If you’re craving the cozy flavors of autumn wrapped up in a dessert that feels like a warm hug, this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines the smooth richness of spiced pumpkin filling with a buttery, crunchy streusel topping that bakes up golden and irresistible. Whether you’re treating yourself on a chilly evening or bringing a comforting dish to a festive gathering, this pumpkin crisp captures all the warmth and sweetness of the season in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe lies in its simple yet beautifully balanced ingredients. Each one is chosen to enhance the creamy pumpkin base or create that perfect crumbly topping, making sure each spoonful bursts with seasonal flavors and delightful textures.
- Pumpkin puree: The heart of this dish, bringing earthy sweetness and creamy texture.
- Granulated sugar: Adds essential sweetness and helps balance the spices in both filling and topping.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the custard-like pumpkin base.
- Pumpkin pie spice: Infuses the filling with classic warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for that signature fall flavor.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and prevents the dish from tasting flat.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle floral sweetness that rounds out the spices beautifully.
- Heavy cream: Makes the filling luscious and silky smooth.
- All-purpose flour: The base for the crisp topping, bringing structure and that beloved crumbly texture.
- Cinnamon: Blends into the topping to echo the warm spice notes in the pumpkin filling.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed into the crumble, it delivers rich flavor and that golden, crispy finish.
How to Make Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot for baking. Grease a 12-inch cast iron skillet or a medium casserole dish, which will help the crisp cook evenly and prevent sticking. A well-prepared dish ensures your dessert slides out perfectly when it’s ready to serve.
Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract. This combo creates a flavorful, smooth pumpkin custard that’s bursting with cozy fall flavors. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream until you get a silky, homogeneous mixture that will bake up into a creamy, satisfying base.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir with a fork until the mixture forms crumbs. This crumbly topping adds a delightful contrast to the smooth pumpkin filling, giving the crisp that signature crunch and buttery richness.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pumpkin filling into your prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Then carefully sprinkle the cinnamon streusel over the top, making sure it covers the surface well so it crisps up beautifully. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the filling is set and the topping turns golden brown. If you notice the topping browning too fast, tent it with foil for the remainder of the baking time.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow your pumpkin crisp to cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time lets the filling firm up just right so you can serve perfect slices with ease. It’s best enjoyed warm, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra indulgence.
How to Serve Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches can take your Pumpkin Crisp Recipe from delicious to unforgettable. A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over the warm crumble is a classic pairing that adds cool contrast. Whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate the dessert to rich, decadent heights.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of cocoa, spiced apple cider, or even coffee. If you’re serving it as part of a larger meal, consider light, spiced drinks that complement the pumpkin’s warmth without overpowering your taste buds.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve pumpkin crisp in individual ramekins or mason jars, perfect for parties or gifting. A dusting of powdered sugar or chopped toasted pecans on top adds both visual appeal and a wonderful crunch. You can also layer pumpkin crisp with whipped cream and granola in clear glasses for a charming parfait-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, cover your pumpkin crisp tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week without sacrificing its fresh flavor or texture.
Freezing
This Pumpkin Crisp Recipe freezes well, making it a great option for advance preparation. Let it cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the crisp in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the topping is crisp again. Avoid microwaving when possible, as the topping might lose its delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Fresh pumpkin can be used, but you will need to cook and puree it first to get the right consistency. Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and consistently smooth, so it’s recommended for the best texture and flavor.
Is this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe gluten-free?
This recipe as written uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Can I make the topping nutty or add nuts?
Absolutely! Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping adds wonderful crunch and depth of flavor. Just mix them in with the flour and sugar before adding butter.
What type of dish works best for baking this crisp?
A 12-inch cast iron skillet or a medium casserole dish is ideal for even baking and easy serving. The cast iron helps achieve a beautifully browned topping and holds heat well.
Can I prepare the pumpkin filling and topping in advance?
Yes! You can prepare both parts earlier in the day or the night before, then assemble and bake fresh when you’re ready. Just keep the assembled crisp covered in the fridge until baking.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Crisp Recipe is a heartfelt celebration of fall flavors in their coziest form. With its creamy pumpkin filling and buttery, crunchy topping, it’s a dessert that feels like home in every spoonful. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or just need a sweet pick-me-up, give this recipe a try — it’s sure to become a beloved favorite.
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Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and delicious Pumpkin Crisp recipe featuring a smooth pumpkin filling spiced with pumpkin pie spice, topped with a buttery cinnamon streusel. Perfect for fall gatherings, this easy-to-make dessert bakes to a golden crisp in under an hour.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Filling
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- â…” cup heavy cream
Cinnamon Streusel Topping
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 12 tablespoons (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-inch cast iron skillet or a medium casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the pumpkin filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour this pumpkin filling evenly into the prepared dish.
- Make the cinnamon streusel topping: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the melted butter and stir using a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly and well combined.
- Assemble the crisp: Evenly spread the cinnamon streusel topping over the pumpkin filling in the dish, covering it completely for a nice crunchy layer after baking.
- Bake the crisp: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pumpkin filling is set and the topping turns golden brown. If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil to prevent burning.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the pumpkin crisp cool for about 10 minutes. Serve warm topped with ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best texture and flavor.
- To prevent browning too fast, keep a piece of foil handy to cover the crisp during baking if needed.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; rewarm before serving.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream to complement the warm spices.
