Name: No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites
Ingredients: 8 ounces oz cream cheese (room temperature); 1/2 cup cup canned pumpkin puree; 1/4 cup cup dark brown sugar; 1 teaspoon tsp vanilla bean paste; 1 teaspoon tsp pumpkin pie spice; 8 ounces oz whipped topping (thawed); 2 boxes Athens mini fillo shells (30 cups in total); Praline pecans (chopped)

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There’s something incredibly special about the transition into fall, and for me, it always brings a craving for those cozy flavors that define the season. When I first made No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites, I was looking for a dessert that could capture the essence of autumn without heating up the kitchen. These delightful little bites are a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, making them an immediate hit at gatherings. As the leaves turn and the days get shorter, I find myself reaching for these treats time and again, whether for a Thanksgiving gathering or simply a cozy evening at home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites Is a Winner

They’re No-Bake!

One of the standout features of No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites is that they require no baking! This makes them a fantastic option for those warm fall days when you want something sweet but don’t want to heat up your kitchen. You can whip them together in no time and let them chill in the fridge while you prepare the rest of your meal.

A Flavor Explosion

With each bite, you experience a delightful combination of flavors. The creamy filling made from cream cheese and pumpkin puree is beautifully complemented by the sweetness of brown sugar and the warm spices of pumpkin pie spice. It’s like a little taste of Thanksgiving in every bite!

Versatile and Customizable

Another reason I love these bites is their versatility. You can easily adjust the toppings to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a sprinkle of chopped praline pecans for a nice crunch or a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness, you can personalize them to make them your own.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These bites are a conversation starter and are perfect for any occasion. From Thanksgiving dinners to holiday parties, they impress guests while being easy to eat. I often serve them at potlucks, and they always disappear quickly!

Great for Kids and Adults

Lastly, No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites are a hit with both kids and adults. Their bite-sized portion makes them fun and easy to enjoy, and the flavors appeal to everyone. I love watching my kids indulge in these treats—they’re always asking for seconds!

What to Buy for No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites

When it comes to the ingredients for No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites, each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy base, combined with the crispiness of the fillo shells and topped with crunchy pecans, ensures a delightful bite every time. Let’s delve into the essential ingredients that make this treat irresistible.

8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature: This is the creamy base of your cheesecake mixture, giving it a rich and smooth texture.
1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree: Adds that quintessential pumpkin flavor and a lovely orange hue.
1/4 cup dark brown sugar: Provides sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin.
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste: Infuses the filling with a warm vanilla flavor that enhances the overall taste.
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: A blend of spices that gives the cheesecake its signature autumn flavor.
8 ounces whipped topping, thawed: Lightens the mixture and adds a fluffy texture.
2 boxes Athens mini fillo shells: The crust that holds all the delicious cheesecake goodness, offering a crispy contrast.
Praline pecans, chopped: These add a crunchy topping that perfectly complements the creamy filling.

Cooking Instructions for No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites

Making No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites is an enjoyable process that you can easily do at home. The steps are straightforward, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious treat in no time. Follow these easy instructions to create your own bites!

In the bowl of an electric mixer, add cream cheese, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla bean paste, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix on medium speed until fully combined and smooth, which should take about a minute. Look for a creamy consistency with no lumps. This is your delicious cheesecake filling.
Next, gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined. You want to maintain the lightness of the whipped topping, so use a spatula and fold carefully to keep it airy.
Once your filling is ready, take your prepared fillo shells and fill each one with the cheesecake mixture. Don’t be shy! Fill them generously, but avoid overloading, as they can be delicate.
After filling the shells, sprinkle with chopped praline pecans for that added crunch. The texture of the pecans contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling.
If desired, finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet touch. This adds visual appeal and a hint of extra sweetness for those with a sweet tooth.
Once assembled, place the filled shells in the refrigerator to chill for at least two hours. This will help the flavors meld together and allow the filling to set slightly. If you’re short on time, even a short chill can help!
When ready to serve, arrange them on a platter and enjoy! These bites are best served cold, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.
Note: Keep in mind that the mini fillo shells are fully cooked, so they don’t require baking. You may have some leftover cheesecake filling. Don’t let it go to waste—turn it into a creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip!

Things Worth Knowing

Be Gentle When Mixing: When folding in the whipped topping, be careful not to overmix. You want to keep the mixture light and airy.
Chill Time is Key: Allowing the filled shells to chill in the fridge for at least two hours helps develop the flavors and gives the filling a firmer texture.
Presentation Matters: Take a moment to present these bites beautifully on a platter. Their appearance is half the fun!
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flavor.

Helpful Hints

To ensure your experience making No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites is as smooth as possible, here are some helpful hints:

Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days, but they are best enjoyed fresh!
Freezing: While these bites are best served fresh, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Pairing: These bites pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or spiced cider, making them a great choice for fall gatherings.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet filling, feel free to reduce the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to mix in a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Options for No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites

When it comes to serving No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites, the options are plentiful. Here are several great ideas to make the most of this delicious dessert:

Thanksgiving Dessert: These bites are a fantastic alternative to traditional pumpkin pie, offering a unique and fun way to enjoy the beloved fall flavor.
Holiday Parties: Serve them at holiday gatherings and watch your guests rave about these delightful treats. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to grab and enjoy.
Buffet Style: Place them on a dessert table alongside other sweet treats, allowing guests to sample a variety of flavors.
Kids’ Parties: Kids love these bites! They’re easy to handle and offer a deliciously sweet treat that’s sure to please.
Coffee Pairing: Serve with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon treat that warms the heart and soul.
Picnic Treats: Pack them for a fall picnic. They travel well and can be enjoyed outdoors as the leaves change color.
Gift Giving: Consider packaging a few in a decorative box as a sweet gift for friends or family during the holiday season.

FAQ

Yes, you can definitely make these bites ahead of time! I recommend preparing them a few hours in advance or even the day before. Just keep them stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

These bites are best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. After that, the fillo shells may lose some of their crispiness, but they will still be delicious!

Absolutely! While canned pumpkin puree is convenient, using fresh pumpkin is a great option if you have it. Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth before using it in the filling. This will give you a more natural pumpkin flavor.

If you have leftover filling after making the bites, don’t throw it away! You can turn it into a delicious dip by serving it with graham crackers, apple slices, or even pretzels. It’s a tasty treat on its own!

Conclusion

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Phyllo Bites are a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall in a convenient and tasty form. With their creamy filling and crunchy shells, they make any gathering special. So why not whip up a batch tonight? You’re sure to impress your family and friends with this easy and delicious dessert!