If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy fall dessert, then this Pumpkin Crisp needs to be at the very top of your baking list. Imagine a creamy, spiced pumpkin custard sandwiched between layers of buttery oat crisp, with every spoonful offering a delightful crunch and melt-in-your-mouth richness. Whether you serve it for a holiday gathering or simply crave a taste of autumn, Pumpkin Crisp is that perfect blend of tradition and excitement—sure to make any kitchen feel like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every component in this Pumpkin Crisp contributes something special: warmth from spice, mellow sweetness from pumpkin, and irresistible texture from the oat-packed crisp topping. With accessible, pantry-friendly ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how each one shines through in the finished dessert.

Quick-cooking oats: These provide that beloved hearty and slightly chewy texture in the crisp, creating a rustic contrast to the creamy pumpkin layer.
All-purpose flour: Flour binds the crisp topping, helping it bake into golden, chunky pieces that hold their shape beautifully.
Light brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes to the crisp mixture and boosts the overall coziness of the dessert.
Pumpkin pie spice: Infuses both the pumpkin filling and the crisp with classic autumn flavors—think cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
Unsalted butter (cold, cubed): Cold butter is key for that irresistible crumble: when baked, it melts and creates pockets of crispiness.
Large eggs (room temperature): These provide structure and richness to the pumpkin layer, so your filling sets just right.
Granulated sugar: Brings sweetness to the pumpkin mixture without overshadowing the spices and pumpkin flavor itself.
Pure pumpkin (canned): The star of the show! This delivers both creaminess and beautiful color to your Pumpkin Crisp.
Heavy cream: Adds luscious silkiness to the pumpkin filling, making each bite ultra-smooth.
Vanilla extract: A splash rounds out all the flavors, subtly enhancing both warmth and aroma.
Kosher salt: Just a touch is all it takes to balance the sweetness and wake up all the other flavors.

How to Make Pumpkin Crisp

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F, and grab your favorite 12-inch oven-safe skillet. Give it a light coating of nonstick cooking spray—this keeps all those gorgeous crisp layers from sticking, making for effortless serving later on.

Step 2: Mix the Crisp Topping

In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Toss everything together, then add in your cubes of cold butter. Use your hands or a fork and gently work the butter in until it’s well incorporated and no piece is larger than a pea. This is what gives the Pumpkin Crisp its signature crumbly topping—don’t rush this step!

Step 3: Build the Crisp’s Base

Take 4 cups of the crisp mixture and firmly press it into the bottom and up the sides of your prepared skillet, forming a thick, even layer. This becomes the crunchy platform for your pumpkin filling. Set the rest of the crisp topping aside for the grand finale.

Step 4: Whisk the Pumpkin Filling

In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until smooth and a little frothy. Now stir in the pure pumpkin, heavy cream, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and kosher salt. Whisk until everything is completely incorporated and silky—this mixture should look creamy and luxuriously orange.

Step 5: Assemble and Top

Carefully pour your pumpkin mixture over the oat crisp base in the skillet. Sprinkle the reserved crisp mixture evenly over the top. These layers are what make Pumpkin Crisp truly irresistible, offering double the crunch and double the flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake, uncovered, for 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the edges bubble slightly. Don’t be shy—let those wonderful autumnal smells fill your kitchen! You can enjoy this dessert warm or chilled, whichever suits your mood.

How to Serve Pumpkin Crisp

Garnishes

For a classic finish, top each serving of Pumpkin Crisp with a cloud of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of extra pumpkin pie spice will make it look just as beautiful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

While Pumpkin Crisp is definitely the star, it pairs beautifully with a warm chai latte, spiced coffee, or a scoop of cinnamon ice cream. For a fall-themed spread, serve it with roasted pecans or maple-glazed apples.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling fancy, try baking individual Pumpkin Crisps in ramekins for elegant single-serve treats. Or, serve the crisp family-style straight from the skillet for a rustic and welcoming touch—this always sparks conversation around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Pumpkin Crisp left after dessert (which is never guaranteed!), simply cover the skillet tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days for optimal freshness and texture.

Freezing

To prolong the life of your Pumpkin Crisp, let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and your dessert will taste as lovely as the day you made it, though the crisp topping might soften slightly.

Reheating

For that fresh-from-the-oven magic, reheat Pumpkin Crisp in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds, but oven reheating will help re-crisp the topping.

FAQs

Can I make Pumpkin Crisp gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend, and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. The result is delightfully close to the original with virtually no change in flavor or texture.

What’s the difference between Pumpkin Crisp and pumpkin pie?

Pumpkin Crisp combines a creamy, spiced pumpkin filling like traditional pie but replaces pie dough with a crunchy, buttery oat topping. It’s less fussy to make, with double the crisp and an extra hit of texture!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use homemade pumpkin puree! Just be sure to drain any excess moisture, so your filling stays thick and luscious. Canned pumpkin is a time-saver and highly consistent, but fresh puree works beautifully too.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the crisp?

Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a handful of dried cranberries can be mixed into the crisp topping for added crunch and flavor dimension. Just add them in with your oats, flour, and sugar before the butter.

What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Keep leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to four days. To reheat, use the oven if possible to crisp up the top, or microwave for quick convenience (though the topping will be softer).

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Pumpkin Crisp enough for anyone craving a comforting, delicious, and incredibly simple fall dessert. There’s something truly magical about the mix of creamy filling and crispy topping, and each batch never fails to gather everyone around the table! Give it a try, and this cozy treat may just become your favorite way to celebrate pumpkin season.