The Pumpkin Crisp is your new go-to dessert for fall gatherings and cozy nights at home. With a creamy pumpkin filling topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel, this delightful dish is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or simply craving the flavors of the season, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your pumpkin cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious dessert ready for the oven.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with ice cream, whipped cream, or even alone for a simple treat.
- Easy Clean-Up: Using a cast iron skillet or casserole dish means less mess to deal with after enjoying your dessert.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves 6 to 8 people, making it great for gatherings or family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Pumpkin Crisp, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process seamless. Gathering these items beforehand will help streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 12-inch cast iron skillet or medium casserole dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Fork or hand mixer
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast Iron Skillet: Retains heat well and gives an even bake, enhancing flavor.
- Mixing Bowls: Having both large and medium bowls allows for efficient mixing of ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: Ensures smooth incorporation of ingredients for the filling, avoiding lumps.
- Fork or Hand Mixer: Helps achieve the perfect crumbly texture for the topping.
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. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract.
2. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until smooth.
3. Pour this mixture into your prepared skillet.
Step 3: Make the Topping
In a medium bowl:
1. Combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add in the melted butter and stir using a fork until crumbly.
3. Evenly spread this cinnamon streusel topping over the pumpkin filling.
Step 4: Bake
Place your skillet in the preheated oven. Bake until the filling is set and the top is golden brown, which should take about 40 to 45 minutes. If necessary, cover with foil if browning too quickly.
Step 5: Serve
Allow cooling for about 10 minutes so that the filling firms up nicely. Serve warm topped with ice cream or whipped cream. My personal favorite combination is serving this pumpkin crisp with cinnamon ice cream if available!
How to Serve Pumpkin Crisp
Serving Pumpkin Crisp is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and textures. Here are some delightful suggestions to enjoy this fall dessert.
A La Mode
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The creamy ice cream melts beautifully into the warm filling, creating a comforting treat.
Whipped Cream Delight
- Top with freshly whipped cream for added richness. A dollop on each serving brings an airy touch that complements the dense pumpkin layer.
Caramel Drizzle
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for an indulgent finish. The sweet, sticky caramel pairs perfectly with the spices in the pumpkin crisp.
Nuts and Seeds
- Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for extra crunch. This adds a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the soft filling.
Spiced Yogurt
- Serve alongside spiced Greek yogurt. The tanginess of yogurt balances the sweetness, making for a refreshing contrast.
Coffee Pairing
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or pumpkin spice latte. The warm beverages enhance the fall theme and make for cozy pairings.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Crisp
To achieve the perfect Pumpkin Crisp, consider these helpful tips that elevate your baking game.
Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh pumpkin puree for a richer flavor. This enhances the overall taste of your dish.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when making the filling and topping. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your crisp as it bakes. Oven temperatures can vary; check for doneness at 40 minutes.
Let it Cool: Allow the crisp to cool slightly before serving. This helps set the filling, making it easier to slice and serve.
Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like nuts or chocolate chips for variety. Customizing keeps every batch exciting!
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Crisp
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Crisp can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness and adds a festive touch to your dessert table.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a savory balance, making them a perfect complement to sweet dishes.
Fall Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, apples, and nuts enhances flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash offers a similar flavor profile, creating harmony between dishes.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs delightfully with pumpkin crisp, providing various textures and flavors to enjoy.
Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal with a warm bowl of pumpkin soup for an all-pumpkin dining experience that’s cozy and inviting.
Apple Cider: Serve alongside hot apple cider for a classic fall drink that pairs well with dessert flavors.
Bread Rolls: Soft bread rolls are great for soaking up any leftover filling while providing a comforting element to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pumpkin Crisp can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the preheating step: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to ensure your dessert bakes evenly.
- Using expired ingredients: Old spices or baking powder can diminish flavor and texture. Check expiration dates before you start.
- Overmixing the filling: Overmixing can create air bubbles, making the texture less creamy. Mix just until combined for the best results.
- Not letting it cool: Serving immediately can lead to a runny filling. Let your Pumpkin Crisp cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Using cold butter in the topping: Cold butter won’t mix well with dry ingredients. Melt it completely for a crumbly streusel topping.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Pumpkin Crisp
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Crisp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 30-60 seconds; check frequently.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Pumpkin Crisp:
What is Pumpkin Crisp?
Pumpkin Crisp is an easy fall dessert made with creamy pumpkin filling topped with a golden cinnamon streusel. It’s a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie.
Can I make Pumpkin Crisp ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge and reheat before serving!
What toppings go well with Pumpkin Crisp?
Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even cinnamon ice cream make excellent toppings for this delicious treat.
Is Pumpkin Crisp gluten-free?
No, this recipe contains all-purpose flour. However, you can substitute with gluten-free flour blends if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Crisp recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or swapping spices according to your taste. Give this delightful dessert a try—it’s bound to become a favorite during the fall season!
Pumpkin Crisp
Indulge in the warmth of fall with this delightful Pumpkin Crisp, a cozy dessert perfect for gatherings and quiet evenings alike. This easy-to-make recipe features a creamy pumpkin filling layered beneath a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping, creating a comforting treat that embodies the essence of autumn. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on its own, Pumpkin Crisp is bound to impress your guests and satisfy your seasonal cravings. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this crowd-pleaser ready for the oven in no time!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
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 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and butter a cast iron skillet or 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 the prepared dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt; stir in melted butter until crumbly. Spread over the pumpkin filling.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until set and golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the crisp (about 130g)
- Calories: 299
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 167mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 57mg
Keywords: Use high-quality pumpkin puree for best results. Experiment with toppings like nuts or chocolate chips for variety.
