Cream cheese is a handy staple, given that it can be used to rustle up a quick snack with crackers, be spread on a bagel for something more substantial, and used to make dips and spreads. It also has multiple uses in both sweet and savoury cooking.
In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, 1 egg yolk, 1/2 tsp vanilla, 3 tablespoons sugar, and a pinch of salt till just mixed. This should still be somewhat firm and not soupy. If too loose, place in fridge till needed. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pumpkin pie spice. In a medium bowl, combine pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, 3 eggs, 1 1/4 cups sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla.