch — creamy, sweet, and just the right amount of richness.

These biscuits are incredibly versatile: serve them with savory dishes like roasted chicken or a hearty soup, or enjoy them with a drizzle of honey for a sweet breakfast treat. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings or cozy weekend baking sessions. If you’re a fan of comforting baked goods with a seasonal spin, these biscuits will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Your Shopping Guide

• All-purpose flour – The base for your biscuits, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• Baking powder and baking soda – Essential leaveners that ensure your biscuits rise with a fluffy texture.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger – Classic fall spices that bring warmth and depth to the dough.
• Unsalted butter – Used cold and cubed in the dough for flaky layers, and softened to make the honey butter.
• Pumpkin puree – Choose 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and texture.
• Buttermilk – Adds acidity and moisture, helping activate the baking soda and tenderize the biscuits.
• Fresh sage – Look for bright green leaves with no wilting, finely chopped to distribute evenly throughout the dough.
• Honey – For the honey butter, choose your favorite variety for natural sweetness and floral notes.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Pastry cutter or fork – To cut butter into the flour mixture for flaky layers.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy is key for perfect biscuit texture.
• Baking sheet – For baking the biscuits evenly.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier.
• Whisk – For mixing wet ingredients smoothly.
• Cooling rack – To cool biscuits without sogginess.

Pumpkin-Sage Biscuits with Honey Butter: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger. These spices will infuse your biscuits with that signature fall flavor.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add 1/4 cup cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or forks, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter. This is what creates the flaky texture in your biscuits.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup pumpkin puree and 1/2 cup buttermilk until smooth. Stir in 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to the dough.

Step 5: Bring the Dough Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a slightly shaggy dough is perfect.

Step 6: Shape and Cut

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out biscuits, pressing straight down without twisting to ensure even rise. Gather scraps, gently press together, and cut more biscuits.

Step 7: Bake

Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.

Step 8: Make the Honey Butter

While the biscuits bake, combine 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter with 1/4 cup honey in a small bowl. Mix until creamy and smooth.

Step 9: Serve

Remove the biscuits from the oven and cool slightly on a rack. Serve warm with a generous smear of honey butter. Enjoy the warm, aromatic blend of pumpkin and sage complemented by sweet, creamy honey butter.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

• Pair with a bowl of Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili for an irresistibly cozy meal.
• Enjoy alongside spiced apple cider or warm chai for the perfect autumn brunch.
• Serve with savory dishes like roasted turkey or maple-glazed ham.
• Add freshly grated sharp cheddar to the biscuit dough for a cheesy twist.
• Top the honey butter with a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans for added crunch.

If You’re Curious

Wondering why pumpkin puree is used instead of pumpkin pie filling? Puree is natural pumpkin with no added sugars or spices, allowing you to control the flavor perfectly.

Fresh sage adds a subtle, savory note that balances the sweetness of the pumpkin and honey beautifully. If you don’t have fresh sage, dried sage can work but use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Buttermilk is key for tenderizing and activating the leaveners. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Save It for Later

• Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, freeze baked biscuits in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
• Honey butter can be stored in the refrigerator in a small jar for up to a week. Bring it to room temperature before spreading.

Reader Q&A

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that could alter the flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have fresh sage?

You can substitute with dried sage, but reduce the amount to about 1 1/2 teaspoons. Alternatively, try fresh thyme or rosemary for a different but complementary herbal touch.

Can I make these biscuits dairy-free?

Yes! Use a plant-based butter substitute that works well for baking and swap the buttermilk with a mixture of plant milk and lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the acidity.

How do I make sure my biscuits turn out flaky?

Keep your butter cold and handle the dough gently. Overmixing can develop gluten and make the biscuits tough. Cutting the butter into pea-sized pieces helps create the layers that give biscuits their flakiness.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• For a comforting dinner, try pairing these biscuits with Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chili — it’s an easy, hearty meal.
• Looking for a sweet treat? Bake up some Caramel Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies for a delightful dessert.
• For something to nibble on with coffee, the Chocolate Pumpkin Walnut Biscotti are perfect and keep well for days.

Wrap-Up

Pumpkin-Sage Biscuits with Honey Butter are a beautiful marriage of seasonal flavors and comforting textures. They’re simple enough for a weekday treat but special enough for holiday gatherings. With their tender crumb, aromatic herbs, and the sweet finish of honey butter, these biscuits invite you to savor the flavors of fall in every bite. Whether you’re new to biscuit baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises delicious results that will have everyone asking for more. So, grab your ingredients, warm up your oven, and enjoy the cozy goodness of homemade pumpkin-sage biscuits today.

Share on Pinterest