As the crisp air settles in and the leaves begin to dance in golden hues, thoughts of cozy gatherings and festive feasts fill my heart. One delightful discovery that embodies the essence of fall for me is these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers. With each flaky, golden bite, you’re met with a heavenly combination of sweet pumpkin and creamy cheese that could make any dessert table sing.
I remember whipping these up last Thanksgiving while trying to find a way to impress my family without turning my kitchen into a chaotic mess. Much to my surprise, these turnovers are not only incredibly easy to make but also look stunning—perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself. The richness of cream cheese perfectly balances the warm spices, striking a chord that makes every autumn gathering complete.
Whether you’re savoring them alongside a cup of coffee or serving them as a contribution to a potluck, these turnovers are bound to be the star of the show. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s embark on this delicious journey to embrace the flavors of the season!
Why are Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers irresistible?
Irresistible, these turnovers are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy gatherings!
Easy to prepare, they can be whipped up without fuss, making kitchen time fun.
Flaky and golden, the puff pastry contrasts beautifully with the creamy pumpkin filling.
Versatile for any occasion, these treats shine at Thanksgiving or as a sweet everyday snack.
Deliciously spiced, the combination of pumpkin pie spice and cream cheese creates a symphony of fall flavors.
Gorgeous presentation ensures they’ll steal the spotlight on any dessert table!
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnover Ingredients
Get ready to create fall magic with these delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers!
For the Pastry
- Puff Pastry – Use store-bought sheets for a hassle-free and flaky crust.
For the Pumpkin Filling
- Pumpkin Puree – Stick to pure pumpkin puree for authentic flavor; avoid pie filling.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and complexity; substitute with coconut sugar for a different twist.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the filling’s taste; don’t skip this for maximum impact.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Enhances the pumpkin flavor; feel free to make your own blend or use alternative spices like cinnamon.
- Full Fat Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy richness; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
For the Egg Wash & Glaze
- Egg – Essential for achieving that beautiful golden color on the pastry.
- Powdered Sugar – Forms the silky glaze; make sure to sift it for a smooth finish.
- Milk – Thins the glaze to your preferred consistency; dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk work wonders too.
With these ingredients, your kitchen will be filled with warmth and the delightful aroma of fall, perfect for your easy Thanksgiving desserts!
How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot for baking the turnovers. This temperature will help create that beautiful flaky crust.
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Prepare Pastry: Unroll the puff pastry on a parchment-lined baking sheet to keep it from sticking. Cut the pastry into 6 equal squares, perfect for holding your delicious filling.
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Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir until well blended; the aroma will take you straight into fall!
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Assemble Turnovers: Spoon 1 teaspoon of cream cheese into the center of each pastry square, then add 1 tablespoon of the pumpkin mixture on top. Fold the pastry into a triangle and crimp the edges to seal—make sure they’re secure to keep the filling inside!
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Prepare for Baking: Carefully poke holes in the tops of the turnovers using a fork. This will help steam escape during baking. Brush the top of each turnover with beaten egg to give them that lovely golden color.
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Bake: Place the turnovers in the preheated oven and bake for 15-17 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up beautifully. The kitchen will start to smell irresistible!
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Cool and Glaze: Once baked, allow them to cool slightly. In the meantime, whisk together sifted powdered sugar, milk, and a dash of pumpkin pie spice for the glaze. Drizzle this sweet goodness over the cooled turnovers for the finishing touch!
Optional: Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers?
Imagine gathering around the table, delicious aromas wafting through the air as you share sweet moments with loved ones over delightful treats.
- Coffee: The rich, warm flavors of coffee pair perfectly with these turnovers, enhancing their sweetness and making for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Hot Apple Cider: With its spiced warmth, hot apple cider creates a delightful autumnal experience that complements the pumpkin filling beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream against the warm turnovers creates a heavenly contrast that is utterly indulgent.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can elevate your dessert spread; the acidity balances the richness of the turnovers.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel over the turnovers adds a decadent touch, enhancing their sweetness and adding a delightful chewiness.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: For the true fall experience, serve these turnovers with a pumpkin spice latte; the flavors harmonize and celebrate the season.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream not only adds fluffiness but also lightens up the overall dessert experience, making it all the more enjoyable.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers
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Crimp Securely: Ensure your turnovers are crimped well to prevent any delicious filling from leaking during baking.
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Avoid Overfilling: Stick to the recommended amount of filling. Overfilling can lead to bursting turnovers!
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Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This makes mixing the filling easier and ensures a smooth texture when spread.
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Parchment Paper: Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup after baking.
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Cool Before Glazing: Let the turnovers cool slightly before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting into a puddle.
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Perfect Egg Wash: A good egg wash contributes to that irresistible golden hue, so brush it evenly on each turnover before baking.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers Variations & Substitutions
Feel empowered to personalize your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers with these delightful variations that will surely enhance your baking experience!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use almond or oat milk in the glaze.
- Spice Boost: Swap pumpkin pie spice with a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for an aromatic kick.
- Nutty Twist: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the pumpkin mixture for an extra crunch and flavor elevation.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate mashed bananas or diced apples into the filling for a lovely blend of flavors and added moisture.
- Savory Option: Mix in a bit of crumbled feta cheese for a sweet-savory combination that’s unexpected but delightful.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free puff pastry available in many stores to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
- Chocolate Delight: Fold in chocolate chips into the pumpkin mixture for a luscious twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Extra Glaze: Drizzle with maple syrup instead of a glaze for a naturally sweetened finish that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Now you’re ready to let your creativity shine in the kitchen! Each variation is a delightful way to make this recipe your own. Enjoy the exploration!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy fall weeks! You can prepare the pumpkin filling and assemble the turnovers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice, then refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, take out your puff pastry squares, fill them, and crimp the edges. Bake straight from the fridge for 15-17 minutes until golden brown. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with minimal effort on the day of your gathering. Just remember to store them in the fridge to maintain their freshness!
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers
Room Temperature: Allow turnovers to cool completely before storing. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours but are best enjoyed fresh.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for about 5–7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their flaky texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked assembled turnovers on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy within 2 months; bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: If already baked and frozen, reheat in a toaster oven or oven to ensure they thaw and crisp up nicely, creating that delightful contrast of flaky pastry and creamy pumpkin filling again!
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe pumpkin for the pumpkin filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for pureed pumpkin from a sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin, rather than a large carving pumpkin. Look for pumpkins that are firm, heavy for their size, and free from blemishes. If using canned pumpkin, select 100% pumpkin puree for the freshest taste!
What’s the best way to store leftover turnovers?
Very! Allow the turnovers to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their flaky texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes before enjoying them again.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers?
Absolutely, you can! To freeze unbaked turnovers, place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm. Once set, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and enjoy them within 2 months. To bake from frozen, preheat your oven and add an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time for optimal results.
What should I do if my turnovers leak filling while baking?
No worries! If you notice a leak during baking, it could be due to overfilling or not crimping the edges well enough. Always crimp edges securely and limit the filling to the recommended amount. If it happens, just enjoy the extra bits of filling that bake onto the parchment—delicious too!
Are Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers safe for pets or those with allergies?
I recommend being cautious! These turnovers contain ingredients like cream cheese and sugar that can be harmful to pets. For those with allergies, check that your puff pastry is free from allergens like gluten or dairy, depending on personal needs. Always substitute as necessary, such as using dairy-free cream cheese for a safe alternative!
Delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Turnovers for Fall Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Unroll the puff pastry on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cut into 6 squares.
- In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir until blended.
- Spoon 1 teaspoon of cream cheese into the center of each pastry square, then add 1 tablespoon of pumpkin mixture on top. Fold and crimp edges to seal.
- Poke holes in the tops of turnovers and brush with beaten egg.
- Bake for 15-17 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly, then glaze with a mixture of sifted powdered sugar, milk, and a dash of pumpkin pie spice.