If you adore the cozy flavors of fall, you are going to absolutely fall in love with this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe. It’s a warm, inviting dessert that perfectly balances the smooth, spiced pumpkin filling with a perfectly crunchy, buttery oat topping. This dish brings together the comforting spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a way that makes every bite feel like a hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just treating yourself, this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients ready for this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe is a breeze, and each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From creamy pumpkin purée to the crunchy pecan-studded topping, every item is essential.
- Pumpkin purée: The star of the show, providing smoothness, color, and natural sweetness.
- Evaporated milk: Adds creaminess and enriches the filling’s texture without overpowering.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the spices and pumpkin with clean sweetness.
- Brown sugar: Offers a deep molasses flavor that enhances the oat topping and filling.
- Large eggs: Act as a binder to give the filling that perfect custard-like consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Brings out the warm aromatics and rounds out the spices.
- Ground cinnamon: The quintessential spice that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty note that warms the palate.
- Ground ginger: A hint of zing that keeps the flavors lively.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, preventing the dessert from tasting flat.
- All-purpose flour: The base for the crisp topping, creating structure.
- Rolled oats: Deliver the signature chew and crunch in the topping.
- Unsalted butter: Makes the topping rich, golden, and crispy.
- Chopped pecans (optional): Add a delightful nutty crunch that’s hard to resist.
How to Make Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure your pumpkin crisp slides out easily after baking. This simple first step sets the stage for an evenly cooked, beautiful dessert.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Pumpkin Filling
In a large bowl, whisk the pumpkin purée with evaporated milk, both sugars, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. The goal here is a smooth, well-incorporated mixture that bursts with seasonal spices and creamy richness. Pour this luscious filling evenly into your prepared baking dish for an even bake.
Step 3: Make the Crisp Topping
In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon before drizzling in the melted butter. Stir gently until the mixture becomes crumbly but cohesive. This topping is what gives the Pumpkin Crisp Recipe its signature crunch. If you love a bit of nuts, fold in chopped pecans now to add an aromatic and hearty texture.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle your crisp topping evenly over the pumpkin filling, covering every inch for that perfect golden crust. Bake the whole dish for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping turns a beautiful golden brown and the filling has set firmly. Your kitchen will fill with the irresistible scents of pumpkin and warm spices – a true sign that this dish is ready!
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the pumpkin crisp to cool slightly to let the flavors meld and to avoid burning your mouth with hot filling. This resting time also helps the crisp topping maintain its crunch, making the eating experience even more delightful.
How to Serve Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
Garnishes
Top your Pumpkin Crisp Recipe with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream to elevate every bite. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or a dusting of cinnamon adds a lovely finishing touch and extra texture, making the dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced cider or a robust coffee, balancing the sweetness and adding warmth to your meal. If serving after dinner, a light, refreshing green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can offset the richness and refresh the palate beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try individual servings in ramekins topped with pecans and mini marshmallows broiled until golden. Or serve it layered in clear glasses for a rustic parfait look, alternating pumpkin crisp with whipped cream and crushed gingersnaps for added texture and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Pumpkin Crisp Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To retain its freshness, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil before sealing. This makes for a delicious next-day treat that tastes just as good when reheated gently.
Freezing
You can freeze the Pumpkin Crisp Recipe before baking by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it directly from frozen, adding extra baking time until the topping is golden and the filling is cooked through.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or warm the whole dish in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes. To revive some crispness on the topping, a quick broil for a minute or two at the end works wonders.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?
Absolutely! Just roast and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth. Keep in mind fresh pumpkin can be more watery, so you might want to slightly reduce the evaporated milk or strain some liquid for the best texture in your Pumpkin Crisp Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free oats. This swap keeps the recipe accessible without compromising on amazing flavor or texture.
Can I make this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, swap the evaporated milk for coconut milk or another plant-based milk, use flax eggs or a similar egg replacer, and replace butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil. This way, everyone can enjoy this comforting dessert.
What if I want a crunchier topping?
For an extra crunchy topping, consider adding more oats or chopped nuts, or tossing some sugar crystals on top before baking. Baking a bit longer can also help deepen the crunch, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, doubling the ingredients works great! Just use a larger baking dish or split it between two dishes. Keep the same baking temperature but increase the baking time to ensure the filling sets perfectly and the topping browns evenly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe – it brings warmth, comfort, and a delightful crunch all in one dish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight treat or a festive centerpiece, this recipe is easy to love and even easier to make. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a staple you’ll want to share with everyone you know.
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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 recipe is a delightful fall dessert featuring a spicy pumpkin filling topped with a buttery oat crisp. Perfectly balanced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger spices, it offers a comforting blend of creamy and crunchy textures baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
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 and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similarly sized casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Make pumpkin filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Pour this filling evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare crisp topping: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir in the melted unsalted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. If desired, fold in the chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Assemble and bake: Sprinkle the crumbly crisp topping evenly over the pumpkin filling in the baking dish. Place in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the pumpkin filling is set and firm to the touch.
- Cool and serve: Allow the pumpkin crisp to cool slightly before serving to let the filling set further. For an extra indulgent touch, serve topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- You can substitute rolled oats with quick oats if preferred, but the texture will be slightly different.
- Chopped pecans are optional but add a delicious crunch to the crisp topping.
- Ensure the oven temperature is accurate for best results in browning and setting.
- For a richer flavor, consider using melted butter with sea salt.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated before serving.
