Pumpkin pie crisp.
With the arrival of fall, the scent of pumpkin spice seems to be everywhere. From lattes to candles, this beloved aroma has become synonymous with the cozy autumn season. But have you ever thought about incorporating that delightful flavor into a delicious dessert? Enter the ultimate autumnal treat: Pumpkin Pie Crisp!
Imagine the perfect fusion of a classic pumpkin pie and a crisp, buttery crumble topping. This decadent dessert combines the best of both worlds, offering a creamy pumpkin filling nestled beneath a crunchy, golden-brown streusel. It’s a dessert that will have you savoring every bite, as the warm spices and rich flavors dance on your taste buds.
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply indulging in a cozy night in, Pumpkin Pie Crisp is sure to become a new family favorite. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the process of creating this irresistible autumn delight, from prepping the ingredients to achieving the perfect crisp topping and everything in between. So grab your apron, and let’s get baking!
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What is Pumpkin Pie Crisp?
Pumpkin pie crisp is a delectable dessert that combines the flavors of classic pumpkin pie with the crumbly goodness of a crisp topping. It’s the perfect fusion of two beloved treats, offering a unique and irresistible twist on traditional pumpkin desserts.
Explaining the Dessert
At its core, a pumpkin pie crisp is a decadent pumpkin filling nestled beneath a crunchy, buttery streusel topping. The filling is made with pumpkin puree, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and sweetened with sugar or maple syrup. This creamy, spiced mixture is then poured into a baking dish and topped with a generous layer of the crisp topping.
The crisp topping is a delightful blend of flour, sugar, butter, and often oats or nuts for added texture and depth of flavor. As it bakes, the topping transforms into a delightfully crispy and golden-brown crust, creating a delightful contrast with the velvety pumpkin filling beneath.
When combined and baked to perfection, these ingredients create a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent – a true celebration of fall flavors and textures in every bite!
Preparing the Ingredients
Making a delicious pumpkin pie crisp starts with gathering the right ingredients and preparing them properly. Let’s discuss the essential steps to ensure a seamless baking experience.
Gathering the Necessary Items
Before you begin, make sure you have all the required ingredients on hand. You’ll need:
- Pumpkin Puree (fresh or canned).
- All-Purpose Flour.
- Sugar.
- Ground Cinnamon.
- Ground Ginger.
- Ground Nutmeg.
- Salt.
- Butter (unsalted, at room temperature).
- Rolled Oats (optional).
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (optional).
- Eggs.
- Vanilla Extract.
- Heavy Cream.
Having everything ready to go will make the process smoother and prevent any last-minute dashes to the store or downstairs pantry.
Tips for Selecting Fresh Pumpkin
If you prefer to use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Choose a small, sweet pumpkin variety like sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins. They have a richer flavor and smoother texture than larger carving pumpkins.
- Look for pumpkins with a deep, vibrant color and a sturdy stem, which indicates freshness.
- Avoid pumpkins with soft spots, cracks, or signs of decay.
To prepare fresh pumpkin, cut it in half, scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp, and bake or steam the flesh until soft. Then, mash or puree the cooked pumpkin until smooth. Drain out any excess liquid.
Remember, fresh pumpkins may have a higher water content than canned puree, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in your recipe accordingly.
With your ingredients gathered and prepared, you’re ready to move on to the next step in creating a delightful pumpkin pie crisp that’s sure to impress!
Making the Pumpkin Pie Filling
Now that you’ve prepared the pumpkin mixture and crisp topping, it’s time to assemble your delicious pumpkin pie crisp! Follow these simple steps to layer the components and create a dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients for the Pumpkin Pie Filling
- Canned or Fresh Pumpkin Puree: For the smooth base of this recipe and that pumpkin pie taste!
- Sugar: For sweetness and rich flavor.
- Eggs: To bind all of the ingredients together.
- Pumpkin Pie Spices: For a burst of warm fall flavors!
- Salt: To enhance the flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: To balance the sweetness.
- Heavy Cream: To add creaminess to the pumpkin pie crisp.
Combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, spices, salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth.
Pour into a well-greased cast iron skillet or baking dish of choice. You want to create a smooth, even layer that will serve as the base for your crisp. Don’t be afraid to use the back of a spoon or spatula to ensure consistent coverage.
Pro Tip: For an extra touch of flavor, consider sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg over the pumpkin mixture before adding the crisp topping.
Making the Crisp Streusel Topping
The crisp topping is the star of this delicious pumpkin pie crisp. It adds a delightful crunch and buttery flavor that perfectly complements the creamy pumpkin filling. Let’s get into the details of making this irresistible topping!
Ingredients for the Topping
To create the perfect crisp topping, you’ll need:
- Flour: All-purpose flour is the base for the topping, providing structure and crispiness.
- Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar adds sweetness and a rich, caramel-like flavor.
- Cinnamon: This warm spice is a classic pairing with pumpkin, adding depth and aroma.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Butter: Melted, unsalted butter is the key to achieving a crispy texture when combined with dry ingredients.
Combine all ingredients until streusel crumbs appear in the texture of the dough.
Adding the Crisp Topping
Once the pumpkin mixture is evenly distributed, it’s time to add the crisp topping. Using a spoon or your fingers, crumble the topping evenly over the pumpkin layer. Aim for an even distribution, but don’t worry if it looks a little rustic – that’s part of the charm!
If you find that you have extra crisp topping left over, don’t hesitate to pile it on. The more topping, the crunchier and more indulgent your dessert will be.
“The key to a perfect pumpkin pie crisp is striking the right balance between the creamy pumpkin filling and the buttery, crunchy topping.” – Grandma’s Wise Words
And just like that, your pumpkin pie crisp is assembled and ready for the oven! Remember to follow the baking instructions carefully to ensure a perfectly cooked and deliciously golden-brown masterpiece.
Baking and Serving
When it comes to baking the perfect pumpkin pie crisp, temperature and timing are crucial. Let’s discuss the optimal baking conditions and explore some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.
Optimal Baking Temperature and Time
Preheat your oven to 375°F. This temperature strikes the perfect balance, ensuring that the crisp topping achieves a golden-brown crunch while the pumpkin filling sets beautifully. As a general guideline, bake your pumpkin pie crisp for 45-55 minutes. However, keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so it’s essential to keep an eye on it.
The best way to check if your crisp is done is to insert a toothpick or knife into the center. If it comes out clean, with no wet batter clinging to it, your crisp is ready to come out of the oven. Remember, the filling will continue to set as it cools, so don’t worry if it appears slightly jiggly in the center.
Serving Suggestions and Toppings
Once your pumpkin pie crisp has cooled to a safe temperature, it’s time to indulge! Here are a few serving suggestions and toppings to take your dessert to the next level:
- Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm, spiced flavors of the crisp perfectly.
- Caramel or Butterscotch Sauce: Drizzle a sweet caramel or butterscotch sauce over the top for an indulgent treat.
- Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts over the crisp for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Spiced Whipped Cream: Elevate your whipped cream by adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The rich, creamy vanilla bean ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm pumpkin flavors.
Remember, pumpkin pie crisp is best served warm, straight from the oven, or reheated gently. Enjoy this comforting dessert with family and friends, and savor every bite of the crispy topping and velvety pumpkin filling!
Conclusion
Pumpkin Pie Crisp is a delightful twist on the classic pumpkin pie, combining the warm flavors of pumpkin with a crunchy, buttery topping. By following the simple steps I covered – preparing the ingredients, making the crisp topping, assembling the layers, and baking to perfection – you can create this irresistible dessert with ease.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can customize it to your liking by adding your favorite spices or nuts to the crisp topping, or even serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a perfect treat for autumn gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply a cozy night in.
So, why not give this Pumpkin Pie Crisp a try? Share your own twist on the recipe with friends and family, and let the warm, comforting flavors of fall fill your home with joy and happiness. Remember, life is sweeter when you take the time to indulge in the little pleasures, like a slice of this delectable dessert.
Resources: Here are some helpful resources for further information.
- Pumpkin Pie Crisp – By Dixie Crystals
- Pumpkin Pie Crisp – By The Novice Chef
- Pumpkin Crisp Pie – By Dash of Sanity
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth before using it in the recipe. Canned pumpkin is more convenient and has a consistent texture, but fresh pumpkin can add a delicious homemade touch.
2. Can I make Pumpkin Pie Crisp ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crisp a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven before serving to restore its crispiness.
3. What type of oats should I use for the topping?
Old-fashioned rolled oats work best for the topping. They provide the perfect texture and crunch. Avoid using quick oats as they can become too mushy when baked.
4. Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Crisp?
Yes, you can freeze Pumpkin Pie Crisp. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Pumpkin Pie Crisp
Equipment
- 1 12 inch cast iron skillet.
- 2 mixing bowls.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Pie Filling (Fits a 12 inch cast iron skillet!)
- 29 oz can pumpkin puree.
- 2 cups sugar.
- 6 large eggs.
- 4 tsp pumpkin pie spice.
- 1 tsp salt.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream.
Cinnamon Streusel Crisp Topping
- 4 cups all-purpose flour.
- 3 cups sugar.
- 4 tsp cinnamon.
- 3 cups melted butter.
Instructions
Making the Pumpkin Pie Filling
- Combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, spices, salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth.
- Pour into a well-greased cast iron skillet or baking dish of choice. You want to create a smooth, even layer that will serve as the base for your crisp. Don't be afraid to use the back of a spoon or spatula to ensure consistent coverage.
- Pro Tip: For an extra touch of flavor, consider sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg over the pumpkin mixture before adding the crisp topping.
Making the Crisp Streusel Topping
- Combine all ingredients until streusel crumbs appear in the texture of the dough.
- Using a spoon or your fingers, crumble the topping evenly over the pumpkin layer. Aim for an even distribution, but don't worry if it looks a little rustic – that's part of the charm!
- If you find that you have extra crisp topping left over, don't hesitate to pile it on. The more topping, the crunchier and more indulgent your dessert will be.
Baking the Pumpkin Pie Crisp
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. This temperature strikes the perfect balance, ensuring that the crisp topping achieves a golden-brown crunch while the pumpkin filling sets beautifully.
- As a general guideline, bake your pumpkin pie crisp for 45-55 minutes. However, keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so it's essential to keep an eye on it.
- The best way to check if your crisp is done is to insert a toothpick or knife into the center. If it comes out clean, with no wet batter clinging to it, your crisp is ready to come out of the oven. Remember, the filling will continue to set as it cools, so don't worry if it appears slightly jiggly in the center.
Summary
I hope I have inspired you to make this recipe to enjoy and share with your friends and family.
If you were encouraged by this post, I invite you to check out my FREE Printables Page for fun free printables, planners, and charts.
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Here are some more of my cast iron cooking inspiration posts to check out!
How to Make Tater Tot Nachos (Tatchos!)
Tater Tot Casserole: How to Make Tater Tot Casserole with Your Dutch Oven
How to Make Red, White, and Boom Cobbler
How to Make Sourdough Chocolate Cake
Old Fashioned Blueberry Cobbler: Easy Recipe for Beginners!
Shoofly Pie Recipe: The Best Pantry Staple Dessert!
The Best Old-Fashioned Homemade Brownies: A Cast Iron Skillet Recipe!
How to Make Dutch Oven Lasagna
How to Make Black Bean Burgers from the Garden!
Blessings,
The Off Grid Barefoot Girl
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