Pumpkin Pie Crisp

Pumpkin pie crisp is a dessert that’s both delicious and comforting, with endless ways to serve and enjoy it. Whether you’re pairing it with vanilla ice cream, drizzling it with caramel, or enjoying it for breakfast with yogurt, there’s no wrong way to indulge in this fall favorite. Plus, with its natural health benefits, you can feel good about treating yourself to a warm and cozy bowl of pumpkin goodness.

So, the next time you’re craving a festive dessert, try this easy, flavorful, and customizable pumpkin pie crisp recipe. You won’t be disappointed!

What is Pumpkin Pie Crisp?

Pumpkin pie crisp takes the creamy, spiced goodness of pumpkin pie filling and pairs it with a crunchy oat-based topping similar to an apple crisp. Unlike traditional pumpkin pie, this version doesn’t require a pie crust, making it much easier to prepare. The result is a deliciously warm, custardy base with a golden, crisp topping that adds an irresistible texture contrast.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Crisp

For the Pumpkin Filling:

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Crisp Topping:

• ¾ cup old-fashioned oats
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Substitutes:

• Use almond or oat milk instead of evaporated milk for a dairy-free option
• Swap flour with almond or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version
• Coconut sugar can replace brown sugar for a refined sugar-free version

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugars, vanilla extract, and spices until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

2. Make the Crisp Topping

1. In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the ingredients form a crumbly texture.
3. Stir in chopped nuts if using.

3. Assemble and Bake

1. Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the pumpkin filling.
2. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the topping is golden brown.
3. Let it cool slightly before serving for the best texture.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Pie Crisp

• Use cold butter for a crumblier, chunkier crisp topping.
• Don’t overbake—the center should be slightly jiggly but not runny.
• Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving for the best consistency.

Variations of Pumpkin Pie Crisp

• Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free oats and flour.
• Vegan Version – Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter.
• Add Toppings – Try drizzling caramel sauce or adding a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information of Pumpkin Pie Crisp

While pumpkin pie crisp is undoubtedly an indulgent dessert, it also offers some surprising health benefits—especially because of the nutrient-rich pumpkin. Let’s take a closer look at what’s inside this fall favorite.

1. Key Nutrients in Pumpkin Pie Crisp

Nutrient	Benefit
Vitamin A	Supports eye health and boosts immunity
Fiber	Aids digestion and helps keep you full
Antioxidants	Protects against free radicals and inflammation
Iron	Supports oxygen transport in the blood
Healthy Fats	Found in nuts and butter, providing sustained energy

2. Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Pumpkin is low in calories but high in nutrients, making it one of the healthiest ingredients in fall baking. Here’s why it’s so good for you:

• Rich in Beta-Carotene: This antioxidant converts into Vitamin A, which helps with vision, immune support, and skin health.
• High in Fiber: A single serving of pumpkin provides a good amount of fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer.
• Boosts Heart Health: The potassium in pumpkin helps regulate blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease.
• Supports Immunity: With its high Vitamin C content, pumpkin can help strengthen your immune system, especially during colder months.

3. Can Pumpkin Pie Crisp Be Made Healthier?

Absolutely! While traditional pumpkin pie crisp is made with butter and sugar, there are simple tweaks to make it a bit healthier:

• Use less sugar – Reduce the sugar content by using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
• Opt for whole wheat flour – Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for more fiber.
• Try coconut oil instead of butter – This adds healthy fats and a slight tropical twist to the flavor.
• Use nuts for crunch – Instead of using extra sugar in the crisp topping, add chopped nuts for natural sweetness and texture.

4. How Many Calories Are in Pumpkin Pie Crisp?

A standard serving of pumpkin pie crisp (about 1 cup) contains approximately 250-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Adding toppings like ice cream or caramel will increase the calorie count, while healthier ingredient swaps can help reduce it.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Pumpkin Pie Crisp is a warm, comforting dessert that truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. Whether you’re serving it as the star of your Thanksgiving table or just indulging in a cozy fall treat, the right pairings can elevate the experience to a whole new level. Let’s explore some of the best ways to serve and enhance the flavors of this delectable dessert.

1. Classic Pairings: Ice Cream and Whipped Cream

One of the best ways to enjoy pumpkin pie crisp is by pairing it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm, spiced pumpkin filling and the cold, smooth ice cream creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The richness of vanilla ice cream complements the bold flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

If you’re not a fan of ice cream, whipped cream is another fantastic option. A dollop of freshly whipped cream, lightly sweetened with a hint of vanilla, adds a cloud-like texture that balances the crunchy crisp topping. For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg over the whipped cream before serving.

2. Drizzles and Toppings: Caramel and Nuts

To make your pumpkin pie crisp even more decadent, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top just before serving. The deep, buttery sweetness of caramel enhances the natural sweetness of pumpkin and adds a luxurious touch.

If you love a little crunch, chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts make an excellent addition. Their nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the spices in the crisp, creating an even richer and more textured dessert. Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.

3. Beverage Pairings: Coffee, Tea, and Cocktails

A warm dessert like pumpkin pie crisp deserves a cozy beverage pairing. Here are a few great drink options:

• Pumpkin Spice Latte – A match made in fall dessert heaven! The creamy, spiced flavors of a pumpkin spice latte enhance the warm spices in the crisp.
• Chai Tea – If you prefer tea over coffee, a spiced chai is an excellent choice. The mix of cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom complements the flavors in the crisp beautifully.
• Hot Apple Cider – The sweet-tart taste of apple cider balances the creamy pumpkin filling, adding a refreshing contrast.
• Bourbon or Spiced Rum – For an adult twist, pair your pumpkin pie crisp with a bourbon-based cocktail or a spiced rum drink. The deep, warm flavors of the liquor blend perfectly with the fall spices.

4. Breakfast Twist: Yogurt and Granola

Who says pumpkin pie crisp is only for dessert? Turn it into a breakfast treat by serving it with a scoop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola. The tanginess of the yogurt provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the pumpkin filling, while the granola adds an extra crunch. This is a great way to enjoy leftovers in a fresh and exciting way.

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Pie Crisp

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Pumpkin is packed with nutrients like vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants, which help boost immunity and support healthy skin. It’s also low in calories, making this dessert a relatively guilt-free indulgence.

Pumpkin Pie Crisp vs. Other Fall Desserts

Feature	Pumpkin Pie Crisp	Pumpkin Pie	Apple Crisp
Crust Required?	No	Yes	No
Texture	Crunchy & creamy	Smooth & firm	Crunchy & juicy
Effort Level	Easy	Moderate	Easy
Common Toppings	Whipped cream, ice cream	Whipped cream	Ice cream, caramel

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make pumpkin pie crisp ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving for the best taste.

2. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just puree cooked pumpkin until smooth before using.

3. How do I keep the crisp topping crunchy?

Avoid covering it while it’s still warm, and reheat it in the oven instead of the microwave.

4. Is pumpkin pie crisp gluten-free?

It can be! Just use gluten-free flour and oats in the topping.

5. What’s the best way to serve pumpkin pie crisp?

Warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate fall dessert experience.

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