Pumpkin pie is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table, especially during the fall season. Our Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie recipe puts a unique twist on this beloved dessert by blending creamy cheese with rich pumpkin flavors. This combination creates a luscious texture and a delightful depth that sets it apart from the traditional pumpkin pie.
Originating from the Long Island region, this recipe has been a favorite for generations, cherished for its perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or simply craving a cozy treat, this pie promises to impress with every bite. Let’s dive into making this deliciously creamy and flavorful pumpkin pie that’s sure to become a new favorite in your dessert lineup.
Ingredients
To create our Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie, we carefully select each ingredient to achieve the perfect blend of creamy cheese and rich pumpkin flavors. Below are the essential components divided into the pumpkin filling, cheese layer, and crust for easy preparation.
For the Pumpkin Filling
We use a combination of spices and pureed pumpkin to capture that authentic autumnal taste with a silky texture:
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup evaporated milk
For the Cheese Layer
The creamy cheese layer adds a luscious dimension unique to this Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie, balancing sweetness with a subtle tang:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
For the Crust
A sturdy yet flaky crust provides the perfect foundation for our layered pie, ensuring every bite holds together beautifully:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
| Ingredient Group | Key Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Pumpkin Filling | Pumpkin puree, sugar, spices, eggs, milk | See individual quantities |
| Cheese Layer | Cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, egg | See individual quantities |
| Crust | Flour, salt, butter, ice water | See individual quantities |
Each element works in harmony to bring out the classic, rich essence of our Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie recipe. Let’s gather these ingredients to begin crafting this one-of-a-kind dessert.
Equipment Needed
To craft the Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool ensures precise preparation and baking for the signature creamy texture and robust pumpkin flavor.
- 9-inch Pie Dish
We recommend a glass or ceramic dish to evenly distribute heat while baking the crust and filling.
- Mixing Bowls
Use two medium-sized bowls—one for the pumpkin filling and one for the cheese layer. This separation helps maintain distinct flavors and textures before combining.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer
A mixer simplifies blending the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla to a smooth consistency while thoroughly incorporating the pumpkin filling ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accuracy in measuring ingredients like sugar, spices, and flour is crucial for the authentic taste and texture.
- Rolling Pin
For rolling out the pie crust evenly to fit the dish without tearing.
- Whisk
Useful for beating eggs and combining wet ingredients smoothly.
- Rubber Spatula
Helps scrape down mixing bowls to ensure all cheese and pumpkin elements integrate fully.
- Cooling Rack
Allows the pie to cool evenly after baking, preventing the crust from becoming soggy.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9-inch Pie Dish | Even baking of crust and fillings |
| Mixing Bowls (2) | Separate mixing of pumpkin and cheese layers |
| Electric or Stand Mixer | Blending ingredients smoothly |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Rolling Pin | Rolling pie dough evenly |
| Whisk | Beating eggs and mixing liquids |
| Rubber Spatula | Scraping bowls for full ingredient use |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling pie without soggy crust |
Prep Work
To create the perfect Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie we need to carefully prepare each component. The following steps ensure that the pumpkin filling, cheese mixture, and crust each reach their full delicious potential.
Preparing the Pumpkin
First, let’s focus on the pumpkin filling. Using smooth pumpkin puree is essential for that rich, creamy texture. Here’s how we prepare it:
- Measure 1 ½ cups of pumpkin puree ensuring it’s well drained if homemade.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree with ¾ cup granulated sugar and the signature spice blend:
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- Whisk together 2 large eggs until blended, then add to the pumpkin mixture.
- Slowly incorporate 1 cup evaporated milk, whisking constantly to create a smooth filling with a warm golden color.
Tip: Use a whisk to blend thoroughly for a lump-free, velvety pumpkin base.
Preparing the Cheese Mixture
Next, the star of our recipe—the cheese layer—adds remarkable creaminess and tang to the pie. Here’s how we prepare it:
- In a separate bowl, beat 8 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature until smooth.
- Gradually add ⅓ cup granulated sugar and 1 large egg, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract to enhance the richness without overpowering the pumpkin notes.
- For the best texture, use a stand mixer or electric hand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until fluffy and well combined.
Pro Tip: Softened cream cheese blends better and helps avoid lumps in our Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie.
Making the Crust
Finally, our 9-inch pie crust forms a flaky, buttery foundation that holds all filling layers perfectly.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Prep Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 ¼ cups | Sifted |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | |
| Unsalted butter | 8 tablespoons | Cold, cut into cubes |
| Ice water | 3 to 4 tablespoons | Added gradually |
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, quickly cut the cold butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-size pieces.
- Gradually add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough holds together without being sticky.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate at least 30 minutes to relax the gluten for easier rolling.
- After chilling, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch circle to line the pie dish evenly.
Remember: Keeping the butter cold is key to achieving that classic flaky texture in our pie crust.
By following these preparation steps meticulously, we set the stage for assembling and baking the Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie to perfection.
Directions
Follow these precise steps to assemble, bake, and set our Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie for a perfectly balanced dessert that combines creamy cheese and bold pumpkin flavors.
Assembling the Pie
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) while preparing the pie to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.
- Roll out the chilled pie dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle.
- Transfer the dough gently to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it firmly into the bottom and sides without stretching.
- Trim excess dough leaving about 1/2 inch hanging over the edge.
- Fold the overhang under itself and crimp the edges to create a decorative border.
- Pour the prepared pumpkin filling into the crust, spreading evenly with a rubber spatula.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture carefully over the pumpkin layer.
- Use a butter knife or skewer to swirl the cheese and pumpkin layers slightly, creating a marbled effect without fully blending them.
- Place the pie on the middle rack of the oven ready for baking.
Baking Instructions
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Bake | 375°F (190°C) | 25 minutes | Oven between middle and lower racks |
| Reduce Temperature | 350°F (175°C) | 35-40 minutes | Bake until knife inserted comes out clean |
- Monitor the pie closely during the last 10 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- The pie is done when the edges appear set and the center jiggles slightly but does not look wet.
- If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover edges with foil to prevent burning.
Cooling and Setting
- Remove the pie from the oven and place it on a cooling rack immediately.
- Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours to let the filling set fully.
- For best flavor and texture, refrigerate the pie for 4 hours or overnight before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for a true taste of the Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie magic.
Serving Suggestions
To fully appreciate the Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie, we recommend serving it with complementary flavors and textures that highlight its creamy cheese layer and rich pumpkin filling. Here are some thoughtful serving ideas to enhance your dessert experience:
Ideal Temperature for Serving
Serve the pie chilled or at room temperature to allow the custard and cheese layers to fully develop their flavors and creamy texture. After refrigeration, the pie achieves perfect sliceability and a refreshing finish.
Accompaniments to Elevate the Flavor
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds airy lightness, balancing the dense texture of the pie.
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg Sprinkles: Lightly dusting the top with ground cinnamon or nutmeg emphasizes the warm spices within the pumpkin filling.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast of cold and creamy against the spiced pie.
- Caramel Drizzle: A thin swirl of caramel sauce enhances the pie’s sweetness with its buttery richness.
Beverage Pairings
The flavors of our Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie harmonize well with:
- Hot Coffee or Espresso: The slight bitterness of coffee balances the pie’s sweetness.
- Spiced Chai Latte: Warm spices in chai echo the pumpkin pie’s classic spice blend, enriching the experience.
- Dessert Wine: A glass of late-harvest Riesling or ice wine complements the pie’s creamy texture and sweet profile.
Presentation Tips
- Serve slices on dessert plates with a garnish of toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch and visual appeal.
- Use a pie server to cut clean slices, preserving the marbled cheese and pumpkin layers.
- For gatherings, arrange slices on a rustic wooden platter to showcase the layered custard, inviting guests to savor each bite visually before tasting.
| Serving Element | Purpose/Benefit | Suggested Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Whipped Cream | Adds lightness, balances dense pie | 1–2 tablespoons per slice |
| Ground Cinnamon / Nutmeg | Enhances warm spice aroma | Light dusting per slice |
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Creates creamy contrast and temperature play | 1 small scoop per slice |
| Caramel Sauce | Adds buttery sweetness | 1 teaspoon drizzle per slice |
| Toasted Pecans/Walnuts | Provides crunch and garnish | 1 tablespoon per slice |
By incorporating these serving suggestions, we can highlight the unique qualities of our Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie for a festive and memorable dessert presentation.
Storage Tips
To preserve the rich flavors and creamy texture of our Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie, proper storage is essential. Follow these guidelines to keep your pie fresh and delicious for days.
Refrigeration
After baking and cooling the pie at room temperature for at least 2 hours, we recommend:
- Covering the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
- Storing the pie in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days to maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavor.
- Keep the pie on a flat surface to avoid any shifting of the cheese layer or filling.
Freezing
For longer storage, freezing is a great option:
- Wrap the cooled pie firmly with plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn.
- Label the package with the date for easy tracking.
- Store the pie in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To thaw, place the pie in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
| Storage Method | How to Store | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Cover with plastic wrap or foil | 4 to 5 days | Store on a flat surface to keep layers intact |
| Freezing | Wrap tightly with plastic and foil | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight in refrigerator for best results |
Serving After Storage
We find that bringing the pie to room temperature after refrigeration enhances the flavor profile and softens the texture of the cream cheese layer beautifully. If serving chilled, allow the pie to rest about 20 minutes outside the fridge to fully enjoy its luscious consistency.
“Proper storage is key to enjoying every bite of our luscious Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie just as freshly baked!”
Following these straightforward storage tips will keep your pie fresh and perfectly textured, ready to impress whenever you decide to indulge.
Conclusion
This Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie brings a fresh twist to a beloved classic, blending creamy cheese with rich pumpkin for a truly memorable dessert. It’s a recipe that invites us to gather in the kitchen and create something special together.
With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this pie is sure to become a favorite for holidays or any cozy occasion. Once you’ve tried it, we’re confident it’ll earn a spot on your go-to dessert list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie different from traditional pumpkin pie?
It combines a creamy cheese layer with classic pumpkin filling, offering a rich, smooth texture and a sweet-savory flavor balance unlike typical pumpkin pies.
What are the main ingredients needed for this pie?
You’ll need pumpkin puree, sugar, spices, eggs, evaporated milk for the pumpkin layer; cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and egg for the cheese layer; and flour, butter, salt, and ice water for the crust.
What equipment is essential to make this pie successfully?
A 9-inch pie dish, mixing bowls, electric or stand mixer, measuring cups and spoons, rolling pin, whisk, rubber spatula, and a cooling rack are key to preparation and baking.
How should I prepare the pumpkin filling?
Combine smooth pumpkin puree with sugar and spices, mix with eggs and evaporated milk to achieve a velvety texture, ensuring the filling is smooth and well blended.
What is the best way to prepare the cream cheese layer?
Use softened cream cheese and beat it with sugar, vanilla, and an egg until fluffy for a smooth, creamy cheese layer.
How do I make the pie crust flaky?
Keep the butter cold, work it quickly into the flour, and let the dough rest in the fridge before rolling it out for a sturdy yet flaky crust.
What are the baking instructions for this pie?
Preheat oven to 375°F, bake pie for 25 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake 35–40 more minutes, monitoring to avoid overbaking. Cool thoroughly before serving.
How should I serve the Long Island Cheese Pumpkin Pie?
Serve chilled or at room temperature with optional toppings like whipped cream, cinnamon, nuts, or caramel, paired with coffee, chai, or dessert wine.
How do I store the pie to keep it fresh?
Refrigerate covered for up to 4-5 days or freeze wrapped securely for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.
Can this pie be made ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal to bake a day ahead; refrigerate overnight for best flavor and texture, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.