Pumpkin Crisp is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin pie with a crunchy streusel topping. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for fall gatherings, family dinners, or cozy nights in. The creamy pumpkin filling paired with the golden cinnamon crumb topping makes it a standout dish that everyone will love. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a comforting flavor that’s perfect for autumn.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with ice cream or whipped cream, making it suitable for various occasions.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert is sure to impress your guests at any gathering, from holiday parties to casual get-togethers.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare this Pumpkin Crisp in advance, making it convenient for busy days.
Tools and Preparation
To make the most of your Pumpkin Crisp recipe, having the right tools is essential. These items will help you create this delicious dessert with ease.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or casserole dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Fork or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet or casserole dish: Perfect for even baking and gives your Pumpkin Crisp a beautiful presentation.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
- Whisk: A must-have for creating smooth batter and mixing dry ingredients quickly.
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 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 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 and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the following:
1. Pumpkin puree
2. Granulated sugar
3. Eggs
4. Pumpkin pie spice
5. Salt
6. Vanilla extract
After mixing these ingredients, whisk in the heavy cream until smooth. Pour this mixture into your prepared skillet.
Step 3: Make the Topping
In a medium bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Cinnamon
4. Salt
Add melted butter to this mix and stir with a fork until crumbly. Evenly spread this cinnamon streusel topping over the pumpkin filling.
Step 4: Bake
Place your skillet in the oven and bake until the filling is set and the topping is golden brown, approximately 40 to 45 minutes. If necessary, lightly cover the top with foil if it browns too quickly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let your Pumpkin Crisp cool for about 10 minutes so that the filling can firm up. Serve warm topped with ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat!
How to Serve Pumpkin Crisp
Pumpkin Crisp is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your pumpkin crisp experience.
A La Mode
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that complements the warm spices in the pumpkin crisp.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream to add lightness and creaminess, balancing out the richness of the filling.
Cinnamon Ice Cream
- For an extra twist, pair it with cinnamon ice cream. The cinnamon flavor enhances the warmth of the pumpkin pie spices beautifully.
Caramel Drizzle
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top for a sweet touch. It adds a luscious layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
Toasted Nuts
- Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and nutty flavor, giving your dessert a satisfying texture contrast.
Fresh Berries
- Serve alongside fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a refreshing tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the crisp.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Crisp
To ensure your pumpkin crisp turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality pumpkin puree will enhance flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until they are combined to maintain fluffiness in the filling.
- Check Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when the pumpkin filling is set.
- Let It Cool: Allow your pumpkin crisp to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps it firm up and makes slicing easier.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add more spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra depth of flavor in your filling.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Crisp
Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin crisp can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some great options:
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These crispy veggies provide a savory balance against the sweetness of the dessert.Maple-Glazed Carrots
Sweet and earthy, these carrots complement pumpkin flavors while adding color to your plate.Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Their rich texture contrasts nicely with the crumbly topping of your pumpkin crisp.Apple Salad
A fresh apple salad offers crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall dining experience.Stuffed Acorn Squash
This dish brings seasonal flavors together while being visually stunning on any table.Green Bean Casserole
A classic side that adds creamy and crunchy elements, perfect alongside this fall dessert.Cornbread Muffins
Slightly sweet cornbread muffins will pair beautifully with your pumpkin crisp’s flavors.Butternut Squash Soup
A warm bowl of soup serves as a cozy starter that ties into autumnal themes perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pumpkin Crisp, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoiding these mistakes will help you achieve the perfect dessert.
- Using the wrong pumpkin puree: Always use pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling, which is pre-sweetened and spiced. This ensures the right flavor balance.
- Overmixing the filling: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a tough texture. Gentle mixing keeps your filling smooth and creamy.
- Not letting it cool: Cutting into your Pumpkin Crisp too soon can cause the filling to be runny. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes for better firmness.
- Ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on your crisp as ovens vary. Start checking at the lower end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
- Skipping the toppings: The crumb topping is essential for texture and flavor. Don’t skip or skimp on this part; it adds a delightful crunch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure it has cooled completely before covering to avoid condensation.
Freezing Pumpkin Crisp
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Crisp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings on high for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Crisp that might help you.
What makes Pumpkin Crisp different from pumpkin pie?
Pumpkin Crisp features a crumbly streusel topping instead of a traditional pie crust, offering a unique texture and flavor experience.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin until smooth before using it in your recipe.
How do I know when my Pumpkin Crisp is done?
Your Pumpkin Crisp is ready when the filling is set and the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Can I add nuts or other toppings?
Yes! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the streusel topping for added crunch.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Crisp is not only easy to make but also offers a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin desserts. You can customize it with various spices or toppings, making it perfect for any fall gathering. So go ahead, give this cozy dessert a try, and enjoy every warm, comforting bite!
Pumpkin Crisp
Pumpkin Crisp is the ultimate fall dessert that combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie with a delightful cinnamon streusel topping. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this easy-to-make recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. The luscious creamy pumpkin filling pairs perfectly with the crunchy crumb topping, especially when served warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this seasonal treat in no time!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately eight people 1x
- 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 ½ cups granulated sugar (for topping)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for topping)
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and butter a cast iron skillet or medium casserole dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth. Pour into prepared dish.
- In another bowl, mix flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in melted butter until crumbly. Evenly spread over the pumpkin mixture.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until set and golden brown on top. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the dish (about 100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 185mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
