Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants

These Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants are a delightful treat that brings the flavors of fall right to your breakfast table! With their creamy pumpkin filling wrapped in flaky crescent rolls, they are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weekend brunches. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these mini croissants are sure to impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip these up quickly, making them ideal for busy mornings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and pumpkin creates a rich, flavorful filling that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, these croissants can be enjoyed any time of the day.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Their bite-sized nature makes them great for sharing at parties or family gatherings.
• Festive Touch: Great for the holidays, these croissants add a seasonal flair to your menu.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Knife
• Small mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when whipping the cream cheese and pumpkin together until fluffy.
• Baking sheet: A good baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of your croissants.
• Knife: An easy-to-handle knife is perfect for spreading the filling on each crescent roll without tearing it.

Ingredients

For the Croissant Base

• 3 tubes Pillsbury refrigerated crescent rolls

For the Filling

• 2 oz. cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 tbsp. pumpkin pie spice

For Coating

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (or powdered sugar)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

How to Make Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants

Step 1: Prepare the Crescent Rolls

Roll each crescent roll out on a clean surface and cut each tube lengthwise into two triangles.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, canned pumpkin, 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 1/3 cup granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes fluffy and creamy.

Step 3: Fill the Croissants

Using a knife, spread a scant teaspoon or half teaspoon of the pumpkin filling onto each crescent triangle. Be careful not to overstuff; this will make rolling them up difficult.

Step 4: Coat with Sugar Spice Mixture

In a small mixing bowl, mix together the remaining 1/3 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice. Roll each filled croissant in this sugary mixture for added sweetness and flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants

These delightful Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants are perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or a cozy brunch, serving them creatively can enhance your dining experience.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee or Tea – Pair these croissants with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast.
• Hot Chocolate – Enjoy them alongside hot chocolate for a sweet and festive treat.

As Part of a Brunch Buffet

• Fruit Salad – Add freshness to your table with a colorful fruit salad that complements the sweetness of the croissants.
• Yogurt Parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

For Dessert

• Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream on top brings an extra layer of indulgence to each bite.
• Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzling melted chocolate over the croissants adds richness and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants

Perfecting your Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants can elevate their taste and presentation. Here are some helpful tips.

• Bold Use Freshness – Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh cream cheese makes a noticeable difference in texture.
• Bold Don’t Overstuff – Avoid overfilling each crescent roll. A scant teaspoon ensures easier rolling and prevents spilling during baking.
• Bold Monitor Baking Time – Keep an eye on your croissants as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check for golden-brown edges around 15 minutes.
• Bold Cool Before Serving – Let them cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants

Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants pair well with a variety of side dishes that complement their sweet flavor. Consider these options:

1. Fresh Fruit Platter – A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the croissants.
2. Cinnamon Applesauce – This warm side dish echoes the spices in the croissant filling, creating harmony in flavors.
3. Veggie Sticks with Hummus – Crunchy vegetables offer a refreshing contrast and add a healthy element to your meal.
4. Savory Quiche – A slice of quiche provides a savory balance, making it great for brunch gatherings.
5. Granola Bars – For an on-the-go option, serve crunchy granola bars that offer texture alongside the soft croissants.
6. Cheese Board – Include assorted cheeses to create a delightful mix of flavors and textures that pair well with pumpkin spice notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants can be easy, but small mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Overfilling the Croissants: This can cause a messy bake. Only use a scant teaspoon of filling on each crescent triangle to prevent overflow.
• Ignoring Dough Temperature: If the dough is too warm, it may not hold its shape. Keep your crescent rolls chilled until ready to use for better results.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 375° before placing the croissants inside.
• Skipping the Sugar and Spice Coating: This adds flavor and texture. Ensure you mix and roll each croissant in the sugar and pumpkin pie spice blend for that signature taste.
• Cutting Uneven Triangles: Uneven shapes can cause inconsistent baking. Make sure your crescent rolls are cut into equal-sized triangles for uniform baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants in an airtight container.
• They can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants

• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• You can freeze them for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants.

Can I make Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and store it separately before rolling it into croissants when you’re ready to bake.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can easily make your own by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice in equal parts.

How do I ensure a crispy crust?

Make sure your oven is fully preheated, and avoid opening it frequently during baking to maintain consistent heat.

Can I customize the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Mini Pumpkin Pie Croissants are perfect for holiday breakfasts or brunch gatherings. Their delightful combination of cream cheese and pumpkin filling wrapped in flaky pastry is sure to impress anyone who tries them. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite spices or fillings!