Introduction
Delight in the rich flavors of this delectable pumpkin cream cheese dessert. Combining the warm, comforting essence of fall spices with a creamy filling, this recipe provides a luscious treat perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Crust:
2½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup chopped pecans
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1½ sticks unsalted butter
Filling:
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
15 ounces canned pumpkin (not pie filling)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 stick unsalted butter, melted
14 ounces powdered sugar
½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes (including cooling)
Yield: 12-15 servings
This delightful pumpkin dessert is sure to be a fall favorite, bringing flavors together in a harmonious blend of sweetness and spice. Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring every bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lining it with foil and spraying the foil with baking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust Ingredients
In a food processor, pulse the pecans until finely ground. Then, add the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pulse the mixture until all ingredients are combined.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Add the eggs and unsalted butter to the flour mixture in the food processor. Process the mixture until a thick dough forms.
Step 4: Press the Dough into the Dish
Evenly press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the crust.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling Ingredients
Wipe out the food processor after preparing the crust. Add the room temperature cream cheese and canned pumpkin to the processor, and blend until smooth.
Step 6: Combine Filling Ingredients
Add the large eggs, vanilla extract, and melted unsalted butter to the pumpkin and cream cheese mixture. Process until the ingredients are well combined.
Step 7: Add Spices and Sugar
Incorporate the powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg into the mixture. Process until the filling is smooth.
Step 8: Pour Filling Over Crust
Carefully pour the pumpkin filling over the crust in the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 9: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few crumbs but not wet batter. Avoid overbaking.
Step 10: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool before cutting and serving.
Notes
Note 1: Pecan Preparation
Ensure that the pecans are finely ground to contribute to a smooth crust texture.
Note 2: Cream Cheese Temperature
Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
Note 3: Avoid Overbaking
Keep an eye on the baking time, as overbaking can lead to a dry texture. The filling should be set but not firm.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
Consider serving with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for an added touch.
Cook techniques
Pulsing Ingredients
Using a food processor to pulse the pecans and dry ingredients helps achieve a uniform texture and ensures the crust is well combined.
Forming Crust
Pressing the dough evenly into the baking dish creates a stable base for the filling that holds together during baking.
Blending the Filling
Processing the cream cheese and pumpkin until smooth is crucial to eliminate lumps and create a creamy filling that integrates all flavors.
Layering
Pouring the filling over the crust ensures even distribution, allowing it to bake uniformly and meld together.
Baking Time
Monitoring the baking time is essential; checking for a few crumbs on a toothpick helps prevent overbaking and maintains a moist texture.
FAQ
Can I use other nuts for the crust?
Yes, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut flavor.
Is it necessary to use room temperature cream cheese?
Yes, using cream cheese at room temperature allows for smoother mixing and better incorporation into the filling.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely, you can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I use instead of pumpkin pie spice?
You can create a substitute by mixing equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand.
How can I tell if the filling is done baking?
The filling should set with a slight jiggle in the center; a toothpick test should reveal a few crumbs for optimal texture.
Conclusion
This delightful pumpkin cream cheese dessert combines a rich crust with a creamy filling, perfect for autumn gatherings or any special occasion. Easy to make and deeply satisfying, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie
Use a cookie dough crust and fill it with melted chocolate mixed with eggs and vanilla for a chewy, chocolate-filled delight.
Pecan Pie Bars
Replace the pumpkin filling with a mixture of corn syrup, chopped pecans, and brown sugar for a gooey pecan pie experience.
Apple Cinnamon Crumble
Swap the pumpkin for sliced apples and top with a crumble made from oats, brown sugar, and butter for a classic autumn dessert.
Cheesecake Brownies
Add a layer of cheesecake filling over a rich brownie base, using the same cream cheese mixture for a decadent treat.
Lemon Blueberry Bars
Replace the pumpkin with fresh blueberries and lemon zest, creating a refreshing and vibrant dessert that’s perfect for summer.
