Pumpkin Sopapilla Cheesecake Recipe

Dreamy Pumpkin Sopapilla Cheesecake Recipe for Fall Gatherings

Sweet memories of autumn dance through my kitchen whenever I whip up this delectable pumpkin sopapilla cheesecake that blends Mexican pastry traditions with creamy seasonal magic.

Crisp evenings call for comfort wrapped in warm, spiced layers of pure deliciousness.

Buttery crescent roll dough becomes a golden canvas for rich cream cheese and vibrant pumpkin flavors.

Cinnamon sugar sprinkles add a delightful crunch that makes each bite irresistible.

Sophisticated yet simple, this dessert connects generations through its nostalgic taste and easy preparation.

Weekend gatherings deserve something special, and nothing says love quite like sharing this incredible treat.

Slice into pure bliss and let the flavors transport you to a cozy culinary paradise.

Why Pumpkin Sopapilla Cheesecake Is Fall’s Coziest Dessert

  • Tackle Quick Comfort: Dive into a dessert that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the classic comfort of cheesecake, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings in minutes.
  • Celebrate Seasonal Charm: Embrace autumn's cozy spirit with a dessert that captures the essence of fall through rich pumpkin flavors and warm spices, making every bite a festive experience.
  • Master No-Fuss Baking: Simplify your dessert game with a recipe that requires minimal prep, uses convenient crescent roll dough, and delivers maximum flavor without complex techniques.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Enjoy a crowd-pleasing treat that works brilliantly for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual weeknight desserts, appealing to both kids and adults with its irresistible taste.

Everything You Need For Sopapilla Cheesecake Success

Base Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: A smooth and rich ingredient that creates the creamy texture of the cheesecake.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Provides a classic autumn flavor and adds moisture to the dessert.
  • Crescent Roll Dough: Serves as the pastry base and top layer, giving the dessert a flaky texture.
Sweeteners:
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cheesecake filling.
  • Brown Sugar: Creates a caramel-like topping with a deep, rich flavor.
Spices and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor profile.
  • Cinnamon: Provides a classic fall spice that complements the pumpkin.
  • Nutmeg: Offers a subtle, warm undertone to the dessert.
  • Ginger: Contributes a slight kick and enhances the autumn flavor.
Binding and Moisture Ingredients:
  • Egg: Helps bind the cheesecake filling and provides structure.
Topping and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Butter: Helps create a rich, golden topping and adds moisture.
  • Pecans: Offers a crunchy texture and nutty flavor as an optional topping.
Additional Ingredients:
  • Cooking Spray: Used to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal from the baking dish.

Easy Instructions For Pumpkin Sopapilla Cheesecake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Get your oven ready by heating it to 350°F. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray with cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create Creamy Pumpkin Magic

In a large mixing bowl, whip the cream cheese until it’s silky smooth. Then add in:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Granulated sugar
  • Egg
  • Vanilla extract
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Ginger

Blend everything until it becomes a perfectly combined, dreamy mixture.

Step 3: Build the First Dough Layer

Carefully unroll the first can of crescent roll dough. Press it gently into the bottom of the baking dish, making sure it covers every single inch of the pan.

Step 4: Spread the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling

Pour the creamy pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the first dough layer. Spread it evenly so each bite will be consistently delicious.

Step 5: Add the Top Dough Layer

Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and lay it gently on top of the cheesecake mixture. Stretch it carefully to cover the entire surface.

Step 6: Craft the Buttery Topping

In a small saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar until they become best friends and create a luscious mixture.

Step 7: Pour the Sweet Butter Glaze

Drizzle the butter and brown sugar mixture all over the top dough layer. Make sure it’s distributed evenly for maximum flavor.

Step 8: Optional Pecan Crunch

If you’re feeling nutty, sprinkle chopped pecans across the surface for an extra texture boost.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for a gorgeous golden-brown top and a set center.

Step 10: Cool and Settle

Once out of the oven, let your masterpiece rest and cool for 15-20 minutes. Patience is key for the perfect texture.

Step 11: Slice and Savor

Cut into squares and serve either warm or chilled. Get ready for a dessert that’ll make taste buds dance with joy!

Tips For Crispy Layers And Creamy Filling

  • Soften Cream Cheese Perfectly: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
  • Seal Dough Edges Carefully: Pinch the crescent roll dough edges together to prevent filling from leaking during baking and create a neat, clean appearance.
  • Prevent Soggy Bottom: Avoid overmixing the cheesecake filling and ensure the bottom dough layer is pressed firmly to create a crisp, sturdy base.
  • Enhance Flavor Depth: Toast pecans briefly before sprinkling on top to intensify their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch to the dessert.
  • Check Doneness Accurately: Insert a toothpick near the center – if it comes out clean with minimal moisture, the cheesecake is perfectly baked and ready to enjoy.

Tasty Variations Of Sopapilla Cheesecake

  • Autumn Spice Blast: Replace nutmeg and ginger with pumpkin pie spice blend for an intense seasonal flavor profile.
  • Chocolate Pumpkin Dream: Swirl melted dark chocolate into cheesecake mixture and sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
  • Caramel Pecan Paradise: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over finished dessert and add extra toasted pecans for crunch and richness.
  • Cream Cheese Frosting Finale: After cooling, spread cream cheese frosting across top layer and garnish with cinnamon sprinkles for extra decadence.

Delicious Sips To Pair With Pumpkin Sopapilla Cheesecake

  • Pair Creamy Caramel Latte: Complement the warm, spiced pumpkin cheesecake with a rich caramel latte that echoes the dessert's sweet and aromatic profile.
  • Serve Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream: Elevate the sopapilla by topping it with a boozy vanilla whipped cream that adds depth and smoothness to each bite.
  • Match Spiced Apple Cider: Balance the richness of the dessert with a warm, spiced apple cider that brings out the autumnal notes of cinnamon and nutmeg.
  • Garnish Candied Pecan Sprinkle: Enhance the dessert's texture by adding extra candied pecans on top, intensifying the nutty crunch and caramel undertones.

Storage Tips To Keep Sopapilla Cheesecake Fresh

  • Store the sopapilla cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss and absorbing other food odors.
  • Wrap the cheesecake securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Keep at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. If serving at a party or gathering, place on a covered dish to maintain freshness and prevent dust or insects from touching the dessert.
  • Cut the cheesecake into individual portions before refrigerating. This makes it easier to grab a quick serving and helps prevent moisture buildup when repeatedly opening the container.

FAQs About Pumpkin Sopapilla Cheesecake You’ll Love

  • What are sopapillas?

Sopapillas are traditional Mexican pastries made from fried dough, often served sweet or savory. In this recipe, crescent roll dough creates a similar pastry-like texture for the cheesecake base.

  • Can I use a different type of dough?

Crescent roll dough works best for this recipe, but you could potentially substitute with puff pastry or pie crust. However, the texture and taste might slightly change.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this recipe uses crescent roll dough which contains wheat flour. To make it gluten-free, you would need to use gluten-free crescent roll dough or alternative gluten-free pastry options.

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Pumpkin Sopapilla Cheesecake Recipe

Pumpkin Sopapilla Cheesecake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent Pumpkin Sopapilla Cheesecake blends Mexican and American dessert traditions into a creamy, spiced autumn delight. Rich layers of cinnamon-sugar pastry and smooth pumpkin filling invite you to savor each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 (8 oz) cans crescent roll dough

Main Spices and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger

Sweeteners and Toppings:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Whip cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy, then incorporate pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until fully blended.
  3. Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and carefully press into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring complete coverage of the pan’s surface.
  4. Spread the pumpkin cheesecake mixture evenly over the first layer of dough, creating a uniform filling.
  5. Carefully unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and lay it on top of the cheesecake mixture, gently stretching to cover the entire surface.
  6. Melt butter in a small saucepan, then stir in brown sugar until well combined.
  7. Pour the butter and brown sugar mixture over the top layer of dough, ensuring even distribution.
  8. Sprinkle chopped pecans across the surface if desired.
  9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the center is set.
  10. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
  11. Serve warm or chilled, cutting into squares for a delectable dessert.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother blending and easier mixing, preventing lumps in the cheesecake filling.
  • Substitute regular crescent rolls with gluten-free alternatives for those with wheat sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dessert.
  • Enhance the pumpkin flavor by adding extra spices like ground cloves or increasing cinnamon for a more intense autumnal taste profile.
  • Reduce sugar content by using sugar substitutes or cutting the amount by one-third for a less sweet version that still maintains delicious flavor complexity.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 32 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 44 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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