Pumpkin Crisp Recipe

Easy Homemade Pumpkin Crisp Recipe: Fall’s Sweetest Treat

Fall’s golden embrace brings out the magic of this delightful pumpkin crisp recipe that dances between comforting sweetness and rustic charm.

Warm spices weave through layers of creamy pumpkin and buttery, crisp topping.

Each forkful promises a symphony of textures that celebrates autumn’s rich bounty.

Crumbling pecans and brown sugar create a magical contrast against the smooth pumpkin base.

The dessert whispers memories of cozy kitchen moments and harvest celebrations.

Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this dessert transforms an ordinary evening into a memorable experience.

Prepare to savor every delectable bite of this seasonal masterpiece.

Pumpkin Crisp Pairings for Any Occasion

  • Pair with Creamy Vanilla Bean Gelato: Smooth, rich gelato complements the warm spices and adds luxurious creaminess to the pumpkin crisp's texture.
  • Enhance with Spiced Chai Latte: Aromatic chai tea's warming cardamom and cinnamon notes beautifully mirror the dessert's seasonal flavors, creating a harmonious taste experience.
  • Sip Caramel Bourbon Cocktail: Whiskey's oakiness and caramel undertones elevate the pumpkin crisp's sweetness, providing a sophisticated adult pairing that balances the dessert's richness.
  • Match with Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Homemade cinnamon-infused whipped cream adds an extra layer of spice and silky texture, intensifying the dessert's warm autumnal profile.

Pumpkin Crisp Twists Worth Trying

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Crisp: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the same delicious texture and flavor.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Crisp: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter to create a plant-based alternative that's equally rich and satisfying.
  • Low-Sugar Pumpkin Crisp: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of granulated sugar, and reduce the overall sugar content while keeping the classic pumpkin spice profile intact for those watching their sugar intake.
  • Nut-Topped Variation: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the streusel topping to add extra crunch and nutty flavor, creating a more complex and textured dessert experience.

FAQs

  • Is this recipe difficult to make?

No, this pumpkin crisp is beginner-friendly. The recipe requires basic mixing skills and simple ingredients. Even novice bakers can successfully create this dessert with clear step-by-step instructions.

  • Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

While canned pumpkin puree works best for consistent texture, you can use fresh roasted and pureed pumpkin. Just ensure it’s well-strained to prevent excess moisture that might affect the crisp’s consistency.

  • What type of sugar works best for this recipe?

Granulated white sugar is recommended. However, you can substitute with light brown sugar for a slightly deeper, caramel-like flavor. Just maintain the same measurement proportions.

  • How do I know when the pumpkin crisp is fully baked?

Look for two key signs: the pumpkin filling should be set (not liquid-like) and the streusel topping should turn golden brown. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.

What Makes Pumpkin Crisp a Cozy Favorite

What Makes Pumpkin Crisp a Cozy Favorite
  • Combine classic pumpkin pie flavors with a crunchy streusel topping, making it an irresistible treat that appeals to all ages and taste preferences.
  • Ideal for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy weekend desserts, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive, mouthwatering creation that screams autumn warmth.
  • Requiring just a few basic steps and standard pantry ingredients, this pumpkin crisp delivers maximum deliciousness with minimal effort, letting you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying.

Ingredients for a Delicious Pumpkin Crisp

Pumpkin Filling Ingredients:
  • Pumpkin Puree: A smooth, rich base that provides the classic autumn flavor and creamy texture of the dessert.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the pumpkin's natural earthiness.
  • Eggs: Bind the filling together and create a smooth, custard-like consistency.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: A warm blend of spices that gives the traditional pumpkin dessert its signature flavor.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall taste and balances the sweetness.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and complexity to the pumpkin flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, silky texture and adds luxurious creaminess to the filling.
Streusel Topping Ingredients:
  • Flour, Granulated Sugar, Cinnamon, Salt: These dry ingredients create a classic crisp topping with warm, sweet notes.
  • Melted Butter: Binds the streusel ingredients and provides a rich, golden-brown color when baked.
Serving Suggestions:
  • Ice Cream, Whipped Cream: Optional toppings that add extra indulgence and complementary creaminess to the dessert.

How to Make Pumpkin Crisp the Easy Way

How to Make Pumpkin Crisp the Easy Way

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F.

This gets everything ready for our delicious dessert adventure.

Step 2: Prepare the Cooking Vessel

Grab a cast iron skillet or casserole dish and generously coat it with butter.

This helps prevent sticking and makes serving a breeze.

Step 3: Create the Pumpkin Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Granulated sugar
  • Eggs
  • Pumpkin pie spice
  • Salt
  • Vanilla extract

Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.

Pour in heavy cream and mix until the filling looks perfectly blended.

Step 4: Spread the Pumpkin Layer

Transfer the pumpkin mixture into your prepared dish.

Spread it out evenly so every bite will be delicious.

Step 5: Mix the Crunchy Topping

In a separate bowl, blend:
  • Flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Cinnamon
  • Salt

Pour melted butter over the dry ingredients.

Use a fork or hand mixer to create a crumbly texture that looks like delicate sand.

Step 6: Add the Streusel Topping

Sprinkle the cinnamon streusel evenly across the pumpkin layer.

Make sure it covers the entire surface for maximum crunch.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven.

Bake for 40-45 minutes until the filling sets and the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown.

Pro tip: If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the pumpkin crisp rest for 10 minutes.

This helps the filling settle and makes cutting easier.

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an extra special treat.

The contrast of warm crisp and cold ice cream is pure magic!

Baking Tips for Pumpkin Crisp Success

  • Set the temperature exactly at 375°F to guarantee even baking and a golden, crispy topping without burning.
  • Generously butter your cast iron skillet or baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving of your delicious dessert.
  • Use a fork or hand mixer to blend melted butter with dry ingredients, creating those perfect crumbly streusel bits that add delightful crunch.
  • Keep aluminum foil nearby to gently cover the dish if the streusel browns too quickly, maintaining a beautiful golden color without scorching.
  • Let the pumpkin crisp rest for 10 minutes after baking, allowing the filling to set and making it easier to slice and serve with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream.

How to Store and Heat Up Pumpkin Crisp

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cover the pumpkin crisp with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and preserve its delicious flavor.
  • Wrap the cooled dessert tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to keep track of storage time.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Warm at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the topping from burning and maintain moisture.
  • Heat individual portions for 30-45 seconds on medium power. Watch carefully to avoid overheating and maintain the crisp's texture.
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Pumpkin Crisp Recipe

Pumpkin Crisp Recipe


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4.6 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Pumpkin crisp delivers autumn’s warmest embrace, blending creamy spiced pumpkin with buttery crumble layers. Sweet comfort meets seasonal delight, promising rich flavors that welcome you into cozy kitchen memories.


Ingredients

Scale

Pumpkin Base:

  • 1 (15 ounces / 425 grams) can pumpkin puree
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup heavy cream

Streusel Topping:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks / 170 grams) unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure optimal baking conditions for the pumpkin crisp.
  2. Grease a 12-inch cast iron skillet or medium casserole dish to prevent sticking and facilitate easy serving.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract, whisking until thoroughly blended.
  4. Incorporate heavy cream into the mixture, whisking until the filling achieves a smooth, creamy consistency.
  5. Transfer the pumpkin mixture to the prepared dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
  6. Create the streusel topping by mixing flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl.
  7. Pour melted butter over the dry ingredients, using a fork to blend until the mixture becomes crumbly and texture resembles coarse sand.
  8. Sprinkle the cinnamon streusel topping uniformly over the pumpkin layer, ensuring complete coverage.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, monitoring until the filling sets and the topping turns golden brown.
  10. If the streusel begins to darken too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
  11. Remove from the oven and allow the crisp to rest for 10 minutes, enabling the filling to stabilize and set.
  12. Serve warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream, or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for added indulgence.

Notes

  • Swap out heavy cream for coconut milk to create a dairy-free version that’s equally rich and creamy.
  • Use gluten-free flour blend in the streusel topping to make this recipe celiac-friendly without compromising texture.
  • Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel for extra crunch and nutty depth of flavor.
  • Reduce sugar by using monk fruit sweetener or stevia for a lower-calorie dessert option that still tastes decadent.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 51 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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