Pumpkin Crisp Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the warm, cozy spirit of fall, you absolutely must try this Pumpkin Crisp. It has that irresistible pumpkin pie filling that’s smooth, spiced just right, and enveloped in a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping that adds an amazing texture contrast. Trust me, every spoonful sings with autumn flavors and a little hint of buttery sweetness that will have you reaching for seconds (or thirds!). Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight treat, Pumpkin Crisp is the kind of comforting dessert you’ll want to keep in your baking rotation forever.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun with this Pumpkin Crisp, and the best part is how straightforward and pantry-friendly the list is. Each component plays a vital role, from the luscious pumpkin filling to the crunchy cinnamon topping that finishes it all off with a delightful snap and warmth.

• Pumpkin puree: The smooth base that delivers that classic pumpkin flavor and creamy texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and the crisp topping — just enough for perfect balance.
• Eggs: Help set the pumpkin filling into that luscious custardy layer.
• Pumpkin pie spice: The essential blend of warming spices that brings the pumpkin to life.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making sure nothing tastes flat.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle fragrant sweetness to elevate the pumpkin filling.
• Heavy cream: Gives the filling a rich, velvety consistency that’s utterly indulgent.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cinnamon streusel topping, providing structure.
• Cinnamon: Infuses the topping with cozy spice that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed into the topping for that perfect buttery crunch.

How to Make Pumpkin Crisp

Step 1: Preheat and prepare your baking dish

Start by heating your oven to 375°F and generously buttering a 12-inch cast iron skillet or a medium casserole dish. This ensures your Pumpkin Crisp doesn’t stick and also develops those deliciously crispy edges we all love.

Step 2: Whisk together the pumpkin pie filling

In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until smooth, then fold in the heavy cream. This mixture is going to transform into that creamy, spiced layer you can’t wait to dig into.

Step 3: Make the cinnamon streusel topping

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix with a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly. If it needs a little extra help to reach that perfect streusel texture, don’t hesitate to use a hand mixer briefly to break up the lumps.

Step 4: Assemble and bake the Pumpkin Crisp

Pour the pumpkin filling into your prepared skillet. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon streusel topping over the surface. Bake in your preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, until the filling is set and the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown. If you notice the topping browning too much before the filling is done, lightly cover it with foil to prevent burning.

Step 5: Cool and get ready to enjoy

Allow the Pumpkin Crisp to cool for about 10 minutes to let the filling firm up just enough for perfect scooping. This is your cue to get your spoons and favorite toppings ready!

How to Serve Pumpkin Crisp

Garnishes

A warm Pumpkin Crisp is even better with a little something extra on top. A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds wonderful richness and cool contrast. My personal favorite is cinnamon ice cream — it’s like a flavor hug that makes every bite unforgettable.

Side Dishes

While Pumpkin Crisp shines as a standalone dessert, it pairs beautifully with hot beverages like spiced chai, coffee, or a rich hot chocolate. If you’re serving it at a meal, consider lighter sides like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the sweet finale.

Creative Ways to Present

Pumpkin Crisp looks stunning served directly from a cast iron skillet for that rustic charm. For a more elegant touch, slice it into individual portions and plate with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted pecans. You can even serve it in individual ramekins for a delightful single-serving surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pumpkin Crisp covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will meld wonderfully, and the topping will soften slightly but remain deliciously tasty.

Freezing

This Pumpkin Crisp freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in foil or an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30–45 seconds or place the entire dish in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. To refresh the crisp topping, try a quick broil for a minute or two but watch it carefully!

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! When using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it until smooth. Just make sure to remove excess moisture by draining it well so your filling doesn’t become watery.

Is Pumpkin Crisp gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend in the streusel to make a gluten-free version that’s just as delicious.

Can I make the Pumpkin Crisp ahead of time and bake it later?

You sure can! Prepare the entire dish up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed when you’re ready to serve for fresh-from-the-oven goodness.

What’s the best way to ensure the streusel topping stays crispy?

A small trick is to make sure the butter is fully melted and well mixed into the dry ingredients. Also, serving the Pumpkin Crisp warm rather than cold helps maintain that wonderful crisp texture on top.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the Pumpkin Crisp?

Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled into the streusel topping add a lovely crunch and depth of flavor. You can also experiment with adding a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for some fruity surprises.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Crisp isn’t just a recipe — it’s a warm embrace on a plate. Its simple ingredients come together in perfect harmony to create a dessert that’s both comforting and exciting. I can’t recommend enough that you give this Pumpkin Crisp a try; once you do, it’s bound to become a beloved favorite that you’ll return to year after year.

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