Pumpkin Pie Crisp: A Warm & Cozy Twist on a Classic
Imagine a dessert that brings the warm, spiced goodness of pumpkin pie with the satisfying crunch of a crisp topping. Pumpkin Pie Crisp is like the cozy cousin of classic pumpkin pie—rustic, simple, and absolutely indulgent. This dish is made to be loved year-round, not just on Thanksgiving.
Whether you’re a pumpkin spice fan or just looking to shake up dessert night, this recipe delivers. It combines creamy pumpkin filling with a golden, crumbly streusel that’s both quick to make and hard to resist. With each bite, you get all the flavors of a traditional pumpkin pie but with a delightful twist.
Craving comfort food that’s fuss-free but still feels like a treat? Pumpkin Pie Crisp has you covered! It’s easy enough for a casual night at home but special enough to bring to a holiday gathering.
Grab a few ingredients and a cozy blanket—this Pumpkin Pie Crisp is ready to be the next star of your dessert rotation! With its rich flavors and tempting textures, you’ll be making it again and again.
Required Kitchen Tools
To make this recipe smoothly, gather these tools:
- Mixing Bowls – For combining the filling and topping ingredients.
- Whisk – Ideal for achieving a smooth filling.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – Precise measurements are key in baking.
- Baking Dish (8×8 inch or 9×9 inch) – This size helps the crisp bake evenly.
- Spatula – Useful for spreading the filling evenly in the dish.
- Cooling Rack – Allows the dessert to cool evenly after baking.
Ingredients Breakdown
In this recipe, each ingredient has a purpose. Here’s what you’ll need and why each item matters:
For the Pumpkin Filling
- Pumpkin Puree (15 oz can) – The base of our filling; make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie mix.
- Large Eggs (3) – Helps thicken the filling and gives it structure.
- Brown Sugar (1/2 cup, packed) – Adds depth of flavor and complements the spices.
- Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup) – Balances sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds a warm, comforting note.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Essential for pumpkin spice flavor.
- Ground Ginger (1/2 tsp) – Adds a slight hint of heat.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/2 tsp) – Adds a subtle warmth.
- Ground Cloves (1/4 tsp) – A potent spice that pairs well with pumpkin.
- Ground Allspice (1/4 tsp) – Completes the spice mix.
- Kosher Salt (1/4 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor.
- Heavy Cream (2/3 cup) – Creates a creamy, smooth texture.
For the Streusel Topping
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Forms the base of the crumble.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the topping.
- Brown Sugar (1/2 cup, packed) – Adds depth to the crumble.
- Ground Cinnamon (2 tsp) – Adds a warm spice flavor to the topping.
- Melted Butter (12 tbsp) – Helps create a crispy, buttery crumble.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Grease an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and salt. Stir until the spices are evenly distributed.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking to combine, creating a creamy filling.
- Pour the filling into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Prepare the Streusel Topping
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Drizzle melted butter over the dry ingredients. Use a fork to mix until the mixture forms crumbles. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want a nice, crumbly texture.
- Evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the pumpkin filling.
Step 4: Bake the Crisp
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown, and the filling is set.
- Remove from the oven and place on a cooling rack. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to settle.
Serving Suggestions
Pumpkin Pie Crisp is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to take it up a notch:
- Add a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream – The cold creaminess pairs perfectly with the warm spices.
- Drizzle of Caramel Sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and sophistication.
- Top with Whipped Cream – A light and fluffy addition that balances the richness.
Variations and Substitutions
Explore these fun twists to suit your tastes or dietary needs:
- Nut-Free – Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free oats.
- Lower Sugar Option – Swap half the sugar with a natural sweetener, like maple syrup or honey.
- Add Nuts – Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping for added crunch.
- Spice Variation – Add a pinch of cardamom or swap ginger with allspice for a unique twist.
Why Pumpkin Pie Crisp?
Unlike traditional pumpkin pie, this dessert is quicker and simpler to make. No need for rolling pie dough or worrying about soggy crusts. Pumpkin Pie Crisp gives you the classic pumpkin pie filling with the addition of a satisfyingly crunchy topping – it’s rustic and ready for any fall gathering.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Pumpkin Pie Crisp can be kept for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or place the whole dish back in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to crisp up the topping again.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 30g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Vitamin A | 100% DV |
| Vitamin C | 4% DV |
Pumpkin Pie Crisp FAQ
Q: Can I make Pumpkin Pie Crisp ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling and topping separately, refrigerate, and then bake when ready to serve.
Q: What if I only have pumpkin pie spice on hand?
A: You can substitute the individual spices with 1-2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, adjusting to your taste.
Q: Is this dessert gluten-free?
A: Not as written, but you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend to make it gluten-free.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Pie Crisp is a cozy, inviting dessert that combines everything you love about pumpkin pie with a simple-to-make crumble topping. It’s the perfect solution for those who want the flavor of pumpkin pie without the fuss of a crust, making it ideal for holiday gatherings or any chilly autumn evening.
Try this recipe, and let us know how it turns out! Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned baker, Pumpkin Pie Crisp is a dessert that anyone can enjoy. Happy baking!
