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- 1 pre-made graham cracker or shortcrust pastry shell - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or freshly made) - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/4 cup brown sugar - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - 1/4 cup oats - 1/4 cup brown sugar - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon - Whipped cream - Pumpkin pie spice for sprinkling Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this pumpkin cream cheese tart shine. You start with a pre-made pastry shell. This saves time and keeps things simple. Next, the cream cheese needs to be softened. Soft cream cheese blends easily with other ingredients. Pumpkin puree adds that rich flavor. You can use canned puree or make your own. After that, you will mix in granulated and brown sugar. The sugars sweeten the tart and add depth. Two large eggs act as a binder. They help hold the filling together. Vanilla extract adds warmth, while pumpkin pie spice brings that classic fall flavor. Finally, a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances taste. For the streusel topping, you’ll need flour, oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. This mixture creates a crunchy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling. Optional garnishes like whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice make the tart look beautiful and festive. These simple touches elevate each slice into a treat. With these ingredients, you are ready to create a delicious pumpkin cream cheese tart that everyone will love. - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the tart bake evenly. - Prepare the pastry shell by placing it in a tart pan. This makes it easy to fill. - Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. This creates a nice base for your filling. - Incorporate pumpkin puree and sugars. Mix well to combine all the flavors. - Pour the pumpkin cream cheese mixture into the pastry shell. Spread it evenly for a nice look. - Prepare and sprinkle the streusel topping over the filling. This adds a crunchy layer. - Bake for 45-50 minutes until set. The filling should be firm and the top golden. - Allow the tart to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set up better. For best results, refrigerate for about an hour before serving. To get the best texture, start with softened cream cheese. Cold cream cheese makes it hard to mix. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before you use it. This way, it blends well with the other ingredients. Use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese until it's smooth and creamy. Mix slowly at first to avoid splatter, then speed up as it combines. Adding spices can take your tart to the next level. Pumpkin pie spice is a great start, but don’t stop there. You can add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm kick. Check the sweetness, too. Taste the mixture before pouring it into the crust. If it needs more sweetness, add a bit more granulated sugar or brown sugar. Presentation makes your tart look fancy. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream on top. A sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice adds a nice touch. For drinks, pair it with a warm spiced cider or a cup of coffee. The flavors complement each other well. Enjoy your delicious creation! {{image_2}} If you want a gluten-free crust, use almond flour or gluten-free biscuits. Many stores sell gluten-free options that taste great. You can also make your own with ground nuts and butter. For a dairy-free version, swap the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese. Look for brands that use cashews or coconut. These options work well and keep the tart creamy. Want to switch it up? Try flavored tarts like chocolate or caramel. Adding cocoa powder to the cream cheese mix gives a rich twist. You can also fold in toasted nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a crunchy texture. Consider adding a hint of citrus. A little orange or lemon zest brightens the flavor. Just a teaspoon can change the whole taste of the tart. Spices can change with the seasons. Add nutmeg or ginger for a warm winter feel. For spring, try a fresh herb like mint for a cool taste. Deciding between fresh or canned pumpkin? Fresh pumpkin gives a pure flavor. Canned pumpkin is easy and still tasty. Both work well, so use what you have. To store the pumpkin cream cheese tart in the fridge, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from absorbing other smells. You should store it in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to save some tart for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the tart cool completely. Then, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to stop freezer burn. You can freeze the tart for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To check if your tart is still good, look for any off smells, mold, or a change in texture. If it smells sour or has a watery layer, it's best to toss it. To keep the flavor and texture nice, slice and store pieces separately. This way, you can enjoy it fresh each time! Yes, you can make this tart ahead of time. It stays fresh for days. I recommend baking it a day before you serve it. After baking, let it cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. This will help the flavors blend well. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before slicing. If you need a substitute for cream cheese, there are a few options. You can use mascarpone cheese for a similar taste. Greek yogurt is another great option. It will make the tart a bit tangy but still creamy. Silken tofu can work too if you want a dairy-free choice. Just blend it until smooth. The tart can last about 4 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe to eat. If you notice any strange smells or changes in texture, it’s best to throw it away. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety. Absolutely! A homemade pastry shell can be even better. It lets you control the flavor and texture. You can use a basic pie crust recipe or a graham cracker crust. Just make sure it is baked and cooled before adding the filling. This step will ensure the tart holds its shape and tastes fresh. This pumpkin cream cheese tart brings together rich flavors and a perfect texture. You learned how to prepare it step-by-step, from mixing the filling to creating a crunchy streusel topping. I shared tips on enhancing flavors, dietary tweaks, and storage methods to keep it fresh. In the end, this tart is a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a twist, you can't go wrong. Enjoy the process and the delicious result!

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Tart with Streusel

Indulge in the flavors of fall with this delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Tart with Streusel. This easy recipe combines creamy pumpkin filling with a crumbly streusel topping, all nestled in a buttery pastry shell. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy treat at home, it will impress your friends and family. Ready to bake? Click through to discover the full recipe and make your own festive dessert that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

1 pre-made graham cracker or shortcrust pastry shell

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or freshly made)

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice

1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Streusel Topping:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup oats

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth.

      Add Pumpkin and Sugar: Gradually add the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt to the cream cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are combined and smooth.

        Fill the Pastry Shell: Pour the pumpkin cream cheese mixture into the prepared pastry shell, spreading it evenly.

          Prepare the Streusel Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly.

            Add Streusel to Tart: Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the pumpkin cream cheese mixture.

              Bake the Tart: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the streusel is golden brown.

                Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the tart to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing. For best results, refrigerate for about an hour before serving.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr 10 min | 8 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream on top and sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin pie spice for an extra festive touch. Enjoy!