Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few desserts embody the cozy essence of autumn quite like pumpkin treats. This delicious recipe combines a flavorful pecan crust with a creamy pumpkin filling, making it perfect for fall gatherings or a sweet indulgence any time of the year. With straightforward instructions and a wonderful blend of spices, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.
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
– 14 ounces powdered sugar
– ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including cooling)
Yield: 12-15 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your 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 Mixture
In a large food processor, pulse the chopped pecans until they are finely ground. Add the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt to the processor. Pulse the mixture until all the dry ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Make the Crust Dough
To the dry mixture in the food processor, add the large eggs and the unsalted butter, which should be at room temperature. Process the ingredients together until a thick, cohesive dough forms.
Step 4: Press the Dough into the Baking Dish
Take the thick dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring it covers the entire base to form a crust.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling Mixture
Clean out the food processor after using it for the crust. Add the room temperature cream cheese and canned pumpkin to the processor. Blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Add Liquid Ingredients
To the pumpkin and cream cheese mixture, add the large eggs, vanilla extract, and melted unsalted butter. Process these ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and smooth.
Step 7: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients into the Filling
Next, add the powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg to the filling. Process everything together until the mixture is completely smooth.
Step 8: Assemble the Dish
Pour the pumpkin filling over the crust in the baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
Step 9: Bake the Dish
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, ensuring the dessert is not overbaked.
Step 10: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool completely before cutting and serving.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best quality.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving with whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla ice cream for added flavor.
Ingredient Alternatives
If desired, you can substitute the pecans with walnuts or omit them altogether for a nut-free option.
Cook techniques
Grinding Pecans
Use a food processor to pulse the pecans until they are finely ground. This creates a nutty texture for the crust.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In the food processor, combine the ground pecans with all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pulse until the mixture is well combined.
Making the Dough
Add the eggs and melted butter to the dry mixture in the food processor and process until a thick dough forms. This dough will serve as the base for your crust.
Preparing the Crust
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a lined baking dish. Ensure it covers the entire base to form a solid foundation for the filling.
Blending the Filling
In the clean food processor, blend the cream cheese and pumpkin until smooth. This creates a creamy base for the filling.
Incorporating Eggs and Butter
Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter to the pumpkin mixture in the food processor. Process until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Sweetening the Filling
Add powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg to the mixture. Blend until the filling is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
Baking the Dessert
Pour the filling over the prepared crust and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few crumbs.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds, though the flavor and texture will slightly differ.
Should the cream cheese be softened?
Yes, using room temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth filling without lumps.
How do I know when the dessert is done baking?
The dessert is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
Can I make this dessert a day in advance?
Yes, this dessert can be made ahead of time. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Is it necessary to line the baking dish with foil?
Lining the baking dish with foil makes it easier to lift the dessert out for cutting and serving. It’s recommended for easier cleanup.
Conclusion
This delightful pumpkin cream cheese dessert offers a wonderful blend of flavors and textures, with a buttery pecan crust supporting a rich, creamy filling. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a comforting, seasonal treat.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pecan Pie Bars
Combine pecans, brown sugar, and corn syrup with a buttery crust for a classic and sweet indulgence.
Chocolate Pumpkin Swirl Brownies
Mix pumpkin puree with brownie batter for a rich, fudgy treat that brings a hint of autumn flavor to a beloved dessert.
Apple Cinnamon Crisp
Layer sliced apples with a buttery oat topping and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, comforting dessert.
Pumpkin Cheesecake
Make a cheesecake using pumpkin puree and cream cheese for a smooth and decadent dessert that’s perfect for fall.
Maple Pecan Cookies
Incorporate maple syrup and toasted pecans into a cookie dough for a chewy, sweet treat.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Bake muffins with pumpkin puree and warm spices for a cozy breakfast or snack option.
