As autumn settles in and kitchens begin to smell like cinnamon and spice, there is nothing more comforting than a warm pumpkin dessert fresh from the oven. Pumpkin Pie Crisp with Cinnamon Streusel is the perfect balance between classic pumpkin pie and a buttery fruit crisp. It delivers the smooth, spiced pumpkin filling you love, topped with a golden, crumbly streusel that adds texture and warmth in every bite.
This dessert is ideal for busy fall days, holiday gatherings, or quiet evenings when you want something cozy without the effort of rolling dough or fussing over a crust. It feels nostalgic and familiar, yet slightly different from the traditional pie, which makes it exciting to serve year after year. Whether paired with vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this pumpkin pie crisp quickly becomes a seasonal favorite.
Why This Pumpkin Pie Crisp Deserves a Spot on Your Table
Pumpkin desserts are everywhere in autumn, but this one stands out for several reasons. First, it is far easier than a classic pumpkin pie. There is no crust to chill, roll, or blind bake. Everything comes together in simple bowls with everyday ingredients.
Second, the texture is unbeatable. The creamy pumpkin layer melts in your mouth, while the cinnamon streusel topping adds a buttery crunch that contrasts beautifully. Every spoonful delivers warmth, spice, and comfort.
Finally, this recipe is incredibly flexible. It works for casual weeknights, family dinners, and even holiday tables. You can dress it up with ice cream and garnishes or keep it simple and rustic.
Ingredients You Will Need
The ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Crisp with Cinnamon Streusel are straightforward and easy to find, especially during fall. Each one plays an important role in building flavor and texture.
Pumpkin purée forms the base of the filling. It provides natural sweetness, color, and that unmistakable autumn flavor. Use pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling.
Evaporated milk adds richness and creaminess without making the filling too heavy. It creates a smooth, custard-like texture.
Granulated sugar sweetens the filling while allowing the pumpkin and spices to shine.
Eggs help set the filling and give it structure so it slices and scoops beautifully.
Pumpkin pie spice brings together cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for classic fall warmth.
Cinnamon deepens the spice profile and pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
Vanilla extract rounds out the sweetness and adds aroma.
A pinch of salt balances the sugar and enhances all the flavors.
All-purpose flour forms the base of the streusel topping.
Brown sugar adds moisture and a caramel-like sweetness to the topping.
Cold unsalted butter creates those irresistible crumbly clusters when mixed into the streusel.
Extra cinnamon in the topping ties everything together.
Vanilla ice cream is optional but highly recommended for serving. Its cold creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm crisp.
How This Dessert Comes Together
This Pumpkin Pie Crisp with Cinnamon Streusel is built in simple layers. Each step is designed to be approachable, even for beginner bakers.
Preparing the Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly heated oven ensures even baking and prevents the filling from staying runny.
Choose a 9×9-inch baking dish or a small cast iron skillet for a rustic presentation. Grease it well with butter or cooking spray so the crisp releases easily when serving.
Making the Pumpkin Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and eggs until smooth. Add the pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk again until everything is fully blended.
The mixture should look silky and evenly spiced. Pour the filling into your prepared baking dish and spread it gently into an even layer.
Preparing the Cinnamon Streusel
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until well distributed.
Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingertips. Continue until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter. This texture is what creates the crisp, crunchy topping during baking.
Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the pumpkin filling, covering the surface without pressing it down.
Baking the Crisp
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes. The exact time depends on your oven and the depth of your dish.
The crisp is ready when the topping is golden brown and the edges of the filling are set, while the center still has a slight jiggle. If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes. This resting time helps the filling firm up and makes serving easier.
Serving the Pumpkin Pie Crisp
Serve the crisp warm for the best flavor and texture. Spoon it into bowls and top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between warm pumpkin and cold ice cream is one of the highlights of this dessert.
For an extra touch, dust the top lightly with cinnamon or add a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Tips for Perfect Results
Use pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness and spice.
Keep the butter very cold when making the streusel. Cold butter creates better crumbs and a crispier topping.
Do not overbake. A slightly soft center will continue to set as the crisp cools.
If you prefer extra crunch, chill the streusel topping for 10 to 15 minutes before sprinkling it over the filling.
Always serve warm for the best flavor, especially if adding ice cream.
Equipment You Will Need
A 9×9-inch baking dish or small cast iron skillet
Two mixing bowls
A whisk
A pastry cutter or your fingers
Measuring cups and spoons
Variations to Try
Nutty version: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel for added crunch and flavor.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the streusel.
Dairy-free version: Replace evaporated milk with coconut milk and butter with a dairy-free alternative.
Extra spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the pumpkin filling for deeper warmth.
Chocolate twist: Drizzle melted chocolate over the baked crisp before serving for a decadent finish.
Serving Ideas for Any Occasion
Serve in individual ramekins for dinner parties or holiday gatherings.
Pair with coffee, chai, or spiced tea for a cozy dessert experience.
Add whipped cream for a lighter topping option.
Garnish with candied pecans or pumpkin seeds for visual appeal.
Make-Ahead and Storage Notes
This Pumpkin Pie Crisp with Cinnamon Streusel can be partially prepared ahead of time. The pumpkin filling and streusel topping can be made separately and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble and bake when ready.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to restore the crisp topping, or microwave individual portions if needed.
The baked crisp can also be frozen for up to three months. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the filling and streusel separately and assemble just before baking. You can also bake it fully and reheat before serving.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
Coconut milk, whole milk, or almond milk can be used. The texture may be slightly lighter, but the flavor will still be delicious.
How do I know when it is done baking?
The topping should be golden brown, and the filling should be set around the edges with a slight jiggle in the center.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Crisp with Cinnamon Streusel?
Yes. Freeze after baking and cooling completely. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Is this dessert sweeter than pumpkin pie?
It is similar in sweetness but feels richer due to the streusel topping. You can reduce the sugar slightly if preferred.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Pie Crisp with Cinnamon Streusel captures everything we love about fall desserts. It is warm, comforting, simple to make, and full of familiar flavors that bring people together. The creamy pumpkin filling and crunchy cinnamon topping create a dessert that feels special without being complicated.
Whether you serve it on a quiet evening at home or as part of a festive holiday spread, this recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and a sense of seasonal joy. Once you make it, it is likely to become a tradition you look forward to every autumn.