The Perfect Fall Dessert: Pumpkin Pie Crisp

Pumpkin pie crisp is a beloved fall favorite, but if you’re looking for a twist on the classic, this Pumpkin Pie Crisp is the perfect choice.

Combining the creamy, spiced goodness of pumpkin pie filling with a crunchy, buttery crisp topping, this dessert is both comforting and crowd-pleasing.

Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or just craving something sweet and seasonal, this recipe will hit the spot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pumpkin Filling:

Pumpkin Puree: 1 can (15 ounces)
Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup
Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup, packed
Eggs: 2 large
Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
Milk: 1/2 cup
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Ground Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon
Ground Ginger: 1/2 teaspoon
Ground Cloves: 1/4 teaspoon
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon

For the Crisp Topping:

All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup
Old-Fashioned Oats: 1/2 cup
Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, packed
Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup
Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), cold and cubed
Pecans or Walnuts: 1/2 cup, chopped (optional)

Optional Toppings:

Whipped Cream: For serving
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop on the side
Caramel Sauce: Drizzled on top

How to Make Chef Sadie’s Pumpkin Pie Crisp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, heavy cream, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Stir until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the pumpkin mixture.

Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 3: Make the Crisp Topping

In a separate mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to combine.

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the mixture until it forms coarse crumbs. The mixture should be crumbly, with some larger pieces of butter remaining.

If you’re using nuts, stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts at this stage.

Step 4: Assemble the Crisp

Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the pumpkin filling. Make sure the entire surface is covered with the topping for a perfect balance of creamy filling and crunchy topping in every bite.

Step 5: Bake the Pumpkin Pie Crisp

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the pumpkin filling is set. You can test the filling by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center—it should come out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the Pumpkin Pie Crisp to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set fully and makes it easier to scoop out servings.

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Pie Crisp

1. Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is essential for creating a crisp and crumbly topping. Make sure your butter is straight from the fridge when you start the topping.

2. Customize Your Spices: If you prefer a different spice profile, feel free to adjust the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to your taste. You can even add a pinch of allspice or cardamom for a unique twist.

3. Add Nuts for Crunch: Nuts add a delightful crunch to the crisp topping, but if you’re not a fan or have allergies, you can omit them or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

4. Make Ahead: This Pumpkin Pie Crisp can be made a day in advance. Simply prepare and bake as directed, then allow it to cool completely. Cover and store in the refrigerator. Reheat in a warm oven before serving.

5. Store Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm in the oven before enjoying.

Variations to Try

1. Apple-Pumpkin Crisp: Add diced apples to the pumpkin filling for a fruity twist.

2. Maple Pumpkin Crisp: Replace some of the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup for a rich, autumnal flavor.

3. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour in the topping with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dessert gluten-free.

4. Vegan Pumpkin Crisp: Use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute in place of the butter, and replace the eggs with a flax or chia egg in the filling.

5. Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Crisp: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the pumpkin filling before adding the crisp topping for a touch of chocolatey goodness.

Why You’ll Love Chef Sadie’s Pumpkin Pie Crisp

Pumpkin Pie Crisp is the ultimate fall dessert, combining the best parts of a classic pumpkin pie with the irresistible texture of a crisp. The creamy, spiced pumpkin filling pairs perfectly with the crunchy, buttery topping, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re serving this at a holiday gathering or enjoying it as a weeknight treat, this Pumpkin Pie Crisp is sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.

10 nutritional facts about pumpkin, particularly beneficial for kids:

Rich in Vitamin A: Pumpkin is packed with vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision, immune function, and skin health in growing children.
High in Fiber: Pumpkin contains a good amount of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and helping to prevent constipation, a common issue in kids.
Low in Calories: Despite its sweet taste, pumpkin is low in calories, making it a great addition to a healthy diet without contributing to excess weight gain.
Loaded with Antioxidants: Pumpkin is rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene, which helps protect kids’ cells from damage and supports overall health.
Boosts Immunity: The vitamin C content in pumpkin strengthens the immune system, helping kids fight off colds and infections more effectively.
Supports Strong Bones: Pumpkin provides a good amount of calcium and magnesium, both of which are crucial for the development of strong and healthy bones in children.
Promotes Heart Health: Pumpkin’s high potassium content helps regulate blood pressure, supporting cardiovascular health from an early age.
Good Source of Iron: Pumpkin contains iron, which is important for preventing anemia and ensuring that kids have enough energy to stay active.
Hydrating: With its high water content, pumpkin helps keep kids hydrated, which is especially important for maintaining energy levels and concentration.
Contains Protein: While not extremely high, pumpkin does provide some plant-based protein, which is essential for growth and muscle development in children.

Incorporating pumpkin into kids’ diets can offer numerous health benefits, making it a nutritious choice for meals and snacks.