Name: Pumpkin Crisp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can pumpkin puree; 0.5 cup brown sugar; 0.5 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1 can evaporated milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1.5 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 0.25 teaspoon salt 1 cup old-fashioned oats; 0.5 cup all-purpose flour; 0.5 cup chopped pecans; 0.5 cup melted butter

Pumpkin crisp is one of those cozy desserts that instantly brings the essence of fall into your kitchen. The warm spiced pumpkin base, paired with a golden, buttery oat topping, creates a contrast that’s pure magic. It’s like pumpkin pie took a crunchy twist — no crust needed.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want something comforting on a cool evening, this dessert is the kind that invites everyone to grab a spoon. Best part? It’s super simple to make, yet feels indulgent with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Crisp

This pumpkin crisp is everything we love about autumn. It’s bursting with the richness of pumpkin and cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, all balanced with the crunch of oats and brown sugar. You don’t need to roll out dough or stress about the perfect crust — this is a no-fuss, maximum-comfort dessert.

It’s also endlessly adaptable. Want to make it dairy-free? Easy. Want to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? Absolutely. The crisp topping can be made ahead, making your life easier during busy days.

Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?

Yes, you can! If you’re feeling ambitious and want to use fresh pumpkin puree, just make sure it’s well-drained and smooth. Canned pumpkin is thicker and more consistent, but fresh brings a slightly different, more earthy flavor. If you go the fresh route, roast your pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend it until silky. Just avoid using pumpkin pie filling, which is pre-sweetened and spiced.

Ingredients for the Pumpkin Crisp

The beauty of this pumpkin crisp lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a role in creating that rich, cozy flavor that defines fall desserts.

Pumpkin puree: The star of the show. It brings creamy texture and that beloved earthy sweetness.
Brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and enhances the warmth of the spices.
Granulated sugar: Balances the brown sugar and helps create a smooth pumpkin base.
Eggs: Helps bind everything together and adds structure to the filling.
Evaporated milk: Adds creaminess and a mellow flavor that complements the pumpkin.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
Pumpkin pie spice: A must-have blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
Old-fashioned oats: Adds crunch and chewiness to the crisp topping.
All-purpose flour: Helps hold the topping together.
Chopped pecans: Gives a toasty, nutty crunch that’s irresistible.
Butter: Melted and mixed into the topping for that golden finish.

How To Make the Pumpkin Crisp

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.

Step 2: Pour Into the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the pumpkin filling into it. Smooth it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Make the Crisp Topping

In a separate bowl, stir together the oats, flour, chopped pecans, and brown sugar. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Step 4: Add Topping and Bake

Evenly sprinkle the crisp topping over the pumpkin filling. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the center is set.

Step 5: Cool Slightly Before Serving

Let the pumpkin crisp cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. It will firm up a bit as it rests, making it easier to scoop.

How to Serve and Store Pumpkin Crisp

Pumpkin crisp is best served warm, ideally with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. That contrast between the cold topping and warm filling is unbeatable. It’s also great at room temperature, and the flavors deepen as it sits.

This recipe comfortably serves 8 to 10 people. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual servings in the microwave or pop the whole dish back into a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes to revive that crispy topping.

What to Serve With Pumpkin Crisp?

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

You can’t go wrong with classic vanilla. The creaminess and coolness pair beautifully with the warm spiced filling.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle a bit over your serving for an extra indulgent touch. The salt brings out the richness of the pumpkin.

Whipped Cream

Light, airy whipped cream balances the dense filling. Add a pinch of cinnamon on top for flair.

Maple Glazed Pecans

These bring added crunch and a bit of maple sweetness to every bite.

Hot Apple Cider

Sip alongside your dessert to stay in the autumn mood.

Chai Latte

Spicy and warming, it complements the spice profile of the pumpkin crisp beautifully.

Espresso or Black Coffee

For those who like a contrast, the bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the dessert.

Spiced Rum or Bourbon

For an adult twist, a splash on top or served on the side enhances the spices and adds a grown-up depth.

Want More Fall Dessert Ideas?

If you loved this warm and cozy crisp, you might fall for these other fall-ready treats:

Warm and Cozy Apple Crisp for an orchard-fresh classic.
Pumpkin Bread With Maple Cream Cheese Filling if you’re looking for something portable.
Carrot Pound Cake when you want depth, texture, and spice.
Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies if you’re craving crisp and creamy in one bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with pecans or walnuts? Ice cream or whipped cream?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and comforting seasonal desserts on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next favorite treat!

Conclusion

Pumpkin crisp brings all the cozy flavors of fall into one fuss-free, delicious dessert. It’s comforting, crunchy, creamy, and completely crowd-pleasing. Whether for a holiday gathering or a quiet night in, this dessert fits any autumn mood. Make it once, and you’ll be asked for it every year after.