As the first leaves begin to carpet the ground in hues of red and gold, my kitchen transforms into a haven of delightful aromas and cozy flavors. This is the perfect time to whip up my favorite fall dessert: Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling. These charming little treats, with their flaky crust and creamy, spiced interior, are not only a feast for the eyes but also a crowd-pleaser that gathers family around the table. What I love most about this recipe is its quick prep time—you can have these baked and ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes! Plus, with simple swaps for gluten-free or vegan options, everyone can indulge in this seasonal joy. So, are you ready to create a cozy autumn experience in your kitchen?
What makes these pumpkin treats special?
Delightful Simplicity: The Crescent Pumpkins come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy fall evenings or last-minute gatherings.
Festive Presentation: Each treat is beautifully shaped, mimicking a pumpkin, perfect for impressing guests at Halloween parties and Thanksgiving feasts.
Comforting Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and spiced pumpkin filling creates a warm, inviting taste reminiscent of your favorite pumpkin spice latte, evoking the essence of autumn.
Versatile Options: Easily adaptable for dietary needs, simply swap traditional ingredients for gluten-free or vegan alternatives, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy these delicious bites.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These bite-sized delights are loved by kids and adults alike, so you can confidently serve them at any gathering, knowing they’ll be a hit! For more comforting recipes like these, check out my Pumpkin Cream Cheese or Garten Pumpkin Cheesecake for a delightful twist on fall flavors.
Crescent Pumpkins Ingredients
• Get ready for a delicious fall treat!
For the Dough
• Crescent Roll Dough – Flaky structure for the dessert; use refrigerated dough for ease of preparation.
• Melted Butter – Brushing onto the dough helps achieve a golden color; substitute with plant-based butter for vegan options.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Cream Cheese – Provides a smooth, tangy center; opt for vegan cream cheese as a plant-based substitute.
• Sugar (granulated and brown) – Balances sweetness; brown sugar adds extra depth.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavors; you can omit in vegan versions if preferred.
For the Pumpkin Filling
• Pumpkin Puree – Main flavor and moisture source; make sure it’s well-drained to prevent sogginess.
• Corn Starch – Acts as a thickening agent for the filling, crucial for the right texture.
• Spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice) – Adds warmth and that signature fall flavor; adjust according to your taste.
• Egg Yolk – Helps bind the pumpkin filling; swap for a flax egg for a vegan option.
For the Decoration
• Pretzel Sticks – Mimics a pumpkin stem; can be swapped with pecans or cinnamon sticks for a fun twist.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling
Step 1: Prepare Pumpkin
Start by draining the pumpkin puree to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent sogginess in your Crescent Pumpkins. Place it in a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, and allow it to sit while you prepare other ingredients. This step ensures a flavorful and well-textured pumpkin filling.
Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This setup creates a non-stick surface for your baked Crescent Pumpkins, ensuring they come off easily after baking. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients for quick access.
Step 3: Mix Pumpkin Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the well-drained pumpkin puree, egg yolk, granulated and brown sugars, corn starch, and spices. Blend these ingredients until you achieve a smooth mixture, taking about 2–3 minutes. This filling will deliver a delightful spiced flavor to your Crescent Pumpkins, making them perfect for fall gatherings.
Step 4: Prepare Cream Cheese Filling
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This creamy mixture will add a delightful tangy center to your Crescent Pumpkins. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl for an even consistency, ensuring that every bite is delicious.
Step 5: Prepare Dough
Unroll the crescent dough on a clean surface. Gently press together the perforations to create a seamless sheet. Next, cut the dough into squares, approximately 3 inches by 3 inches. This process allows you to have uniform pieces for filling and shaping your Crescent Pumpkins.
Step 6: Fill Dough
Take a square of dough and place about a tablespoon of the cream cheese filling and a tablespoon of the pumpkin filling in the center. Pinch the corners together to seal the fillings inside, creating little parcels of goodness. Ensure the edges are well-sealed to prevent any leakage during baking.
Step 7: Shape Dough
Wrap each filled dough square with kitchen twine, creating segments like a pumpkin. This technique will give your Crescent Pumpkins their playful shape, and help them rise beautifully during baking. Make sure the twine is not too tight, as you want the dough to rise and expand.
Step 8: Bake
Place your shaped Crescent Pumpkins on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with melted butter. Bake them in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky. While baking, enjoy the delightful aroma of the spiced filling wafting through your kitchen.
Step 9: Cool & Decorate
Once baked, remove the Crescent Pumpkins from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a rack. After about 5 minutes, carefully remove the twine and insert pretzel sticks into the top of each pumpkin as stems. This fun decoration will not only enhance their appearance but also make them even more appealing for your autumn gatherings.
What to Serve with Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling
Enhance your cozy autumn gathering with delightful pairings that complement the warmth and sweetness of these charming treats.
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Cider Sangria: A light and fruity drink, this refreshing sangria adds a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the Crescent Pumpkins.
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Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: The nutty sweetness of roasted butternut squash, combined with a crisp apple vinaigrette, offers a refreshing balance to the creamy filling.
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Candied Pecans: These crunchy, sweet bites not only sprinkle in extra texture but their caramelized flavor enhances the overall fall experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over warm Crescent Pumpkins creates a delightful mix of temperatures and flavors, bringing comfort in every bite.
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Tea or Coffee: A steaming cup of spiced chai or a freshly brewed cappuccino pairs perfectly with these pumpkin treats, adding a cozy feel to your autumn dessert spread.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: Soft, fluffy whipped cream adds a lightness, enhancing the richness of the Crescent Pumpkins while providing an extra touch of indulgence.
These pairings will not only make your Crescent Pumpkins shine but will leave your family and friends asking for seconds and even thirds!
How to Store and Freeze Crescent Pumpkins
Fridge: Store cooled Crescent Pumpkins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked Crescent Pumpkins individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your Crescent Pumpkins after freezing, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling a day ahead and keep it refrigerated; assemble and bake the Crescent Pumpkins when ready to serve, making for an easy, fresh treat.
Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful Crescent Pumpkins and make them your own!
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Sweet Potato Twist: Replace pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a subtly sweet alternative. The flavor is just as cozy, perfect for autumn!
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Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or clove to change the flavor profile. Each spice brings its unique warmth, giving your dessert a festive touch.
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Chocolate Indulgence: Stir in cocoa powder into the cream cheese filling for a chocolatey version of these treats. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the pumpkin for a richer taste!
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the pumpkin filling for a delightful texture contrast. The added crunch complements the creamy filling and flaky dough perfectly.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative to render the recipe completely dairy-free. You won’t miss a beat with the creamy texture!
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Herbal Infusion: Try adding a hint of sage or rosemary to the pumpkin filling for an unexpected yet delightful herbal note. It’s a unique twist that autumn enthusiasts will love!
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Miniature Wonders: Create bite-sized versions by cutting the dough into smaller squares. These mini Crescent Pumpkins are perfect for party platters or snack time, making them a hit for everyone!
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Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mix of cinnamon and sugar on top of the filled dough. It adds a sweet, crispy layer that elevates these treats just like a cinnamon roll.
For more delicious fall treats, consider whipping up my Pumpkin Cream Cheese or Garten Pumpkin Cheesecake for a comforting finale to your gatherings!
Make Ahead Options
These Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling are perfect for those busy days when you need to plan ahead! You can prepare the pumpkin and cream cheese fillings up to 24 hours in advance; just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can shape the filled dough parcels and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before baking. Simply cover them well with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, bake them directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly golden, flaky treats that are just as delightful as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for Crescent Pumpkins
Well-Drained Pumpkin: Ensure your pumpkin puree is thoroughly drained to prevent sogginess in your Crescent Pumpkins. Excess moisture can ruin the texture.
Seal the Dough: Pinch the corners of your dough squares firmly to prevent any filling leakage during baking. A tight seal keeps all that delicious filling inside.
Twine Technique: When wrapping with kitchen twine, do it loosely. This enables the dough to rise beautifully without the twine cutting into it.
Decoration Alternatives: If you can’t find pretzel sticks for decoration, use toothpicks or mini cinnamon sticks instead. They add a festive touch as well!
Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with your spice blend based on personal preference. More nutmeg or cardamom can create an exciting twist in your Crescent Pumpkins.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just reheat gently before serving!
Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but ensure it’s 100% pumpkin without any added sugars or spices. If you opt for fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it, making sure to drain excess moisture for a consistent filling texture.
How should I store leftover Crescent Pumpkins?
You can store cooled Crescent Pumpkins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their delightful texture. Just allow them to cool to room temperature before sealing them tight. If you’d like to keep them longer, freezing is an option!
Can I freeze these treats for later?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Crescent Pumpkins, let them cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually for about an hour. After they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
What can I do if the dough leaks during baking?
Very occasionally, leaks can happen. If the dough corners aren’t pinched tightly enough, fill will escape. Ensure you’ve sealed the edges well before baking. If your filling does leak, don’t worry—just enjoy the rustic charm! You might also add a touch more cornstarch to your pumpkin filling next time for an extra thickening boost.
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! For gluten allergies, opt for gluten-free crescent dough. To make it vegan, substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative and replace the egg yolk with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, left to sit for a few minutes). Always check labels for potential allergens, especially with pre-packaged ingredients.
Can I customize the spices in the pumpkin filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your spice blend. While the classic mix includes cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice, adding cardamom or cloves can introduce a unique twist. Start with smaller amounts and adjust according to your taste preference, as everyone has different levels of spice enjoyment!
Cozy Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Filling
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Drain the pumpkin puree to remove excess moisture.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, granulated and brown sugars, corn starch, and spices.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until fluffy.
- Unroll the crescent dough, press together perforations, and cut into 3-inch squares.
- Fill each square with cream cheese and pumpkin filling, then seal the corners.
- Wrap each filled square with kitchen twine to mimic a pumpkin shape.
- Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly, remove twine, and insert pretzel sticks as stems.
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