Pumpkin Cream Cheese Breakfast Braid Recipe

If you’re in search of a breakfast treat that brings all the cozy vibes of autumn into one gorgeous, flavorful package, then the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Breakfast Braid is exactly what you need. This delightful pastry combines the perfect balance of fluffy crescent dough, velvety cream cheese, and pumpkin spiced sweetness, braided together and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. Whether you want something to impress friends at brunch or a comforting morning pick-me-up, this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Breakfast Braid brings warmth, texture, and that irresistible seasonal essence to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet purposeful ingredients is the first step toward baking this stunning breakfast braid. Each element plays its part, from creating a buttery flaky dough base to infusing that iconic pumpkin spice flavor that ties everything together beautifully.

• Crescent roll dough (1 8 oz. tube): The flaky, buttery foundation that makes this braid irresistibly soft and tender.
• Cream cheese (4 oz. slightly softened): Adds richness and smoothness to the filling, perfectly balancing the pumpkin.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup, divided): Sweetens the cream cheese filling and pumpkin mixture just right.
• Pumpkin pie spice (1 1/2 teaspoons): Brings that cozy, warm flavor essential to any pumpkin recipe.
• Pumpkin puree (3/4 cup): Adds a creamy texture and vibrant autumn touch infused with natural sweetness.
• Turbinado or raw sugar (2 tablespoons): For sprinkling on top, offering a crunchy, caramelized finish.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Used in the glaze to lend delicate sweetness and smooth texture.
• Additional cream cheese (3 tablespoons): Combines with powdered sugar for the luscious drizzle topping.
• Milk (1-2 tablespoons): Adjusts the glaze’s consistency for perfect drizzling.

How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Breakfast Braid

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dough

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This setup ensures even baking and easy cleanup. Roll out the crescent roll dough directly on the parchment and seal any perforations or holes by pinching them together to create one solid base for your braid. This step is crucial to keep your filling secure during baking.

Step 2: Make and Spread the Cream Cheese Filling

In a bowl, blend together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice until creamy and smooth. Spread this mixture down the center of your dough, leaving about four inches free on both sides. This rich cream cheese layer acts like a cozy cushion that perfectly complements the pumpkin topping.

Step 3: Combine and Add the Pumpkin Mixture

Next, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar, pumpkin puree, and the last 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. This creamy pumpkin blend goes right over the cream cheese filling, giving your braid that deliciously spiced and moist pumpkin flavor. Even spreading here is key to a balanced taste in every bite.

Step 4: Braid the Dough

Fold each end of the dough over the pumpkin filling, then carefully alternate folding the diagonal strips over the center, one by one. This braiding technique not only looks impressive but also seals in all the flavors and keeps your filling nestled inside while baking.

Step 5: Add the Sugar Topping and Bake

Mix the turbinado or raw sugar with 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and sprinkle generously over the braided dough. This topping will create a golden, slightly crunchy crust as it bakes. Place your breakfast braid in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until golden and aromatic—your kitchen will smell like a warm pumpkin patch!

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the braid bakes, combine powdered sugar, cream cheese, and milk until smooth and thick but still pourable. This glaze is the sweet finishing touch that adds creaminess and a glossy allure, making the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Breakfast Braid even more irresistible.

Step 7: Drizzle and Serve

Once your braid is out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously across the top. Slice and watch everyone savor the perfect harmony of pumpkin, cream cheese, and flaky pastry in every delightful bite.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cream Cheese Breakfast Braid

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans, a pinch of cinnamon, or even some edible autumn leaves made from fondant on top. These add texture and hint at holiday cheer, turning a simple breakfast into a festive centerpiece.

Side Dishes

This breakfast braid shines brightly paired with fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or even a piping hot cup of chai tea or coffee. The warm spices play beautifully against crisp, fresh sides and a comforting beverage.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Breakfast Braid on a rustic wooden board with autumn-themed linen. For entertaining, slice into smaller portions and arrange on a tiered stand alongside mini pumpkin muffins or spiced nuts to create a dreamy fall brunch spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Pumpkin Cream Cheese Breakfast Braid, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, it will keep fresh for up to two days, retaining that tender texture and moist filling.

Freezing

This braid freezes wonderfully before baking. Simply assemble as directed, then wrap tightly in plastic and aluminum foil, or place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to two months, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking fresh for a quick, decide-to-bake treat.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers warm, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 7 minutes. This will crisp up the pastry edges while keeping the inside soft and melty. Avoid microwaving to maintain that ideal texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent roll dough?

Absolutely! A homemade puff pastry or a yeast-based dough will work beautifully, though using crescent dough offers a shortcut while still delivering flaky, buttery layers that complement the filling.

Is the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Breakfast Braid suitable for a holiday brunch?

Definitely! Its festive appearance combined with warm pumpkin spices makes it a standout dish perfect for Thanksgiving morning, Halloween brunch, or any cozy gathering during fall.

Can I substitute the pumpkin pie spice?

You can make your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves if you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand. This allows you to customize the spice level to your liking while keeping that classic flavor profile.

What if I don’t have turbinado sugar for the topping?

Regular granulated sugar works in a pinch, but turbinado adds a nice crunch and caramel-like flavor that complements the spices beautifully. For a bit more texture, consider lightly toasting the sugar before sprinkling.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative, and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk in the glaze. The crescent roll dough would need to be checked for dairy content or replaced with a dairy-free pastry dough option.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly something magical about making and sharing a Pumpkin Cream Cheese Breakfast Braid. It captures the essence of the season in the most delicious way imaginable and transforms any morning into a cozy celebration. If you love warm spices, creamy textures, and beautifully braided pastries, this recipe is a must-try. Gather your ingredients, get your hands a little floury, and create a breakfast moment you’ll want to revisit again and again.

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