Thanksgiving is a time of cherished traditions, and for many, a slice of pumpkin pie is the crowning glory of the holiday feast. However, this year, why not add a delightful twist to your dessert table with a Pumpkin Cream Cheese Crisp? This recipe takes the classic flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon and transforms them into an easy - to - assemble fruit crisp that is sure to be a hit.
Let's start with the star of the show - the pumpkin. Pumpkins are not only a symbol of fall but also a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. When combined with warm cinnamon, the flavors evoke the cozy feeling of the holiday season. The cinnamon adds a spicy and sweet note that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the pumpkin.
One of the unique features of this recipe is the addition of ribbons of cream cheese. Cream cheese brings a cheesecake - like richness to the crisp. As it bakes, the cream cheese softens and melds with the pumpkin filling, creating a smooth and creamy layer that is both decadent and comforting. The contrast between the creamy cream cheese and the slightly spiced pumpkin is simply divine.
Now, let's talk about the topping. The topping of a fruit crisp is what gives it that satisfying crunch. In this recipe, we use pepitas, also known as pumpkin seeds. Pepitas are not only a great source of protein and healthy fats but also add a wonderful texture to the dish. When combined with oats, flour, brown sugar, and a bit of butter, they create a crumbly and nutty topping that pairs perfectly with the soft pumpkin and cream cheese filling.
To make this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Crisp, you'll first need to prepare the pumpkin filling. Start by roasting a pumpkin and pureeing it. Then, mix the pumpkin puree with eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a bit of vanilla extract. The eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the filling together. The sugar adds sweetness, while the spices give it that classic fall flavor.
Next, prepare the cream cheese layer. Soften the cream cheese at room temperature and then mix it with sugar, an egg, and a bit of vanilla. The egg in the cream cheese layer helps to stabilize it and gives it a smooth texture. Once the cream cheese mixture is well - combined, you can spread it in ribbons over the pumpkin filling.
For the topping, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, pepitas, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Then, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the cream cheese and pumpkin layers.
Place the crisp in a preheated oven and bake it until the topping is golden brown and the filling is set. The baking time will depend on the size of your baking dish, but it usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour. As the crisp bakes, the flavors will meld together, and the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin will fill your kitchen, making it feel even more like the holidays.
Once the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Crisp is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold ice cream or whipped cream adds a refreshing contrast to the warm and spiced crisp.
This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Crisp is not only delicious but also relatively easy to make. It's a great recipe to make with the whole family, as everyone can get involved in the preparation process. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to be a success. So, this Thanksgiving, skip the traditional pumpkin pie and give this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Crisp a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
