Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling Recipe

If you’re looking for a charming, festive treat that will impress your guests and bring a cozy autumn vibe to your table, these Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling are an absolute must-make. Combining buttery, flaky crescent roll dough with a smooth, spiced pumpkin cream cheese filling, this recipe captures the essence of fall in every bite. The cute pumpkin shapes topped with little pretzel stems make these treats not only delicious but irresistibly adorable, perfect for parties, snack times, or even a special breakfast surprise.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling lies in its simplicity, yet each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect blend of flavors, textures, and colors. From the creamy filling to the golden exterior, every component is essential.

• Brown sugar: Adds a natural sweetness and a hint of caramel that balances the pumpkin flavor.
• Pumpkin pie spice: A warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that gives the filling its signature cozy aroma.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors with a subtle, fragrant note.
• Refrigerated crescent roll dough (8-count): Keeps the process quick and easy, offering a flaky, buttery base for the pumpkin filling.
• Cream cheese, softened: Provides richness and a smooth texture that makes the filling irresistibly creamy.
• Canned pumpkin purée: The star of the show, giving that quintessential pumpkin flavor and vibrant color.
• Egg (for egg wash): Creates a shiny, golden finish on the pastry that looks as good as it tastes.
• Orange food coloring (optional): Intensifies the pumpkin-orange hue, making the treats even more festive.
• Pretzel sticks or green candy (optional): Perfect little “stems” that add a playful and authentic pumpkin look.

How to Make Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling

Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your Crescent Pumpkins bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze and helping you get that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Mixing the Filling

In a bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, pumpkin purée, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This filling is where all the cozy fall flavors meld into a creamy, slightly sweet blend that melts in your mouth.

Step 3: Preparing the Crescents

Unroll the crescent roll dough and gently press the seams closed to prevent leaking. Then, cut the dough into eight equal portions, creating perfect bases for each pumpkin. This step is simple but crucial to shaping your final treats.

Step 4: Adding the Filling

Spoon about one tablespoon of the pumpkin cream cheese filling into the center of each dough section. Using just the right amount prevents overstuffing while guaranteeing plenty of filling in every bite.

Step 5: Shaping the Pumpkins

Carefully fold and pinch the dough around the filling, shaping each into a round pumpkin form. Using a toothpick or the tip of a knife, gently score vertical ridges around the dough to mimic pumpkin grooves. This little detail adds charm and helps the treats look delightfully festive.

Step 6: Adding the Finishing Touches

Beat the egg with a few drops of orange food coloring if you’re using it, then brush this egg wash over each pumpkin to give them that gorgeous golden-orange finish after baking. This step makes the Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling visually stunning and irresistibly appetizing.

Step 7: Baking

Place your shaped pumpkins onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown. The smell wafting from your oven at this stage is seriously heavenly and your anticipation will be at an all-time high!

Step 8: Adding Stems and Cooling

Once baked, let the pumpkins cool slightly. If you like, press a pretzel stick or a piece of green candy into the top of each one to create a whimsical pumpkin stem. This simple touch makes these treats fun and perfect for sharing at fall gatherings.

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

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little powdered sugar or a pinch of cinnamon on top if you want to add a bit of extra flair and warmth. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce pairs beautifully with the creamy pumpkin filling and adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Side Dishes

These crescent pumpkins are fantastic on their own but also work wonderfully alongside a warm chai latte or a cup of spiced apple cider. For a dessert spread, pair them with vanilla ice cream or a cranberry-orange compote to play up the fall flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive table, arrange your Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling on a bright autumn-themed platter surrounded by mini gourds and cinnamon sticks. You can also serve them in individual cupcake liners with a dash of powdered sugar “snow” to create a mini pumpkin patch effect that looks as cute as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Crescent Pumpkins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to four days. Keep in mind that refrigeration might slightly soften the flaky crust, but the taste remains delightful.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these treats later, freeze the unbaked crescent pumpkins before baking, shaped and ready on a parchment-lined sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8-10 minutes or until warmed through and slightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the dough soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use homemade crescent dough instead of refrigerated dough?

Absolutely! Homemade crescent dough will work beautifully, adding an extra layer of buttery flavor and flakiness. Just be sure to keep it chilled before shaping to make handling easier when creating the pumpkin shapes.

Is it okay to substitute fresh pumpkin purée for canned?

Yes, fresh pumpkin purée can be used, but ensure it is well-cooked and drained of excess moisture to avoid soggy dough and overly wet filling. Canned pumpkin purée is often more consistent in texture and flavor for baking recipes.

Can Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling be made vegan?

With some creativity, yes! Substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative, use dairy-free crescent dough, and replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk brushed on top. The flavors will still be delicious and festive.

How long do Crescent Pumpkins stay fresh after baking?

These treats taste best the day they are made but will remain enjoyable for 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Their texture may soften over time, so reheating before serving is recommended.

Can I add other flavors to the filling?

Definitely! A pinch of ground ginger, a splash of maple syrup, or even mini chocolate chips stirred into the filling can add exciting new flavors and textures, making your Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling uniquely yours.

Final Thoughts

Making these Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling truly feels like creating a little piece of autumn magic in your own kitchen. They are easy to make, bursting with comforting fall flavors, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe soon — it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and a warm seasonal glow to any occasion.

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