This 4-ingredient Pumpkin Cream Cheese is a lightly sweetened cream cheese spread made with real pumpkin and warm pumpkin pie spice. Spread it on bagels and toast, or swirl it into brownies, quick breads, and bars for an easy seasonal twist.
The Easiest Pumpkin Recipe You’ll Make This Fall
If you ever end up with half a can of pumpkin and wonder what to do with it, this pumpkin-flavored cream cheese is the perfect solution. It’s inexpensive, quick to make, and captures that cozy pumpkin spice flavor without the store-bought price.
I usually see premade pumpkin cream cheese in specialty stores, but making it at home is simple and satisfying. After a few experiments I settled on a recipe that balances pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice with smooth cream cheese.
Why we love this recipe:
✔ Just 4 Ingredients: Cream cheese, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice—easy and pantry-friendly.
✔ Fast to Make: With an electric hand mixer the spread comes together in about five minutes.
✔ Versatile: Use it as a spread, a dip, or a baking swirl for quick breads, brownies, or bars.
Enjoy!
-Katie
You’ll Need Just 4 Ingredients
This pumpkin cream cheese spread comes together with minimal ingredients. See the recipe card below for exact measurements.
- Cream Cheese — Bring cream cheese to room temperature for easy mixing; cubing it speeds up softening.
- Pumpkin Puree — Homemade or store-bought pumpkin puree both work well.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice — Adjust to taste; you can use a DIY blend if needed.
- Brown Sugar — Adds a touch of caramel-like sweetness that complements the pumpkin.
How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese in 2 Steps
- Combine ingredients. Measure the cream cheese, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar into a mixing bowl.
- Beat until fluffy. Use an electric hand mixer and stop occasionally to scrape down the bowl so everything is evenly combined.
Tip: A silicone spatula makes it easy to scrape the sides and get a smooth, even texture.
Storage Instructions
Store the pumpkin cream cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This mixture does not freeze well, so keep it chilled and use within the recommended timeframe.
Tips for Success
- Use full-fat cream cheese. It gives the best flavor and a stable, creamy texture.
- Avoid microwaving to soften. Microwaving can overheat the cream cheese; instead allow it to come to room temperature or cut into small cubes to soften faster.
- Taste and adjust. Add more pumpkin pie spice or brown sugar to suit your preference for spice and sweetness.
More Pumpkin Ideas
If you enjoy this spread, try it in quick breads, on muffins, or as a baking swirl. It’s an easy way to add pumpkin flavor to many treats.
Ways to Use It
Here are some simple, delicious ways to enjoy pumpkin cream cheese:
- As a dip for apple slices or fresh fruit.
- Spread on a cinnamon or pumpkin bagel for breakfast.
- As a filling for cakes or cupcakes.
- Swirled into brownies or cookie bars before baking.
- Spread on toast, English muffins, or quick breads.
- As a snack dip for graham crackers or ginger cookies.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Recipe
8 servings
10 minutes
10 minutes
A slightly sweet, warmly spiced cream cheese spread made with pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice.
Ingredients
- 1 – 8-ounce package cream cheese (softened)
- 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese to room temperature.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar.
- Beat with an electric hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, scraping the bowl as needed.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
- Use within 2–4 days. Do not freeze.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8
Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 118
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 29mg
Sodium: 91mg
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 2g
Try Flavoring Your Cream Cheese with Pumpkin
When you want a quick, tasty way to use canned pumpkin puree, this pumpkin cream cheese is an easy winner. It’s great for breakfasts, snacks, and baking additions.
Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment and review to let others know how it went—your feedback is appreciated.
Share Your Creations!
If you share a photo, tag the creator on Instagram @goodlifeeats with #goodlifeeatsrecipes to show what you made.