Pumpkin Crisp Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall, you simply must try this Pumpkin Crisp. It’s that golden, tender pumpkin filling topped with a irresistibly crumbly cinnamon streusel that creates a harmony of flavors and textures in every bite. The Pumpkin Crisp is deceptively simple yet incredibly satisfying, combining cozy spices and creamy richness that feels like a big warm hug on a chilly evening. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just craving something sweet after dinner, this versatile treat is sure to become a treasured favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Pumpkin Crisp plays a star role, from the silky pumpkin puree to the buttery cinnamon streusel that crowns the dish. Together, they build a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and texture that makes this dessert unforgettable and straightforward to prepare.

• Pumpkin puree: The heart of the dish, it provides that creamy pumpkin flavor and rich orange color.
• Granulated sugar: Used twice for a controlled sweetness in both the filling and topping.
• Large eggs: Help bind the filling for a smooth, custard-like texture.
• Pumpkin pie spice: A fragrant blend that gives the filling a warm, autumnal depth.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the filling.
• Heavy cream: Makes the filling luxuriously creamy without being too heavy.
• All-purpose flour: The base for the crisp topping’s crumbly texture.
• Cinnamon: Provides warmth and spice to the streusel topping.
• Unsalted butter: Melted to hold the streusel crumbs together and add richness.

How to Make Pumpkin Crisp

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and buttering a 12-inch cast iron skillet or a medium casserole dish. This makes sure your Pumpkin Crisp doesn’t stick and bakes evenly, with those edges turning beautifully golden and crisp.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth. Then stir in the heavy cream to create a silky, creamy base for the crisp. Pour this luscious filling into your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir with a fork until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. This topping, when baked, will add that crave-worthy cinnamon crunch on top of your pumpkin layer. Spread it evenly over your pumpkin filling.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide your filled baking dish into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the streusel topping turns a gorgeous golden brown. If you notice the topping browning too fast, gently cover the crisp with foil to avoid burning while the filling finishes baking.

Step 5: Let It Cool and Serve

After baking, allow your Pumpkin Crisp to cool for about 10 minutes. This pause lets the filling firm up just right, so it holds together but remains creamy. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate cozy dessert experience.

How to Serve Pumpkin Crisp

Garnishes

While the Pumpkin Crisp is wonderful on its own, a little topping can elevate the experience. Fresh whipped cream lightly dusted with cinnamon, or a scoop of creamy vanilla or cinnamon ice cream, adds contrast to the warm, spiced pumpkin and crisp topping. Chopped toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also lend a lovely crunch and sweetness.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with autumn-themed meals. Think roasted turkey or glazed ham, where the Pumpkin Crisp’s sweetness cuts through savory flavors perfectly. A cup of spiced chai tea or hot apple cider alongside the crisp makes for a magical fall dessert moment.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to dress up your Pumpkin Crisp for guests or special occasions, try serving individual portions in ramekins or mason jars. Top each serving with whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or nutmeg for a polished look. You can also layer the pumpkin and crisp topping in parfait glasses for a fun twist on traditional presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pumpkin Crisp keeps well in the fridge, covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and you can enjoy it cold or warmed up. Keep in mind the topping might lose a bit of its initial crunch, but the flavors become even more melded, which is a treat in its own right.

Freezing

You can freeze the Pumpkin Crisp before or after baking. For unbaked, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, freezing for up to 2 months. If freezing baked crisp, let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Pumpkin Crisp is in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through and the topping regains some crispness. Microwaving is quicker but may make the topping soft. Reheating with a little foil tent prevents excessive browning while warming evenly.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, fresh cooked and pureed pumpkin works beautifully! Just make sure it’s thick and not watery to keep your filling from becoming too runny.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour in the topping for your favorite gluten-free blend, and you’ll still get that lovely crumbly texture.

Can I prepare the streusel topping ahead of time?

Definitely! You can mix the streusel and store it in the fridge for a day or two, then add it fresh before baking your Pumpkin Crisp.

What’s the best way to serve the Pumpkin Crisp for a crowd?

Bake it in a large casserole dish or cast iron skillet, and then serve straight from the dish with spoons — it’s rustic and inviting, perfect for sharing.

Can I substitute heavy cream with milk?

Heavy cream gives the filling its rich texture, but you can substitute whole milk for a lighter version. Just expect a slightly less creamy result.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Crisp is genuinely one of those recipes that brings joy with every bite. It’s comforting, delicious, and wonderfully easy to prepare, making it a perfect fall dessert for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to make it and share it with your favorite people — trust me, it’ll become a new seasonal staple.

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