There’s something about the fall season that makes us reach for warm, spiced desserts that feel like a cozy hug on a chilly evening. Pumpkin Pie Crumble takes everything you love about traditional pumpkin pie—the rich, silky pumpkin filling and seasonal spices—and adds a buttery, crunchy topping studded with pecans and oats. It’s like baking your favorite autumn memories into a 9×13-inch pan, then pulling it from the oven as the house fills with delightful wafts of cinnamon and ginger. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or curling up on the couch with a loved one, this dessert delivers comfort, nostalgia, and just the right amount of sweet indulgence.
In my kitchen, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve whipped up this treat for friends and family. One memorable afternoon, as the leaves tumbled outside, I could hear laughter from the living room while the crumble bubbled away. That moment of lifting the crumble from the oven, the golden topping crackling as steam rose, felt like pure culinary magic. Each bite offers a symphony of flavors—the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, the warm spice notes dancing on your tongue, and the satisfying crunch of pecans and buttery crumble. It’s simple enough for a beginner baker, yet impressive enough to steal the show at any potluck. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself scribbling down the recipe to keep forever.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN PUMPKIN PIE CRUMBLE
Every unforgettable dish starts with its core components, and this Pumpkin Pie Crumble is no exception. From the velvety pumpkin puree to the nutty pecans, each ingredient works together to create a balanced dessert that you’ll want to return to year after year. Let’s break down what makes this crumble so irresistible:
- Pumpkin puree
This creamy base delivers that classic pumpkin flavor and smooth texture. It’s the heart of the filling, bringing moisture, color, and a hint of natural sweetness.
- Granulated sugar
Essential for sweetening the filling, granulated sugar helps the pumpkin mixture set properly and achieve a silky consistency without being overly dense.
- Ground cinnamon
A signature spice in pumpkin desserts, cinnamon adds warmth and depth, enhancing the earthy pumpkin notes and complementing the other spices.
- Ground ginger
With a subtle kick and bright, peppery edge, ginger gives the filling a lively balance, preventing the sweetness from feeling one-dimensional.
- Ground cloves
Just a pinch of cloves imparts a rich, almost heady spice that melds beautifully with cinnamon and ginger for that quintessential fall flavor profile.
- Salt
Salt is a flavor enhancer that sharpens the sweetness and spices, making sure every note of the crumble sings in harmony.
- Eggs
Eggs act as a binder and provide structure, ensuring the filling holds together as it bakes and gives it a luscious, custard-like texture.
- Evaporated milk
Richer than regular milk, evaporated milk adds creaminess without thinning out the filling, helping it set into a firm yet tender layer.
- All-purpose flour
The foundation of the crumble topping, flour creates the base that, when combined with sugar and butter, becomes a crisp, golden layer.
- Brown sugar
Packed with molasses, brown sugar brings a deeper sweetness and chewy texture to the crumble, balancing the lighter granulated sugar in the filling.
- Quick-cooking oats
Oats contribute a hearty, rustic texture and help bind the crumble, adding chewiness and a delightful contrast to the smooth pumpkin.
- Cold unsalted butter
Cubed and cold, butter is cut into the flour mixture to create flaky, tender crumbs. Its fat content is key for that melt-in-your-mouth richness.
- Chopped pecans
Pecans deliver a toasty crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the crumble topping, making each bite even more satisfying.
HOW TO MAKE PUMPKIN PIE CRUMBLE
Before you dive into the step-by-step baking process, gather your bowls, utensils, and a 9×13-inch baking dish. You’ll see how easy it is to layer flavors—from a smooth spiced filling to a buttery, pecan-studded crumble. Ready your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s transform simple pantry staples into a show-stopping dessert!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and that golden-brown finish on your crumble topping.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and eggs. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the color is uniform.
3. Stir in the evaporated milk gradually, pouring a little at a time and whisking to keep the filling velvety and lump-free.
4. Pour the pumpkin mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer to ensure each bite bakes uniformly.
5. In another bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, oats, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt until they’re well combined.
6. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork, working until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs dotted with pea-sized butter pieces.
7. Stir in the chopped pecans, distributing them throughout the crumble for crunchy pops in every spoonful.
8. Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the pumpkin filling, covering the surface completely so that the topping bakes into a golden crust.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the crumble is golden brown and the pumpkin layer is set (it should wiggle only slightly).
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This rest time allows the filling to firm up for perfect slicing.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR PUMPKIN PIE CRUMBLE
When it comes to serving this Pumpkin Pie Crumble, the possibilities are endless and every option feels like a treat. Whether you prefer something cool and creamy alongside the warm crust or a drizzle of something special, these ideas will help you present your dessert like a charming fall centerpiece. I’ve found that taking a few extra moments to plate and garnish can turn weeknight baking into a festive occasion.
- Serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, letting the cold cream slowly melt into the warm crumble for a dreamy contrast of temperatures.
- Top individual portions with a dollop of whipped cream, dusted lightly with cinnamon or nutmeg to complement the spice profile.
- Drizzle a spoonful of maple syrup or caramel sauce in a crisscross pattern over the warm crumble for extra sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a few whole pecans on top to add color and a hint of herbal brightness, perfect for holiday tables.
HOW TO STORE PUMPKIN PIE CRUMBLE
Storing your pumpkin pie crumble correctly ensures you’ll enjoy that freshly made flavor and perfect texture long after the first serving. Whether you plan to savor leftovers over a few days or prep ahead for a gathering, these tips will keep your dessert tasting its best. Remember, the key is to protect both the moisture of the filling and the crispness of the topping.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days: allow the crumble to cool completely, then transfer it to a container that seals tightly to lock in moisture and prevent the topping from becoming soggy.
- Reheat individual servings in the oven at 325°F for 10–12 minutes: this will refresh the crispness of the crumble, unlike a microwave, which can steam the topping.
- Freeze in portioned slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil: freeze for up to one month, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
- Store topping separately in a sealed bag if you plan to bake later: mix and chill the dry crumble components, then cut in the butter and add nuts just before you’re ready to bake for maximum crunch.
CONCLUSION
From the moment you stir together that velvety pumpkin filling to the final crackle of the golden crumble topping, this Pumpkin Pie Crumble recipe is all about embracing the flavors of fall and sharing warmth with the people you love. We’ve covered everything you need: from the core ingredients—like rich pumpkin puree, fragrant spices, and buttery oats—to the step-by-step baking process that delivers picture-perfect results every time. You’ve discovered serving ideas that transform a simple dessert into a festive showstopper, plus storage methods to keep your leftovers tasting just as fresh and crunchy days later. Feel free to print this article and save it in your recipe binder for easy reference or gift it to a friend who’s ready to bake up some seasonal magic.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this crumble is designed for success. It’s beginner-friendly, requires only pantry staples, and yields slices so satisfying you’ll find every guest asking for seconds. Don’t forget—you can scroll down to find an FAQ section that answers common questions about substitutions, baking times, and troubleshooting. I’d love to hear how your crumble turned out! Please leave a comment below with your thoughts, any tips you discovered, or questions you have. Your feedback not only helps me but also inspires fellow home cooks to embrace the joy of holiday baking. Happy baking, and may every bite bring a burst of cozy, autumnal delight!
Pumpkin Pie Crumble
Description
Warm, spiced pumpkin filling topped with a buttery crumble and crunchy pecans makes this pie crumble a cozy, irresistible treat. Perfect for gatherings!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and eggs. Mix until well blended.
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Stir in the evaporated milk gradually, ensuring a smooth filling.
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Pour the pumpkin mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
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In another bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, oats, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
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Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Stir in the chopped pecans.
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Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the pumpkin filling.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the crumble is golden brown and the filling is set.
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Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Note
- This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or skip them if you prefer a nut-free version.
- For an extra flavor burst, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the pumpkin filling.
- Ensure your oven is properly preheated to achieve an even bake.
- This pumpkin pie crumble can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
