Pumpkin Crisp

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, then this Pumpkin Crisp is just what you need! It’s a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie, combining creamy pumpkin filling with a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping. This recipe has become a favorite in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. No matter the occasion, it never fails to bring smiles and warm hearts.

The best part? This Pumpkin Crisp is incredibly easy to make! You can whip it up in about an hour, and it fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream for an unforgettable treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this dessert ready to bake.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids love it! The combination of creamy pumpkin and sweet cinnamon is always a hit.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual get-together, this dish will impress your guests.
• Deliciously versatile: You can customize the flavors and toppings to suit your taste.
• Make-ahead convenience: It holds up well, so you can make it ahead of time and simply reheat when ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Pumpkin Crisp are simple and wholesome. Most of them are pantry staples, making this recipe accessible any time during pumpkin season!

For the Pumpkin Filling

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

For the Streusel Topping

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

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to get creative based on your preferences!

• Add nuts: Stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the streusel topping for an extra crunch.
• Spice it up: Try adding ginger or nutmeg along with the pumpkin pie spice for a more complex flavor.
• Use alternative sweeteners: Substitute some or all of the sugar with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetness.
• Top with fruit: Fresh cranberries or sliced apples can be added for a tart contrast against the sweet pumpkin.

How to Make Pumpkin Crisp

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F and butter a 12-inch cast iron skillet or a medium casserole dish. This step ensures that your Pumpkin Crisp won’t stick and will come out beautifully golden brown.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract. Then gently fold in the heavy cream until smooth. Pour this delicious mixture into your prepared skillet. This filling creates that rich pumpkin flavor we all love!

Step 3: Create the Streusel Topping

In another bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix with a fork until it’s crumbly. This topping adds that delightful crunch on top of our creamy filling which makes every bite so satisfying!

Step 4: Bake

Sprinkle your crumbly streusel over the pumpkin filling evenly. Bake for about 40 to 45 minutes until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. If your topping begins to brown too quickly, cover it lightly with foil to prevent burning.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let your Pumpkin Crisp cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to firm up nicely. I love serving it warm topped with ice cream—my favorite combination is with cinnamon ice cream if you can find it! Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting fall dessert.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Crisp

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Crisp is all about attention to detail and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out just right!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: If you have the time, roasting and pureeing your own pumpkin can enhance the flavor of your crisp, giving it a more natural taste.

• Don’t skip the cooling time: Allowing the Pumpkin Crisp to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving helps it set properly. This way, each slice holds its shape beautifully when served.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves along with the pumpkin pie spice for an extra layer of warmth and complexity in flavor.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Everyone’s preference for sweetness varies, so don’t hesitate to tweak the sugar levels based on your personal liking or dietary needs.

• Store leftovers correctly: To keep your Pumpkin Crisp fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days—if there are any leftovers!

How to Serve Pumpkin Crisp

Serving Pumpkin Crisp is as delightful as making it! You can present this warm dessert in several enticing ways that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A light and fluffy alternative that complements the flavors without overpowering them.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkle some toasted nuts on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
• Chocolate drizzle: For a touch of decadence, drizzle some melted dairy-free chocolate over each serving—it’s a delightful surprise!

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic choice! Creamy vanilla ice cream balances out the warm spiced pumpkin filling beautifully.
• Cinnamon rolls: Soft, sweet, and filled with warm spices, cinnamon rolls make for a cozy addition alongside your Pumpkin Crisp.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and provide a colorful contrast on the plate.
• Maple-glazed carrots: These sweet and savory carrots bring another layer of fall flavors to your table while harmonizing perfectly with pumpkin.

Enjoy every bite of this delicious Pumpkin Crisp, and let it become a cherished autumn tradition in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Crisp is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors any time. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want a cozy dessert at home, this recipe is easy to make ahead and store.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Pumpkin Crisp to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the Pumpkin Crisp cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap and cover with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Serve warm for the best texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Pumpkin Crisp!

Can I substitute pumpkin puree in this Pumpkin Crisp recipe?

Yes! If you don’t have canned pumpkin puree, you can use homemade pumpkin puree made from roasted fresh pumpkins. Just ensure it’s smooth and well-drained.

How do I make my Pumpkin Crisp more flavorful?

Enhance flavors by adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the pumpkin pie spice or incorporating chopped pecans into the streusel topping for added crunch!

Can I use a different type of pan for my Pumpkin Crisp?

Absolutely! While a cast iron skillet is ideal, you can also use an 8×8 inch baking dish or another oven-safe dish. Just keep an eye on baking time as it may vary slightly.

What should I serve with my Pumpkin Crisp?

This delightful dessert pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. For a twist, try cinnamon ice cream for extra warmth!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Crisp! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of fall flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to treat yourself!