Introduction
Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling are a delightful fall-inspired treat that combines the buttery flakiness of crescent dough with the creamy richness of pumpkin pie and cream cheese filling. Shaped into small pumpkins, these pastries are festive, flavorful, and perfect for autumn gatherings, Halloween parties, or Thanksgiving desserts. The balance of sweet spiced pumpkin and tangy cream cheese creates a comforting bite-sized indulgence.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Pumpkin-based desserts are deeply rooted in American tradition, especially tied to harvest season and Thanksgiving. Crescent rolls, introduced in the U.S. by Pillsbury in the 1960s, became a convenient way for home bakers to create pastries without making dough from scratch. Combining these two classics reflects a modern twist on tradition—where pumpkin pie flavors meet playful holiday presentation. These little pumpkin-shaped treats symbolize the joy of sharing food during the fall season, while also embracing the convenience of modern baking.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Crescent Pumpkins (makes about 8–10):
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup canned pumpkin purée
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 8–10 pretzel sticks or pecan halves (for stems)
Optional Additions
- Extra Sweetness: Drizzle with caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar after baking.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
- Savory Touch: Lightly sprinkle sea salt over the tops for a sweet-salty combo.
- Festive Garnish: Use green candy, fruit leather, or green icing as pumpkin “vines.”
Tips for Success
- Seal the edges tightly to prevent filling from leaking out during baking.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and even browning.
- Chill the filling slightly before assembling to make handling easier.
- Don’t overfill—a teaspoon or two per pumpkin is enough.
- Brush with egg wash for a golden, bakery-style finish.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, pumpkin purée, sugars, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth.
- Roll out crescent dough and separate into triangles.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each triangle, then carefully fold and pinch the dough around the filling to form a ball.
- Using kitchen twine, loosely tie around each ball to form pumpkin sections (or score lines gently with a knife).
- Brush with egg wash for shine.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove string (if used) and insert a pretzel stick or pecan half as the pumpkin stem.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Description
These Crescent Pumpkins are soft, golden pastries with a crisp, flaky crust and a creamy, spiced pumpkin filling inside. The tanginess of cream cheese pairs beautifully with the warm pumpkin spice, while their pumpkin-like shape makes them as charming as they are delicious. Each bite feels like a mini pumpkin pie wrapped in a buttery crescent roll.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1 pumpkin)
- Calories: 180–200
- Carbohydrates: 20–22g
- Protein: 3–4g
- Fat: 9–10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10–12g
Conclusion
Crescent Pumpkins with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Pie Filling are a festive, easy-to-make treat that bring together the flavors of fall in a fun, creative way. Whether served at a holiday dinner, school party, or casual gathering, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Recommendation
Pair these with a warm drink like spiced cider, pumpkin spice latte, or chai tea for the ultimate cozy experience. They also make a charming addition to a Thanksgiving dessert platter alongside pies and cookies.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While these pastries lean toward indulgence, they can be lightened up by using reduced-fat cream cheese, less sugar, or whole-wheat crescent dough if available. Enjoying them in moderation allows you to embrace the festive flavors of fall without guilt—celebrating both tradition and creativity in a health-conscious way.