Description
Pumpkin cream cheese delight brings autumn’s warmth to your dessert table with creamy layers of seasonal magic. Spiced pumpkin and silky cream cheese mingle in this irresistible treat that promises comfort and indulgence in each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Delight
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed canned pumpkin
- 1 (8 ounces/226 grams) package softened cream cheese
- 1 piece pre-made pie dough
Sweet Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup half-and-half cream
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 3 egg yolks, slightly beaten (1 yolk plus 2 yolks)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Spice and Seasoning Ingredients:
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
Topping:
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the pie crust for a flawless foundation by positioning the oven rack in the center and preheating to 180°C (350°F). Gently drape the pie dough into a 9-inch pie pan, meticulously shaping the edges with delicate crimps and ensuring a smooth surface.
- Chill the prepared crust in the freezer for precisely 60 minutes to prevent shrinkage. Line with parchment paper and fill with ceramic pie weights or uncooked dried beans, then bake for 10 minutes to establish a sturdy structure.
- Remove the weights and parchment, returning the crust to the oven for an additional 10-12 minutes until it achieves a gentle golden hue. Allow the crust to cool completely while preparing the filling.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to transform the cream cheese into a silky, lump-free consistency. Gradually incorporate the pumpkin puree, ensuring a uniform blend.
- Introduce granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, egg yolks, half-and-half cream, and melted unsalted butter. Blend thoroughly until the mixture reaches a smooth, velvety texture with no visible streaks.
- Enhance the flavor profile by gently folding in pure vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and optional ground ginger for a subtle warmth and complexity.
- Pour the luxurious filling into the pre-baked crust, spreading evenly and eliminating any air pockets. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center exhibits a gentle wobble when softly shaken.
- Remove from the oven and position on a wire cooling rack. Allow the pie to rest and set completely at room temperature for approximately 2-3 hours.
- When ready to serve, slice with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts. Garnish each portion with a generous cloud of freshly whipped cream for an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- Chilling the pie crust before baking helps prevent shrinkage and creates a flakier texture, ensuring a perfect base for your creamy pumpkin filling.
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for smoother mixing and a more consistent filling that blends effortlessly.
- Baking the pie until the center is just set prevents overcooking, keeping the texture silky and preventing cracks on the surface.
- Let the pie cool completely at room temperature to allow the filling to set properly and develop a rich, smooth consistency.
- Enhance the flavor by using freshly ground spices like cinnamon and ginger for a more vibrant and aromatic dessert.
- Whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense, creamy pumpkin filling, creating a delightful balance of textures.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg