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There is something undeniably comforting and festive about this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe, a dessert that perfectly marries the rich, velvety texture of pumpkin with a crunchy, cinnamon-spiked streusel topping. Whether you’re winding down after a lovely fall dinner or craving a warm treat any time of year, this crisp brings a delightful burst of autumnal flavors with every bite. It’s simple enough for weekday baking yet impressive enough for holiday gatherings, making it a cherished go-to recipe to keep in your culinary collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pumpkin Crisp Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that you might already have on hand. Each component plays a crucial role: from the luscious pumpkin puree giving it that creamy body, to the buttery streusel topping that adds a perfect crisp texture and spice balance.
- Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that delivers moistness and that unmistakable flavor of fall.
- Granulated sugar: Used twice—once in the pumpkin base and again in the streusel—to provide sweetness without overpowering.
- Eggs: They bind the pumpkin filling, creating a custard-like consistency when baked.
- Pumpkin pie spice: A blend that brings warm, cozy notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all other flavors.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle depth and smoothness to the pumpkin filling.
- Heavy cream: Enriches the custard texture for a luscious finish.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for the streusel that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Cinnamon: A key spice in the topping that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and folded into the streusel, it creates that irresistible golden crunch.
How to Make Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-inch cast iron skillet or a medium casserole dish. Using a cast iron skillet gives the crisp a lovely crust, but any baking dish will do just fine.
Step 2: Whisk the Pumpkin Filling
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract with a whisk. Once smooth, gradually incorporate the heavy cream, making the mixture silky and rich. Pour this luscious filling evenly into your prepared dish.
Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Streusel
In a separate bowl, mix together flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir with a fork until crumbly. This streusel topping is where the magic happens—a wonderful balance of sweet and spiced crunch that contrasts the soft pumpkin underneath.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spread the cinnamon streusel evenly over the pumpkin filling to ensure every bite has that satisfying texture. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the filling is set and the topping has turned a gorgeous golden brown. If the topping starts browning too quickly, cover with foil to prevent burning.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, allow your pumpkin crisp to cool for about 10 minutes. This brief rest helps it set up perfectly and makes it easier to serve. It’s divine on its own or beautifully complemented by vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
How to Serve Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
Garnishes
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a swirl of freshly whipped cream can elevate your Pumpkin Crisp Recipe to an indulgent experience. For a little extra flair, sprinkle some toasted pecans or a pinch of cinnamon on top. These simple touches add texture and a cozy aroma.
Side Dishes
This crisp doubles as a fantastic dessert or a comforting afternoon treat. Pair it with a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee to complement the spices, or serve alongside a crisp apple salad for a refreshing contrast. It’s versatile enough to accompany many meals, especially during chilly months.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, bake the Pumpkin Crisp Recipe in individual ramekins, allowing each guest their own personal serving. You can also top with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts right before serving for added decadence and texture that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Pumpkin Crisp Recipe will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, so you might find it tastes even better the next day. Just make sure to cover it tightly to keep the topping crisp as long as possible.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dessert longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled crisp tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place your Pumpkin Crisp in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes. This helps revive that crisp topping and brings warmth back to the creamy pumpkin filling. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the topping can become soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Absolutely! You’ll just need to roast and puree your pumpkin first. But keep in mind that canned pumpkin puree offers a consistently smooth texture and concentrated flavor that works perfectly for this recipe.
Is there a gluten-free version of this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour in the topping with a gluten-free blend of your choice. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to help achieve that crumbly texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
With a few swaps, yes. Replace the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer, use a plant-based butter alternative, and swap heavy cream for coconut cream. The flavor will be just as comforting and delicious.
How spicy is this Pumpkin Crisp?
The pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon create a warm, gentle spice profile that enhances the sweetness without overwhelming. If you love bold spices, feel free to add a pinch more, or tone it down by reducing the pumpkin pie spice slightly.
Can I prepare the crisp topping ahead of time?
Definitely! The streusel can be mixed and stored in the fridge for a day or two before baking. Keep it wrapped tightly so it doesn’t dry out, then sprinkle it fresh over the pumpkin filling when you’re ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a home-baked Pumpkin Crisp Recipe with people you care about. Its heartwarming flavors and comforting textures make it a timeless dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give this tried-and-true recipe a whirl—you might just find a new favorite that graces your table every season.
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Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pumpkin Crisp is a comforting and delicious autumn dessert featuring a smooth, spiced pumpkin filling topped with a buttery cinnamon streusel. Baked to perfection in a cast iron skillet or casserole dish, this crisp offers a delightful contrast between the creamy pumpkin base and the crunchy topping, making it perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Filling
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- â…” cup heavy cream
Cinnamon Streusel Topping
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 12 tablespoons (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-inch cast iron skillet or medium casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Make Pumpkin Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, 1 cup granulated sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, ½ teaspoon salt, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Pour this filling into the prepared dish.
- Prepare Streusel Topping: In another bowl, mix together flour, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon salt. Add the melted butter and stir with a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly and evenly combined.
- Assemble Crisp: Evenly spread the cinnamon streusel topping over the pumpkin filling in the dish, making sure it covers the surface fully.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pumpkin filling is set and the topping is golden brown. If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pumpkin crisp to cool for 10 minutes before serving. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Notes
- Using a cast iron skillet helps achieve an evenly baked crust and rustic presentation.
- Cover with foil if the streusel browns too fast to avoid burning.
- For added texture, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping.
- This crisp can be made a day ahead and gently reheated before serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
