Pumpkin Delight

Pumpkin Delight Recipe - A Delicious Dessert Made with Graham Crackers and Cream Cheese

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 12

Introduction

Pumpkin Delight is a delicious and creamy dessert that is perfect for the fall season. This recipe combines the flavors of pumpkin, spices, and cream cheese to create a rich and satisfying treat that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

The exact origins of Pumpkin Delight are unknown, but pumpkin has been a popular ingredient in desserts for centuries. Pumpkin pie, a traditional American dessert, has been enjoyed since the early colonial days. This recipe puts a unique twist on the classic pumpkin flavor by incorporating cream cheese and spices for a creamy and decadent dessert.

Ingredients

graham crackers
0.25 cup of melted diet margarine
8 oz (227 g) of soft lite cream cheese
1 large can of 100% pumpkin
1 tsp of cinnamon
0.25 tsp of cloves
0.25 tsp of allspice
0.5 tsp of nutmeg
0.5 cup of brown sugar Twin
0.5 cup of skim milk
2 packs of sugar-free instant pudding (vanilla flavor)
12 oz (340 g) of lite cool whip

How to prepare

Place whole graham crackers in a 13 x 9 inch pan.
Melt margarine and brush it over the crackers.
Put cream cheese in a bowl and beat it with an electric mixer.
Mix spices in pumpkin and add it to the cream cheese.
Beat the mixture together.
Add Sugar Twin, milk, and sprinkle in dry pudding mix.
Mix in the pumpkin and cream cheese mixture.
Beat until well blended.
Fold in Cool Whip.
Pour the mixture into the pan and spread it over the crackers.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers or a different gluten-free crust option.
Add chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for added texture and flavor.
Experiment with different spices such as ginger or cardamom for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to refrigerate the dessert overnight to allow the flavors to meld together and the dessert to set properly.

- You can customize the spices in this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to adjust the amounts of cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg to your liking.

- For a lower calorie version, you can use reduced-fat or fat-free cream cheese and Cool Whip.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pumpkin Delight chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent treat. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires no baking and is simple to prepare. The dessert sets in the refrigerator overnight, allowing the flavors to develop and the dessert to firm up.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use regular cream cheese and Cool Whip if you prefer.

- If you don't have Sugar Twin, you can use regular sugar or a sugar substitute of your choice.

Make Ahead Tips

Pumpkin Delight can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days before serving. This makes it a convenient dessert option for parties or gatherings.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Pumpkin Delight in individual dessert cups or ramekins for a more elegant presentation. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pumpkin Delight pairs well with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting dessert experience. You can also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Pumpkin Delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply allow the dessert to come to room temperature or enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pumpkin Delight contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pumpkin Delight contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pumpkin Delight contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Pumpkin Delight contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Pumpkin is a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. This dessert provides a good amount of these essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese and Cool Whip) and gluten (graham crackers). Please be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions.

Summary

Pumpkin Delight is a moderately high-carb and moderate-fat dessert that provides a good amount of essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Pumpkin Delight is a creamy and indulgent dessert that is perfect for the fall season. With a rich pumpkin flavor, warm spices, and a creamy texture, this dessert is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this delicious treat as a sweet ending to any meal or as a special treat for a holiday gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued by its unique combination of flavors and ingredients. It was given to me by a dear friend who had learned it from her grandmother many years ago. As soon as I read through the recipe, I knew I had to try it out for myself.

I remember that day vividly - the sun was shining, and a gentle breeze was blowing through the kitchen window. I gathered all the necessary ingredients: pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, flour, eggs, and butter. As I began to mix everything together, the sweet aroma of pumpkin and spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As the Pumpkin Delight baked in the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. I had a feeling that this dish would become a favorite among my family and friends. When it was finally done, I took it out of the oven and let it cool before cutting into it.

The first bite was pure bliss. The creamy texture of the pumpkin combined with the warm spices was like a hug for my taste buds. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made this Pumpkin Delight countless times, each time tweaking the recipe ever so slightly to make it my own. I have shared it with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have become fast friends after tasting a slice of this delicious dessert.

One of my fondest memories of making this dish was when my grandchildren came over for a visit. They had never tried Pumpkin Delight before, and I was eager to share my love for this recipe with them. As we gathered in the kitchen, I showed them how to mix the ingredients together and explained the importance of patience and precision when it came to baking.

As the Pumpkin Delight baked in the oven, the children's eyes lit up with excitement. They couldn't wait to taste the finished product. When it was finally done, I cut each of them a slice and watched as their faces lit up with delight. They loved it just as much as I did, and I knew that this recipe would be passed down through generations to come.

I often think back to that day and smile at the memory of my grandchildren's joy as they savored each bite of Pumpkin Delight. It warms my heart to know that this recipe has brought so much happiness to those I love.

As I sit here now, looking through my recipe box filled with years of culinary adventures, I am grateful for the special moments that this Pumpkin Delight has brought into my life. It is more than just a dessert - it is a reminder of the love and connection that food can bring to us all.

So, the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try, I urge you to give this Pumpkin Delight a chance. Who knows, it just might become a cherished tradition in your family, just like it has in mine.