Pumpkin Pie Crisp: The Perfect Fall Dessert

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Pumpkin Pie Crisp wafting through your home. This delightful dessert combines the classic flavors of pumpkin pie with a crunchy, buttery topping that adds texture and richness. It’s the ideal treat for Thanksgiving, cozy family dinners, or just a simple autumn night. Plus, it’s easier to make than traditional pumpkin pie.

Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Pie Crisp:

  • Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dessert a breeze to whip up.
  • Warm & Comforting: The warm pumpkin filling and crunchy topping create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
  • Versatile: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful treat.
  • Make Ahead: Perfect for prepping ahead of time—just bake when you’re ready to enjoy!

Ingredients:

For the Pumpkin Filling:

  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 tsp salt

For the Crisp Topping:

  • 1 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pumpkin Filling:

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well blended.

2. Pour the Filling into a Baking Dish:

  • Prepare the Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  • Add Filling: Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

3. Make the Crisp Topping:

  • Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
  • Add Butter: Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If desired, stir in the chopped nuts for added crunch.

4. Assemble and Bake:

  • Add Topping: Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the pumpkin filling in the baking dish.
  • Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is set.

5. Cool and Serve:

  • Let Cool: Allow the pumpkin pie crisp to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the filling set up a bit more.
  • Serve Warm: Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!

Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Pie Crisp:

  • Use Fresh Pumpkin: If you prefer, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just roast and puree your pumpkin for an even fresher taste!
  • Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the filling and topping to your liking. You can also substitute with alternatives like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
  • Store Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Suggested Pairings:

  • Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm crisp.
  • Whipped Cream: A classic topping that never goes out of style.
  • Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for a sweet touch.

Final Thoughts:

Pumpkin Pie Crisp is a delicious and comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite. It’s a great addition to your autumn dessert repertoire and a surefire hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just craving something sweet, this recipe is bound to please.

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