There is something irresistibly cozy and heartwarming about this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe. It combines the silky richness of pumpkin purée with the satisfying crunch of a buttery oat topping, scented with a perfect blend of spices that make every bite feel like a gentle hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a dinner party or just craving a comforting dessert to enjoy solo, this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to bring that seasonal magic to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together to create incredible flavors and textures. Each component plays an essential role, from the creamy pumpkin base to the crisp, buttery topping that makes this dessert truly memorable.
- Pumpkin purée: The star of the dish, delivering that rich, velvety texture and classic fall flavor.
- Evaporated milk: Adds creaminess and depth without making the filling too heavy.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the earthiness of pumpkin with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Brown sugar: Gives a subtle molasses flavor and adds moisture to both filling and topping.
- Eggs: Bind the filling together for that custard-like consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Brings out the natural sweetness and adds warmth.
- Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger: These spices infuse the dish with its quintessential autumn aroma and flavor.
- Salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors perfectly.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the crisp topping, providing structure.
- Rolled oats: Add chewiness and a rustic texture to the topping.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Ensures the topping bakes up golden and rich.
- Chopped pecans (optional): For a delightful nutty crunch that complements the soft filling beautifully.
How to Make Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking or casserole dish so the pumpkin mixture won’t stick and clean-up is a breeze later on.
Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until you have a smooth, glossy mixture. The spices and sugars blend into the pumpkin base, creating the foundation of a perfectly balanced crisp.
Step 3: Prepare the Crisp Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then pour in the melted butter. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly and evenly coated. Toss in chopped pecans if you want to add an extra layer of texture and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin filling.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pumpkin filling into the greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the crisp topping over the pumpkin layer. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping turns a beautiful golden brown and the filling has set – firm but still luscious.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let your Pumpkin Crisp cool slightly on a wire rack to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to settle. This step also makes it easier to serve generous portions without everything sliding apart.
How to Serve Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream on warm Pumpkin Crisp transforms it from a simple dessert to an indulgent treat. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or chopped pecans on top for a picture-perfect finish that tastes even better than it looks.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee, making it ideal for cozy afternoons or after-dinner satisfaction. You could also serve it alongside a light, crisp salad if offering it at a dinner party to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the crisp in rustic ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt on the topping adds exciting flavor contrasts and invites guests to take that first delicious bite eagerly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your Pumpkin Crisp with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days. This makes it a convenient dessert to prepare ahead of time.
Freezing
You can freeze the crisp either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then bake from frozen by adding extra baking time. If freezing post-bake, portion it into sealed containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm leftover Pumpkin Crisp in a 325°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. To retain the crisp topping, avoid microwaving, which can make it soggy. A quick reheat and a scoop of ice cream makes it taste as fresh as the first serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?
Absolutely! Just roast and mash fresh pumpkin until smooth. Keep in mind fresh pumpkin contains more water, so draining excess moisture before using it will help maintain the texture of your crisp.
Is this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe gluten-free?
The classic recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free oats.
Can I make this dessert vegan?
Yes, by swapping evaporated milk with coconut milk or a plant-based creamer and using flax eggs or another egg substitute, you can enjoy a vegan version that still tastes amazing.
What is the best way to make the topping extra crunchy?
Chilling the topping mixture briefly before sprinkling it over the pumpkin can enhance its crunch. Also, using cold, solid butter and cutting it into the dry ingredients rather than melting creates a flakier, crunchier texture.
How can I adjust the sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugars slightly in both the filling and topping. The spices and pumpkin flavor remain robust, so cutting back sugar won’t compromise the deliciousness.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Crisp Recipe is truly a celebration of cozy fall flavors wrapped up in a simple, satisfying dessert. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging yourself on a quiet evening at home. Once you try it, this crisp will quickly become a beloved staple in your seasonal repertoire. So go ahead, get baking and enjoy the magic of pumpkin done right!
Print
Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pumpkin Crisp is a warm and comforting dessert perfect for fall gatherings. It features a smooth pumpkin filling spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, topped with a buttery, oat and pecan crumble that bakes to golden perfection. Easily made in a single baking dish, this treat is ideal served warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Filling
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Crisp Topping
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similarly sized casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make Pumpkin Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Pour this filling evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Crisp Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir the mixture until it forms a crumbly texture. If desired, fold in the chopped pecans to add extra crunch and flavor.
- Assemble and Bake: Evenly sprinkle the crisp topping over the pumpkin filling in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the pumpkin filling is set and firm.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pumpkin crisp from the oven and allow it to cool slightly to set further. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra decadent touch.
Notes
- For a nuttier flavor, you can substitute walnuts for pecans or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
- Make sure to use pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugars.
- Leftover crisp can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated before serving.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend and ensure oats are certified gluten-free.
- Adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the filling can enhance the fall spice flavor.
