If you’re searching for an absolute autumn showstopper that’s as easy as it is irresistible, this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe is about to become your new go-to dessert. With all the cozy flavors of classic pumpkin pie, but with an ultra-crunchy, buttery topping, it’s the kind of treat that makes everyone at the table swoon. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just want to enjoy a sweet pumpkin moment on a chilly night, this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe delivers comfort, nostalgia, and a whole lot of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magical about how a few simple ingredients, each with their own unique character, can come together to create a dessert that’s both nostalgic and exciting. Every item in this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe has a role to play, from adding creaminess to building that signature crisp topping.
- Pumpkin Puree: The heart of the dessert, it brings moisture and rich autumn flavor. For best results, use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Evaporated Milk: Adds creaminess and helps the filling set to a custard-like texture, reminiscent of a traditional pumpkin pie.
- Large Eggs: These help bind the filling and give it that perfect, slightly firm bite.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling just enough without overpowering the pumpkin and spice notes.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of warmth and aroma that brings all the flavors together beautifully.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: The spice blend that gives this recipe its unmistakable fall flavor—think cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Ground Cinnamon: A little extra cinnamon intensifies the warmth and coziness of the dessert.
- Salt: Just a touch to balance the sweetness and elevate all the other flavors.
- Yellow Cake Mix: The shortcut that delivers a golden, crunchy topping without any fuss. It’s also what makes this recipe so easy and fun!
- Unsalted Butter (melted): This soaks into the cake mix, helping it crisp up deliciously in the oven.
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (optional): For extra crunch and a nutty finish, you can’t go wrong with a handful of toasted nuts.
- Whipped Cream or Vanilla Ice Cream: The ideal finishing touch—creamy, cool, and perfect for swirling into each warm bite.
How to Make Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to make sure it’s perfectly hot and ready for baking. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a generous greasing with butter or nonstick spray. This not only prevents sticking but also ensures every slice releases beautifully.
Step 2: Whisk the Pumpkin Filling
In a big mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk everything together until it’s silky smooth and well combined. This luscious mixture will form the creamy base of your Pumpkin Crisp Recipe.
Step 3: Pour and Layer
Pour the pumpkin filling into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Now, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the pumpkin layer. Don’t stir—this is the secret to that signature crisp topping!
Step 4: Add Butter and Nuts
Drizzle the melted butter evenly all over the cake mix layer. If some spots look a little dry, give them a gentle nudge with a spoon so every inch is coated. Sprinkle on the chopped pecans or walnuts if you’re using them for that extra crunch and flavor boost.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set (it should jiggle just slightly, like a custard). Let it cool for at least 15 minutes—this helps the filling set up and makes serving a breeze.
How to Serve Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing says “special occasion” quite like a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into a warm slice of Pumpkin Crisp Recipe. For an extra pop, sprinkle a little more cinnamon or a few chopped nuts on top right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines brightest alongside a cup of hot coffee or chai, but it also pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like sliced pears or apples for a light, refreshing contrast. If you’re serving it at a big meal, a simple cheese board makes a lovely complement to the sweet, spiced flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant twist, try serving portions in individual ramekins or mason jars—perfect for dinner parties or holiday gatherings. You can also layer Pumpkin Crisp Recipe parfait-style with whipped cream and toasted nuts in tall glasses for a fun, visually stunning treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pumpkin Crisp Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Just cover your baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or store individual portions in airtight containers. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, let the crisp cool completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing. You can freeze the whole dish or individual slices. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture.
Reheating
To recapture that fresh-from-the-oven magic, reheat portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or warm the entire dish in a 300°F oven until heated through. The topping will crisp up a bit, and the filling will turn velvety once again.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works wonderfully in this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe. Just make sure it’s not too watery; if needed, blot excess moisture with paper towels for the best texture.
Is there a gluten-free option for the cake mix?
Yes! Swap in your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix for the topping. It bakes up just as crisp and golden, so everyone can enjoy this treat, regardless of dietary needs.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
No worries! You can mix 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon cloves to create a homemade pumpkin pie spice substitute for this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe.
Can I make it nut-free?
Of course. Simply leave out the pecans or walnuts, and the dessert will still be deliciously crisp and satisfying. You could sprinkle in some sunflower or pumpkin seeds if you want a little extra texture without the nuts.
Is this best served warm or chilled?
It’s a matter of preference! Warm Pumpkin Crisp Recipe is wonderfully comforting, especially with cold ice cream melting into it, but it’s also delightful served chilled, almost like a pumpkin pie bar. Try both and see which you love more!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that’s easy to make, big on flavor, and sure to impress, this Pumpkin Crisp Recipe is the answer. It’s one of those recipes that brings people together, fills the kitchen with cozy aromas, and turns any meal into something extra special. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new seasonal favorite in your home!
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Pumpkin Crisp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Crisp recipe is a deliciously easy fall dessert that combines the creamy, spiced pumpkin filling with a buttery cake mix topping, delivering the familiar flavors of pumpkin pie with the delightful texture of a crisp. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering, it’s served best warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Filling
- 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1 box (about 15 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Serving
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and help with even baking.
- Mix pumpkin filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Assemble the crisp: Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Then sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin filling layer.
- Add the topping: Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly across the cake mix topping. If necessary, gently spread with a spoon to cover completely. Optionally, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the top for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake the dessert: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the center is set without being jiggly.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and allow the crisp to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This dessert can be served warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream as desired.
Notes
- This dessert combines the flavors of pumpkin pie with the texture of a crisp for a unique fall treat.
- For added crunch, you can mix crushed graham crackers or oats into the cake mix topping before baking.
- Leftovers should be refrigerated and will keep well for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving to regain warmth and freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (about 1/12 of recipe)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
