Name: Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 package Crescent Roll Dough (Use refrigerated for quick preparation); 5 oz Cream Cheese (Substitute with vegan cream cheese for dairy-free); 2 tbsp Sugar; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Can be omitted if desired); ¾ cup Pumpkin Puree (Drain excess moisture); 1 tbsp Corn Starch (Arrowroot powder is a great alternative); 2 tbsp Light-Brown Sugar; 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar; ¾ tsp Ground Cinnamon; ¼ tsp Ground Ginger; ¼ tsp Nutmeg; ⅛ tsp Allspice; 1 large Egg Yolk (Replace with a flax egg for vegan version); 2 ½ tbsp Melted Butter (Gives a tasty sheen)

As I pulled out the warm trays of Crescent Pumpkins from the oven, the aroma of spiced pumpkin filled the air, instantly transporting me to crisp autumn days. This whimsical treat combines flaky crescent roll dough with a luscious cream cheese filling and spiced pumpkin pie mixture—perfect for potlucks, Halloween gatherings, or a cozy family dessert. What I love most about these Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling is their irresistible charm and ease of preparation. With minimal fuss, you can whip up a batch that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a cheerful pop to your fall celebrations. Whether you’re entertaining friends or indulging in a personal treat, these bite-sized wonders are sure to impress. Ready to dive into making these delightful fall goodies? Let’s get started!

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Why Are These Crescent Pumpkins Special?

Whimsical Appeal: These adorable Crescent Pumpkins bring a playful touch to your fall festivities, making them a hit at any gathering. Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, creating these treats doesn’t require expert skills—perfect for anyone! Heavenly Filling: The creamy cream cheese blended with spiced pumpkin filling creates a rich, comforting bite that captures all the essence of autumn. Customizable Options: Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking to try different flavors like apple or chocolate, these crescent pumpkins easily adapt to your preferences. For more delightful variations, check out my Key Lime Pie or indulge in some Fudgy Cookies Cream brownies!

Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese Ingredients

• Dive into the joy of making these Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling!

For the Dough

Crescent Roll Dough – Perfectly flaky; use refrigerated for quick and easy preparation.

For the Cream Cheese Filling

Cream Cheese (5 oz.) – Rich and creamy; substitute with vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free delight.
Sugar (2 tbsp) – Sweetens the filling beautifully.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhance with this aromatic flavor; can be omitted if you wish.

For the Pumpkin Filling

Pumpkin Puree (¾ cup) – Essential for that smooth and spiced pumpkin flavor; drain excess moisture to keep it firm.
Corn Starch (1 tbsp) – Helps to thicken the mixture; arrowroot powder is a great alternative.
Light-Brown Sugar (2 tbsp) & Granulated Sugar (2 tbsp) – For a sweet depth; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
Spices:
Ground Cinnamon (¾ tsp) – Brings warmth to the filling.
Ground Ginger (¼ tsp) – Adds a lovely zing!
Nutmeg (¼ tsp) – Delivers that cozy taste of fall.
Allspice (1/8 tsp) – Complements the pumpkin essence beautifully.

For Binding

Egg Yolk (1) – Acts as a binder; replace with a flax egg for a vegan version.

For Brushing

Melted Butter (2 ½ tbsp) – Gives a tasty sheen and a crisp finish on the dough.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie

Step 1: Prepare Pumpkin
Begin by draining the pumpkin puree to remove excess moisture, which is key in preventing sogginess in your Crescent Pumpkins. Use paper towels to pat the pumpkin until it’s relatively dry. This process should only take about 5 minutes, ensuring that your filling has the perfect texture.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This temperature is ideal for getting that lovely golden-brown finish on your Crescent Pumpkins. Preparing the baking sheet ahead of time allows you to transition smoothly into the baking process later.

Step 3: Make Pumpkin Pie Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pumpkin puree with the egg yolk, sugars, corn starch, and spices. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to blend thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This spiced pumpkin filling will be a delightful complement to the cream cheese layer.

Step 4: Prepare Cream Cheese Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until fluffy, around 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it creates a rich and creamy filling that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin pie filling. The texture should be light and airy, making it perfect for dolloping onto your crescent dough.

Step 5: Form Dough Squares
Unroll the crescent roll dough gently on a clean surface, and separate it into rectangles as per the package instructions. Cut each rectangle into squares, stretching them slightly to form about 3-4 inches in size. This will provide ample space to hold the delicious fillings of your Crescent Pumpkins.

Step 6: Fill Dough
Place a tablespoon of the cream cheese filling and a tablespoon of the pumpkin pie filling at the center of each square. Fold the corners of the dough over the fillings and pinch to seal securely. Take your time to ensure no filling escapes during baking. This part showcases the deliciousness packed inside your Crescent Pumpkins.

Step 7: Shape Pumpkins
Wrap each filled square with kitchen twine, tying it loosely to create the charming pumpkin shape. The twine will help maintain the form while baking, so be careful not to tie it too tightly. This whimsical method not only looks fantastic but will also allow the filling flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 8: Bake
Brush each pumpkin-shaped dough piece with melted butter, which gives a glossy finish. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and enjoy the delightful aroma of fall wafting through your kitchen.

Step 9: Cool and Decorate
Once baked, remove your Crescent Pumpkins from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Carefully snip and remove the twine. For a final touch, garnish each with a pretzel stick to create charming stems. These artisanal-looking treats are now ready to impress at your next gathering!

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Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these delightful Crescent Pumpkins your own! Each variation adds a unique twist that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Vegan: Replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and the egg yolk with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) for a delicious dairy-free option. Transforming these treats means everyone can enjoy the seasonal goodness!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough to ensure that everyone can indulge in these bite-sized delights. This makes gathering with friends and family worry-free and enjoyable!
Alternative Fillings: Swap out pumpkin pie filling for apple pie filling or chocolate to create exciting new flavors. Imagine the ooey-gooey goodness of chocolate mingling with that flaky crust—pure bliss!
Spice Variations: Experiment by adding a pinch of pumpkin pie spice or chai spice to either the cream cheese or pumpkin filling for a flavor punch. These simple tweaks can elevate your Crescent Pumpkins to gourmet levels!
Nutty Addition: Stir in some finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the pumpkin filling for a delightful crunch. This adds both texture and a beautiful nutty aroma to your treats.
Maple Sweetness: Instead of granulated sugar, try using maple syrup in the cream cheese filling for a warm, autumnal twist. This natural sweetener enhances the cozy flavors of fall, inviting everyone to indulge.
Extra Spice: Kick up the heat a notch by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the pumpkin filling. It’s a surprising yet welcome twist that keeps things exciting!

For more ideas, check out my delightful recipe for Decadent Carrot Frosting or enjoy the rich flavors of Brownie Ice Cream. Each variation adds a personal touch to these charming Crescent Pumpkins!

How to Store and Freeze Crescent Pumpkins

Fridge: Store any leftover Crescent Pumpkins in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy again.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked Crescent Pumpkins in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. This ensures you revive that delightful flaky texture!

Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the quality and flavors of your Crescent Pumpkins.

Make Ahead Options

These Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling are perfect for meal prep, making your fall gatherings seamless! You can prepare the pumpkin pie filling and the cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent moisture buildup. To assemble, cut the crescent dough into squares and fill them just before baking, which ensures they retain their flaky texture and delicious flavor. When you’re ready to serve, wrap and bake the assembled Crescent Pumpkins for 18-22 minutes until golden brown—these delightful treats will be just as scrumptious!

Expert Tips for Crescent Pumpkins

Thoroughly Drain Pumpkin: Always drain the pumpkin puree to prevent sogginess in the filling, ensuring a delightful flaky texture in your Crescent Pumpkins.
Careful Twine Tying: Tie the kitchen twine loosely around the filled dough to avoid cutting into the dough during baking—this helps maintain that lovely pumpkin shape!
Fresh Spices Matter: For the best flavor, use fresh spices in your filling. They elevate the taste and aroma, capturing the essence of the autumn season beautifully.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pastries while baking. Ovens vary, so checking for a golden brown hue around the 18-minute mark ensures perfect doneness.
Experiment with Fillings: Get creative! These Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling can be customized with apple or chocolate fillings for a delightful twist.

What to Serve with Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling

As the sweet aroma of pumpkin fills your home, it’s time to think about what to pair with these charming treats to create a delightful fall feast.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes provide a comforting balance to the warm spices in the crescent pumpkins, making for a satisfying meal combination.
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy, caramelized edges and earthy flavor sing in harmony with the sweetness of pumpkin, bringing vibrant color and texture to the table.
Apple Salad with Walnuts: A crunchy apple salad, bursting with fresh flavor and textural contrast, complements the rich filling beautifully, adding brightness to your fall spread.
Butternut Squash Soup: The velvety, warm soup, infused with cozy spices, enhances the fall theme and rounds out the meal with its nourishing qualities.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce brings a refreshing kick that contrasts delightfully with the sweetness of the pumpkin filling.
Sparkling Cider: This bubbly drink brings a festive touch, enhancing the flavors of fall while offering a refreshing palate cleanser between sweet bites.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop on the side for a delectable dessert pairing, balancing the warm flavors of the crescent pumpkins with a cold, creamy treat.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices from chai echo those in the pumpkin filling, creating a harmonious and soothing beverage to enjoy alongside your treats.

These delightful pairings not only enhance the flavors of your Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your autumn gatherings. Enjoy!

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Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! It’s best to use canned pure pumpkin puree for convenience. You can also use homemade pumpkin puree if you want a fresher taste; just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture, which could lead to soggy Crescent Pumpkins.

How should I store leftover Crescent Pumpkins?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. If you’re planning to keep them longer, the freezer is a great option!

Can I freeze Crescent Pumpkins?
Yes, you can freeze them! To freeze, place the baked Crescent Pumpkins in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

What if my pumpkin filling is too runny?
If your pumpkin filling is too runny, don’t worry! You can thicken it by adding a little more corn starch (or arrowroot powder). Mix it in well and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the moisture. If you’re using homemade puree, make sure to drain it thoroughly to prevent excess water.

Are these Crescent Pumpkins suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for vegan options, simply replace the cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal combined with 3 tablespoons of water) instead of the egg yolk. For those needing a gluten-free option, gluten-free crescent roll dough is readily available—making this treat accessible for everyone!

Can my pets enjoy these Crescent Pumpkins?
While these treats are delightful for humans, they should not be shared with pets. Ingredients like sugar and spices can upset your furry friends’ stomachs. It’s best to stick to pet-friendly treats for them!