Pumpkin Crisp
When the air turns crisp and the leaves transform into fireworks of gold and crimson, there’s nothing quite like the scent of a wholesome, warm dessert baking in the oven. Picture a cozy kitchen filled with the warm aroma of cinnamon and spice, promising comfort with every bite. One treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall is the stunning Pumpkin Crisp Recipe. Imagine combining the velvety, spiced pumpkin filling similar to pumpkin pie but without the fuss of a crust, all topped with a delightful crunchy brown sugar crumble. This dish isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the season that brings family and friends together.
Table of Contents
Growing up, Thanksgiving was always a magical time filled with laughter, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious desserts. My aunt would whip up a classic pumpkin crisp that disappeared faster than you could say “pumpkin spice.” Each bite brought back memories of gratitude and joy, and those fond recollections inspired me to create my own version of this delightful dish. As you gather around the table, this pumpkin crisp will not just satisfy your sweet tooth but also weave a rich tapestry of warmth and memories, making it the perfect fall dessert!
Why This Is The Best Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
This Pumpkin Crisp Recipe is not only quick and straightforward—prepare it in just 20 minutes with a total cooking time of about 50 minutes—but it also bursts with irresistible flavors that are sure to please any crowd. The creamy pumpkin filling, combined with the crunchy brown sugar topping, creates an extraordinary balance of textures. Visually, its warm golden hue invites you to dig right in. It’s versatile too! Serve it as a comforting breakfast, a satisfying dessert after dinner, or a sweet snack when the craving strikes. Plus, for those watching dietary restrictions, it can be adapted to fit gluten-free and dairy-free needs, allowing everyone to share in the joy of this seasonal delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree: Make sure to choose pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, as the latter includes added sugars and spices that can alter the recipe’s flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute homemade pumpkin puree, which provides a fresh taste.
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk: This ingredient adds creaminess and sweetness to the pumpkin mixture. For a lighter option, you can use a dairy-free version or coconut cream if you want a tropical twist.
2 large eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent, providing structure and stability to the filling. Room temperature eggs mix more easily.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the pumpkin and the topping, enhancing all flavors harmoniously.
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: A key player for that classic fall flavor. You can use a store-bought blend or mix your own from cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar: This ingredient adds moisture and a lovely caramel flavor to the topping. Light or dark brown sugar works well—dark brown will give a more pronounced molasses flavor.
2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour: The base of the streusel topping. For a gluten-free option, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
½ teaspoon salt: Another touch of salt enhances the flavor of the topping.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: This warming spice brings a delightful earthiness and sweetness to the crumble, complementing the pumpkin beautifully.
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: Just a bit more of this aromatic blend enhances the flavor profile of the crisp.
12 tablespoons (170g) unsalted butter, melted: This binds the topping ingredients together, resulting in a crumbly texture. Using unsalted butter helps control the saltiness of the dish.
How to Make Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your pumpkin crisp bakes evenly. Next, grab a 10-inch deep-dish pie plate—if you don’t have one, a 9×9-inch pan (with at least 3-inch sides) or a 9×13-inch pan works perfectly. Lightly spray it with nonstick baking spray to prevent any sticky situations, making it easier to slice and serve the crisp later.
Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, salt, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth. The combination of these ingredients creates a luscious filling, reminiscent of the autumn season. Pour this lovely mixture into the prepared pan, ensuring it reaches the edges and settles evenly in the bottom. Your kitchen will start to smell delightful at this stage!
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, and cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients before adding the melted butter allows for uniform distribution, ensuring every bite of the topping is perfectly sweet and spiced. Once combined, pour in the melted butter. Use a hand mixer or get your hands in there to blend everything until it resembles coarse crumbs. The texture should be crumbly but still stick together when pressed.
Sprinkle Topping Evenly
Now, it’s time for the magic! Sprinkle the crumbly topping generously over the pumpkin mixture in the pan. Make sure to distribute it evenly so that every bite has a fair share of that delicious brown sugar crunch. The topping creates a delightful contrast to the smooth pumpkin filling.
Bake Until Golden
Pop the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes—the top will turn a dark golden brown, and the edges will puff up nicely. To check for doneness, gently shake the pan; if the center doesn’t jiggle and a toothpick inserted comes out clean, it’s ready to come out. The scent emanating from the oven will draw your family to the kitchen!
Cool Before Serving
Remove the pumpkin crisp from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step helps the filling to set up a bit more, making it easier to slice. Trust me, the wait is worth it! It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful treat that everyone will love.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter is truly melted, but not too hot. If it’s too warm, it can make your topping greasy.
- Use freshly ground spices if possible. They pack a more intense flavor punch!
- Don’t skip the cooling time; it helps the filling firm up.
- For a unique twist, consider adding chopped nuts or even dried cranberries to the topping for added flavor and texture.
- Make it a day ahead! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Serve It With
To elevate your pumpkin crisp experience, consider these ideas:
- Serve with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that comforting contrast.
- Drizzle with warm caramel sauce or maple syrup for an indulgent touch.
- Pair with fresh berries for a burst of freshness that cuts through the sweetness.
- Present slices lightly dusted with powdered sugar for a sophisticated touch at your Thanksgiving table.
How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
Leftovers, if you have any, can be stored at room temperature for up to two days. However, to maintain freshness, it’s best to refrigerate it! Cover it tightly and store in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in an airtight container for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or place it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. Keep in mind that the texture may become a bit softer after thawing, but a quick reheat will refresh its deliciousness.
Tips & Variations
Want to make your Pumpkin Crisp Recipe a bit different? Here are a few ways to tweak it:
- Use Different Spices: Instead of pumpkin pie spice, try adding a sprinkle of cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor.
- Flavor Swaps: Chocolate lovers can fold in miniature chocolate chips or swirls of Nutella for a sweeter spin.
- Make It Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use coconut cream in place of the sweetened condensed milk for a delightful vegan option.
- Add Fruits: Consider mixing in a cup of diced apples or pears with the pumpkin for a fruity twist.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just roast or steam a pumpkin, puree it until smooth, and use it in the same quantity. It may enhance the flavor even more.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can make this a day ahead. Just store it covered in the refrigerator, and reheat before serving.
Can I freeze pumpkin crisp?
Yes! After baking, let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze. It’s perfect for enjoying later; just reheat as directed!
What do I do if the topping is too dry?
If the crumble is too dry, add an extra tablespoon or two of melted butter until the desired crumbly texture is reached.
There’s a reason the Pumpkin Crisp Recipe is a cherished favorite: it embodies all the comforting flavors of fall, is simple to throw together, and invites everyone to gather around for seconds. I encourage you to experiment with flavors, share with loved ones, and create a new tradition around this delightful dessert. So go ahead, indulge in this savory-sweet delight, and immerse yourself in the season. Enjoy every warm, cozy bite!
PrintMore Breakfast Recipes
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📖 Recipe Card
Pumpkin Crisp
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pumpkin Crisp is a delightful fall dessert combining creamy pumpkin filling and a crunchy brown sugar crumble, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
- 2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 12 tablespoons (170g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a deep-dish pie plate or suitable baking pan.
- Whisk together pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, salt, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth; pour into the prepared pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon; combine with melted butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle topping evenly over the pumpkin mixture.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Ensure butter is melted but not too hot to avoid greasy topping.
Use freshly ground spices for stronger flavors.
Consider adding chopped nuts or cranberries for extra texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
