The Ultimate Pumpkin Pie Crisp Recipe

Fall baking evokes warmth and comfort, and nothing captures that spirit quite like a classic pumpkin dessert. This Pumpkin Pie Crisp offers a delightful twist on tradition, blending creamy, spiced pumpkin filling with a buttery, crunchy streusel topping. Prepare to effortlessly create a spectacular, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for any occasion. This simple yet elegant dish promises to be a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pie Crisp

This Pumpkin Pie Crisp stands out as a beloved autumn treat, bringing joy to every table.

  • Irresistible Flavor: Experience all the beloved flavors of classic pumpkin pie, elevated with a delightful textural contrast.
  • Easy No-Crust Dessert: Skip the fuss of a complicated pie crust. This recipe simplifies baking without sacrificing flavor.
  • Perfect Texture Contrast: Enjoy the harmonious blend of a silky-smooth pumpkin filling and a crisp, buttery cinnamon streusel.
  • Great for Holidays: It’s an ideal Thanksgiving dessert or a comforting treat for any fall gathering.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare components in advance, making your holiday cooking stress-free and enjoyable.

Ingredients

Crafting a truly memorable Pumpkin Pie Crisp starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you need to create this amazing dessert.

  • For the Pumpkin Layer:
    • 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 Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
    • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

Notes & Substitutions

  • Pumpkin Puree: As MarthaStewart.com explains, 100% pure pumpkin puree is distinct from pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar. Always choose 100% pure pumpkin puree, not canned pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar.
  • Heavy Cream: Heavy cream provides the richest, most decadent texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you do not have store-bought, easily create your own blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of cloves.
  • Flour: For accurate measurement, spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge.
  • Butter: Use unsalted melted butter for the streusel to control the overall saltiness of your dish.

Equipment

Gathering your tools before you begin cooking ensures a smooth and enjoyable baking process. You’ll need a few basic kitchen items for this pumpkin crisp.

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 12-inch cast iron skillet or 9×9 baking dish
  • Aluminum foil (optional)
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How To Make Pumpkin Pie Crisp

Follow these easy steps to create your perfect Pumpkin Pie Crisp. You’ll love how simple it is to achieve such impressive results.

  1. Preheat Oven & Prep Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Thoroughly butter a 12-inch cast iron skillet or a medium casserole dish. Set it aside for later use.
  2. Mix Pumpkin Layer: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, 1 cup of granulated sugar, large eggs, pumpkin pie spice, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined.
  3. Add Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the pumpkin mixture. Continue whisking until the mixture becomes completely smooth and uniform. This creates the creamy base for your delicious Pumpkin Pie Crisp.
  4. Prepare Streusel: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Ensure these dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
  5. Add Butter to Streusel: Pour the melted unsalted butter into the dry streusel ingredients. Stir the mixture with a fork until moist crumbs form. You can also use a hand mixer on low speed for a more even crumb texture.
  6. Assemble Crisp: Pour the smooth pumpkin mixture into your prepared skillet or baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon streusel topping generously over the pumpkin layer, creating an even, crumbly blanket.
  7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the pumpkin filling is set and the streusel topping turns a beautiful golden brown.
  8. Prevent Over-Browning: Keep an eye on the streusel topping. If it starts to brown too quickly before the filling is fully set, loosely cover the top of the dish with aluminum foil. This prevents excessive browning while allowing the filling to finish cooking.
  9. Cool & Serve: Once baked, remove the pumpkin crisp from the oven. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This crucial cooling time allows the pie filling to firm up, ensuring perfect slices. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Achieving a flawless pumpkin crisp is easy with these helpful hints. These tips address common baking challenges, helping you create a perfect dessert every time.

  • Achieving Crumbly Streusel: For the best texture, use a fork or your fingertips to mix the butter into the dry ingredients. This method prevents overworking the dough, creating delightful, distinct crumbs.
  • Preventing Undercooked Filling: Ensure the center of the pumpkin filling is set. A slight jiggle is acceptable, but it should not appear liquid or uncooked before removing it from the oven.
  • Perfect Golden Top: Keep a close watch on your streusel topping during the last 15 minutes of baking. If it browns too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil to protect it.
  • Serving Temperature: This crisp is undeniably best served warm, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the streusel to retain its delightful crunch.
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Pumpkin Pie Crisp Serving – Common Mistakes

  • Using pumpkin pie mix instead of pure pumpkin puree drastically alters the flavor and consistency.
  • Over-mixing the streusel results in a dense, pasty topping rather than a light, crumbly one.
  • Not allowing adequate cooling time prevents the filling from setting properly, leading to a runny dessert.

Serving, Storage, & Variations

Your warm Pumpkin Pie Crisp is a canvas for delicious toppings and can be enjoyed in many ways. Explore these options to enhance your dessert experience.

  • Pumpkin Pie Crisp Serving Suggestions: Elevate each serving with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream, or a luxurious drizzle of rich caramel sauce. A sprinkle of cinnamon adds an extra touch of warmth.
  • Storage: Cover any leftover pumpkin crisp tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days, maintaining its freshness and flavor.
  • Reheating: For a warm treat, microwave individual servings briefly until heated through. Alternatively, enjoy this crisp straight from the refrigerator; it’s delicious cold too!
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the pumpkin layer and streusel separately up to 48 hours in advance. Store both components in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving for ultimate freshness.

  • Pumpkin Pie Crisp Variations:

  • Nutty Crisp: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts to your streusel topping for an extra layer of texture and rich flavor.
  • Oatmeal Crisp: Incorporate 1/2 cup of old-fashioned or quick oats into the streusel mixture. This adds a wholesome chewiness and rustic appeal to your pumpkin pie crisp.
  • Caramel Drizzle: For an extra decadent treat, finish your warm crisp with a generous swirl of homemade salted caramel sauce.

Nutrition

Understanding the nutritional breakdown helps you enjoy this delightful dessert responsibly. This information is based on one serving of our delicious Pumpkin Pie Crisp.

Nutrition FactAmount
Serving Size1
Calories378 kcal
Carbohydrates28 g
Protein7 g
Fat27 g
Saturated Fat16 g
Polyunsaturated Fat9 g
Cholesterol138 mg
Sodium301 mg
Fiber2 g
Sugar2 g

Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Pumpkin Pie Crisp – FAQ

You have questions, and we have answers! Here are some common inquiries about making this delightful Pumpkin Pie Crisp.

  • Can I use a different size baking dish? Yes, you can. Adjust your baking time accordingly; a shallower dish might bake faster, while a deeper one could take longer.
  • Can I substitute evaporated milk for heavy cream? Yes, evaporated milk is a suitable substitute for heavy cream in the pumpkin layer. It will offer a slightly different, though still rich, flavor profile.
  • My streusel didn’t get crumbly, what went wrong? This usually happens if the butter is too warm, or if you over-mixed it into a paste. Ensure your butter is just melted and mix only until crumbs form.
  • Can this pumpkin crisp be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the baked and cooled crisp for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
  • Is homemade pumpkin puree suitable for this recipe? Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works wonderfully and can add an even fresher flavor to your crisp. Just ensure it is thick and not watery.
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Conclusion

This Pumpkin Pie Crisp is more than just a dessert; it’s an invitation to savor the cozy flavors of autumn with ease and joy. With its creamy pumpkin filling and irresistible streusel topping, it delivers all the warmth of a classic pie without the complicated crust. Make this simple pumpkin crisp recipe your new go-to holiday tradition or a comforting weekend treat. Try it today, share it with your loved ones, and let us know what you think!

Warm Pumpkin Pie Crisp with melting vanilla ice cream in a rustic bowl, perfect for fall.

The Ultimate Pumpkin Pie Crisp Recipe

A delicious and easy-to-make pumpkin pie crisp featuring a smooth pumpkin filling topped with a buttery cinnamon streusel. Perfect for a fall dessert, it’s baked until golden brown and served warm.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • 12-inch cast iron skillet or medium casserole dish
  • Large bowl
  • Medium bowl
  • Whisk
  • fork
  • hand mixer (optional)
  • foil (optional)

Ingredients
  

Pumpkin 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

Cinnamon Streusel Topping

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F and butter a 12-inch cast iron skillet or medium casserole dish.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract, then whisk in heavy cream until smooth; pour into the prepared skillet.
  • In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt, then add melted butter and stir with a fork until crumbly; spread this cinnamon streusel topping evenly over the pumpkin mixture.
  • Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the topping is golden brown, covering with foil if the topping browns too quickly.
  • Let the crisp cool for 10 minutes to allow the filling to firm up before serving warm, optionally topped with ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

If the crumb topping happens to brown too quickly, you can lightly cover the top with foil to prevent it from browning any more. Serve warm topped with ice cream or whipped cream. Cinnamon ice cream is a personal favorite combination.
Keyword Pumpkin Pie Crisp, Pumpkin Pie Crisp Recipe