Fall is here, and that means it’s time for pumpkin treats! If you love pumpkin pie but crave something a bit different, try my Pumpkin Pie Crisp. This dessert combines creamy pumpkin filling with a crunchy topping for a delightful twist. It’s simple to make, perfect for gatherings, and will fill your home with the warmth of spices. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will soon become a fall favorite!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups pumpkin puree
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– Optional toppings: Whipped cream or creamy vanilla ice cream
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Pumpkin Pie Crisp. You need to start with fresh pumpkin puree. If you want, you can also use canned puree. This gives a sweet and rich flavor.
Next, brown sugar adds sweetness and depth. Ground spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves bring warmth. Sea salt balances the sweetness.
You’ll also need two large eggs. They help bind the filling together. Pure vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma.
For the crunchy topping, rolled oats and flour create a great texture. Melted butter brings richness, while chopped nuts add a nice crunch.
Lastly, don’t forget the optional toppings! Whipped cream or ice cream makes this dessert even better. You can mix and match these ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish
– Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9-inch square baking dish. Use cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Mix Pumpkin Filling
– Combine 2 cups of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and 2 large beaten eggs in a large bowl.
– Whisk until smooth. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Prepare Topping
– In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts.
– Stir until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the pumpkin layer.
Bake and Cool
– Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. It’s done when the pumpkin layer is set and the topping is golden brown.
– After baking, allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and makes it easier to serve.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Pumpkin Layer
To make a smooth filling, mix well. Start with the pumpkin puree and brown sugar. Add spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. You can adjust the spices to fit your taste. If you love ginger, add more! This makes the pumpkin layer rich and tasty.
Achieving a Crispy Topping
For a crumblier topping, use cold butter. Mix it with oats and flour until it looks like coarse crumbs. Make sure to bake until golden brown. This adds a perfect crunch and flavor to your dessert.
Serving Recommendations
Serve the pumpkin pie crisp warm or at room temperature. For a fun touch, use whipped cream or ice cream on top. You can also sprinkle extra nuts or a dash of cinnamon. This makes your dish look and taste amazing!
Variations
Nut Options
You can switch out the pecans for walnuts or almonds. Both will add a nice crunch. If you want a nut-free version, just leave out the nuts. This makes the dish safe for kids or anyone with nut allergies.
Spice Adjustments
For a flavor boost, consider adding a pumpkin spice mix. It brings a warm, cozy taste that fits fall perfectly. You can also try extra spices like cardamom. This creates a unique twist and can make your dessert stand out.
Dietary Substitutes
If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour. It works well in the topping and keeps the crunch. For a vegan version, you can swap the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water. This keeps the texture while making it plant-based.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
You can store your pumpkin pie crisp in the fridge. Cover it well and keep it for up to 3 days. When you want to enjoy it again, reheat it gently. You can use the oven or microwave for this.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Best Ways to Reheat
To bring back the crispiness, reheat it in the oven. This method keeps the topping crunchy. If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave for a quick serving.
FAQs
Can I make Pumpkin Pie Crisp ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just cover it well and store it in the fridge. This makes it easy for you, especially during busy days. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm it in the oven.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pumpkin can be used, but it must be cooked and pureed first. This gives a nice, fresh flavor. Just steam or roast the pumpkin, then blend it until smooth. This way, you can enjoy the taste of homemade pumpkin in your crisp.
What can I serve with Pumpkin Pie Crisp?
Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce are great options. These add sweet and creamy notes that balance the spices. You can even mix and match to find your favorite topping.
How can I make it vegan?
Use flaxseed meal for eggs and coconut oil in place of butter. To make flax eggs, mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with two and a half tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. This keeps your crisp tasty and plant-based.
In this blog post, I shared a delicious recipe for Pumpkin Pie Crisp. You learned the essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions for making this treat. I also provided tips for perfecting both the pumpkin layer and the topping. Plus, you explored tasty variations and storage options.
Now you can enjoy this cozy dessert anytime. Get creative with your toppings and spices. Your friends and family will love it. Happy baking!
