This Pumpkin Crisp recipe is the perfect fall dessert, blending a creamy pumpkin pie filling with a delightful cinnamon streusel topping. It’s not only delicious but also easy to make, making it an ideal treat for gatherings, family dinners, or cozy nights at home. The warm flavors of pumpkin and spices will surely become your go-to for autumn celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dessert in no time.
- Deliciously Comforting: The combination of creamy pumpkin filling and crunchy streusel topping creates a comforting dish that warms the soul.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a fall gathering, or just a regular family dinner, this Pumpkin Crisp fits right in.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat that everyone will love.
- Great Make-Ahead Dessert: You can prepare it in advance and bake it right before serving, saving time on busy days.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Pumpkin Crisp successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will help streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or medium casserole dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Fork or hand mixer
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Ideal for even baking and adds a rustic charm to your presentation.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a light and airy filling by thoroughly blending ingredients.
- Fork or hand mixer: Perfect for creating that crumbly texture in the streusel topping.
Ingredients
This is the original Pumpkin Crisp recipe, an easy fall dessert made with a creamy pumpkin pie filling and a golden cinnamon streusel crumb topping baked on top. Served warm with ice cream, it will be your new favorite way to enjoy pumpkin pie!
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)
How to Make Pumpkin Crisp
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Butter a 12-inch cast iron skillet or a medium casserole dish. Set aside for later use.
Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. Pumpkin puree
2. Granulated sugar
3. Eggs
4. Pumpkin pie spice
5. Salt
6. Vanilla extract
After mixing well, whisk in the heavy cream until smooth. Pour this mixture into your prepared skillet.
Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping
In another medium bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Cinnamon
4. Salt
Add the melted butter to this mixture and stir with a fork until crumbly. Spread this cinnamon streusel evenly over the pumpkin filling.
Step 4: Bake
Place your skillet in the preheated oven and bake until the filling is set and the topping is golden brown (about 40 to 45 minutes). If necessary, cover it lightly with foil if browning too quickly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes so that the filling firms up slightly. Serve warm topped with ice cream or whipped cream—cinnamon ice cream is particularly delightful if you can find it!
How to Serve Pumpkin Crisp
Serving Pumpkin Crisp is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and creating a delightful experience. This warm dessert pairs wonderfully with various toppings and accompaniments that elevate its taste.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: Adds a spicy twist that enhances the warm spices in the crisp.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it balances the richness of the pumpkin filling.
Add a Drizzle
- Caramel Sauce: A sweet drizzle brings an indulgent caramel flavor that contrasts beautifully with the pumpkin.
- Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, this adds a rich and decadent layer to your dessert.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Hot Coffee: The bitterness of coffee offsets the sweetness of Pumpkin Crisp, making for a perfect pairing.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai enhance the flavors of the pumpkin dish.
Create a Dessert Platter
- Fresh Fruit: Slices of apples or pears add freshness and texture alongside your Pumpkin Crisp.
- Nuts: A handful of toasted pecans or walnuts can provide crunch and additional flavor.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Crisp
To ensure your Pumpkin Crisp turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will help you achieve that ideal balance of creamy filling and crunchy topping.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality pumpkin puree make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t skip chilling: Allowing it to cool for at least 10 minutes helps set the filling, making it easier to serve.
- Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your crisp; if it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference for more warmth or sweetness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Crisp
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Crisp can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter flavor contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the crisp.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: Another fall favorite that complements the pumpkin theme beautifully.
- Apple Salad: A refreshing apple salad adds brightness and crunch alongside your dessert.
- Pecan Pie Bars: For those who love nuts, these bars bring another layer of sweetness and texture.
- Maple Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness mirrors that of Pumpkin Crisp, making them a delightful pairing.
- Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses can provide savory notes that balance out the sweet dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pumpkin Crisp can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes to avoid.
- Using the wrong pumpkin puree: Ensure you use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter your recipe’s flavor.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure your ingredients are exact for the best texture and taste.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allowing your Pumpkin Crisp to cool for 10 minutes helps the filling set properly. Skipping this step can lead to a runny dessert.
- Overbaking or underbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time. If the top is golden brown but the filling isn’t set, check it with a toothpick. You want it firm but not dry.
- Neglecting toppings: While it’s delicious on its own, don’t forget to add ice cream or whipped cream for that extra layer of flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up to prevent condensation.
Freezing Pumpkin Crisp
- You can freeze Pumpkin Crisp for up to 2 months.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for best results.
Reheating Pumpkin Crisp
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and warm in increments of 30 seconds until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering it briefly with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Crisp.
What is Pumpkin Crisp?
Pumpkin Crisp is an easy fall dessert featuring creamy pumpkin pie filling topped with a crunchy streusel crumb topping. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings!
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin; just make sure it’s properly cooked and pureed to achieve the right consistency in your Pumpkin Crisp.
How do I know when my Pumpkin Crisp is done?
Your Pumpkin Crisp should be set in the center and have a golden-brown topping. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
Can I customize my Pumpkin Crisp?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even swap some spices according to your taste preference.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Crisp recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It brings warmth and comfort during those chilly fall evenings. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or mix-ins to make it your own!
Pumpkin Crisp
Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Crisp recipe. Combining a creamy pumpkin filling with a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping, this dessert is the perfect way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or enjoying a cozy night at home, this easy-to-make treat will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an extra layer of indulgence. With its deliciously spiced profile and simple preparation, this Pumpkin Crisp will quickly become a staple in your autumn dessert repertoire.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 12
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 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
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and butter a cast iron skillet or casserole dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix in heavy cream until smooth, then pour into the prepared skillet.
- In another bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in melted butter until crumbly and sprinkle over the pumpkin mixture.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until set and golden brown on top. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
