Pumpkin Crisp Recipe

Fall’s Coziest Pumpkin Crisp Recipe: Golden Sweetness in Every Bite

Crafting a delightful pumpkin crisp brings comfort and warmth to autumn gatherings.

Seasonal spices dance through layers of sweet, velvety goodness.

Cool evenings call for something magical from the kitchen.

Nostalgia whispers with each golden, crumbly bite of this classic dessert.

Unexpected textures make this treat irresistibly memorable.

crisp edges and tender center promise a delectable experience.

Dive right in and savor every delicious moment.

Crispy Pumpkin Crisp with a Sweet Twist

  • Whip Up Seasonal Comfort: A delightful dessert that captures the warm, cozy essence of autumn with its rich pumpkin flavor and crispy topping.
  • Simplify Baking Brilliance: Easy-to-follow recipe that requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations, this pumpkin crisp will impress family and friends with its delectable taste and inviting aroma.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat that suits any dessert lover's preference.

Ingredients Needed for Pumpkin Crisp

Pumpkin Filling Base:
  • Pumpkin Puree: A smooth and creamy foundation that provides the classic autumn flavor and rich texture of the dessert.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweet ingredients that enhance the natural sweetness of the pumpkin and create a caramel-like depth.
  • Eggs: Binding agents that help create a smooth and stable filling structure.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creates a silky, luxurious consistency to the pumpkin mixture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, sweet background flavor that complements the pumpkin.
Spice Blend:
  • Cinnamon, Ginger, Cloves, Nutmeg: Classic fall spices that deliver warm, aromatic notes and traditional pumpkin pie flavor.
  • Salt: Balances and heightens the overall sweetness of the dessert.
Crisp Topping:
  • Flour, Butter, Brown Sugar, Pecans or Oats: Creates a crunchy, golden-brown layer that adds textural contrast to the creamy pumpkin base.

How to Prepare Pumpkin Crisp Step-by-Step

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350F (175C), getting ready for a warm and delightful dessert adventure.

Step 2: Blend Pumpkin Magic

In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Creamy pumpkin puree
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar

Blend until the mixture looks smooth and inviting.

Step 3: Embrace the Eggs

Gently add eggs one by one, stirring thoroughly after each addition to create a silky, rich texture.

Step 4: Introduce Creamy Goodness

Pour in heavy cream and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture becomes completely smooth and dreamy.

Step 5: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in a delightful blend of warming spices:
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Ground ginger
  • Ground cloves
  • Nutmeg
  • Salt

Mix well to distribute the aromatic flavors evenly.

Step 6: Fill the Baking Dish

Transfer the luscious pumpkin mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Create the Crispy Topping

Prepare a crunchy topping and scatter it generously across the pumpkin base.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes.

Look for a golden-brown topping and a set filling.

Step 9: Serve and Indulge

Let the pumpkin crisp cool slightly.

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Crisp Texture

  • Use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned for a richer, more authentic taste that elevates the entire dessert.
  • Ensure crisp topping stays crunchy by spreading it loosely and avoiding pressing down, which helps maintain its delightful texture.
  • Freshly ground spices will provide a more intense and vibrant flavor profile compared to pre-ground spices that lose potency over time.
  • Let the pumpkin crisp rest for 15-20 minutes after baking to allow the filling to set and develop deeper flavors before serving.
  • Prepare the entire dessert a day in advance and store covered in the refrigerator, which allows spices to meld and intensify overnight.

Variations to Customize Pumpkin Crisp

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Crisp: Replace regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free oat flour in the topping for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Crisp: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and swap butter for coconut oil in the topping.
  • Low-Sugar Pumpkin Crisp: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia instead of granulated and brown sugar, and reduce the overall sweetness while maintaining flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Pumpkin Crisp: Replace heavy cream with almond milk or oat milk, and use dairy-free butter alternatives in the crisp topping for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Crisp

  • Creamy Companion Delight: Top this warm pumpkin crisp with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream for a luxurious, cloud-like experience that melts beautifully over the dessert.
  • Scoop of Happiness: Serve alongside a cold scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the warm crisp and chilly ice cream to create a magical temperature contrast that tantalizes taste buds.
  • Seasonal Garnish Elegance: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or candied walnuts on top for an extra crunch and nutty depth that complements the smooth pumpkin filling and crispy topping.
  • Breakfast Transformation: Enjoy leftover slices as a decadent breakfast treat paired with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for a cozy morning indulgence.

How to Store Pumpkin Crisp for Best Results

  • Store leftover pumpkin crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to prevent moisture loss and absorbing other food odors.
  • Wrap individual portions or the entire dish securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Place a date label on the container for easy tracking.
  • Warm individual servings for 30-45 seconds on medium power. Check temperature and add extra seconds if needed. Stir or rotate midway to ensure even heating.

FAQs

  • Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and saves time compared to making fresh puree from scratch.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the crisp topping typically contains flour. You’ll need to substitute with gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

  • Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pumpkin crisp 1-2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

  • How do I know when the pumpkin crisp is fully baked?

The topping should be golden brown and crispy, and the pumpkin filling should be set with minimal jiggle when you gently shake the baking dish.

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Pumpkin Crisp Recipe

Pumpkin Crisp Recipe


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4.6 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent pumpkin crisp delights with layers of spiced pumpkin and crunchy streusel topping. Warm autumn flavors meld perfectly for a comforting dessert you’ll savor to the last delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 15 ounces (425 grams) pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Crisp Topping:

  • 1 cup (125 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Heat oven to 350F (175C), preparing a baking dish for the pumpkin dessert.
  2. Combine pumpkin puree with granulated and brown sugars in a large mixing bowl, creating a smooth base.
  3. Incorporate eggs individually, thoroughly blending after each addition to ensure a uniform mixture.
  4. Gently fold in heavy cream and vanilla extract, stirring until the consistency becomes silky and well-integrated.
  5. Sprinkle ground cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt into the mixture, whisking to distribute spices evenly.
  6. Transfer the spiced pumpkin blend into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
  7. Generously distribute the crisp topping across the surface, ensuring complete and uniform coverage.
  8. Slide the dish into the preheated oven, baking for 45-50 minutes until the topping transforms to a rich golden brown and the filling sets firmly.
  9. Allow the dessert to rest and cool slightly, then serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish.

Notes

  • Choose canned pumpkin puree for consistent texture and save time from roasting fresh pumpkin.
  • Use room temperature eggs to ensure smoother, more even mixing without lumps in the batter.
  • Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing ground cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg to suit personal taste preferences.
  • Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that maintains rich, creamy consistency.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 120 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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