If you are craving a cozy fall dessert that perfectly marries the flavors of autumn, you have to try this Pumpkin Spice Apple Crisp Recipe. This delightful treat combines tender, spiced apples and velvety pumpkin puree under a crispy, buttery oat topping. Every bite bursts with warmth and comfort, making it a go-to for chilly evenings or festive gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned baking enthusiast or just looking to whip up something simple yet sensational, this recipe delivers rich seasonal flavors with a rustic, homemade charm that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Pumpkin Spice Apple Crisp Recipe is simple, yet each one is crucial to achieving that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the sweetness of brown sugar to the earthiness of pumpkin puree, these components work in harmony to create an unforgettable fall dessert.
- 3 large apples, sliced: Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to balance sweetness and keep a nice texture.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Adds creamy moisture and that signature autumn flavor we all adore.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that enhances the fruit.
- 1/2 cup rolled oats: Creates a wonderfully crunchy topping with a satisfying chew.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps bind the crisp topping and adds structure.
- 1/4 cup butter, softened: Enriches the topping with a luscious, tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice: The magical blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that defines the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Elevates the warm spice profile and complements the apples perfectly.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the overall flavors.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Apple Crisp Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature ensures the apples soften gently while the topping crisps to golden perfection without burning.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple and Pumpkin Layer
Layer the sliced apples in your baking dish, spreading them evenly. Then dollop the pumpkin puree right on top, smoothing it out gently. Sprinkle both the cinnamon and pumpkin spice evenly over the fruit. This step sets the stage, infusing the base with layered autumn flavors.
Step 3: Mix the Crisp Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, softened butter, and a pinch of salt. Use your fingers or a fork to blend everything until it becomes crumbly and sandy in texture. This topping will deliver that irresistible crunchy contrast to the soft fruit filling.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Evenly scatter the crumbly topping over the pumpkin and apple layers, making sure to cover them well. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The topping should turn a beautiful golden brown, and the apples will be bubbling and tender underneath.
Step 5: Cool and Serve Warm
Once out of the oven, allow the crisp to cool just slightly — about 10 minutes is perfect. This resting time helps the flavors mingle and prevents burning your tongue when you dig in.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Apple Crisp Recipe
Garnishes
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream are classic toppings that bring a creamy coolness to the warm, spiced filling. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of extra cinnamon can provide a lovely finishing touch and some extra texture contrast.
Side Dishes
This Pumpkin Spice Apple Crisp Recipe shines as a standalone dessert but pairs beautifully with a hot beverage like spiced chai tea, freshly brewed coffee, or even a glass of warm apple cider for an extra cozy autumnal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in rustic ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for charming presentation that’s perfect for guests. For a fun twist, spoon the crisp over pancakes or waffles for a decadent brunch treat that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Pumpkin Spice Apple Crisp Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually develop more deeply overnight, so leftovers can taste even better than fresh out of the oven.
Freezing
This crisp freezes exceptionally well. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or store in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy a comforting dessert anytime autumn cravings strike.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain the topping’s delightful crunch and texture. A gentle reheat brings back that freshly baked goodness perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! You can roast and puree fresh pumpkin, but make sure to cook it down so it’s thick and smooth to mimic the texture of canned pumpkin puree for best results in this recipe.
What kind of apples work best for this recipe?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are ideal because they hold their shape well during baking and offer a nice balance of tartness against the sweetness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and make sure your oats are certified gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly but the flavors will stay rich and delicious.
Is it possible to prepare the crisp topping in advance?
Yes! You can mix the crumbly topping ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to one day. Let it come to room temperature before sprinkling over the apple and pumpkin layer and baking.
How do I make the topping extra crunchy?
Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the topping mixture, or sprinkle a little raw sugar on top before baking for an extra caramelized crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Spice Apple Crisp Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm autumn hug. It’s simple to make, brimming with classic flavors, and perfect for any occasion where comfort food is welcomed. I encourage you to try it soon — it might just become your new favorite fall dessert to share and savor year after year.
Print
Pumpkin Spice Apple Crisp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Spice Apple Crisp is a comforting fall dessert featuring tender sliced apples layered with creamy pumpkin puree and warm spices, topped with a buttery oat crumble baked to golden perfection. It’s perfect for cozy evenings and pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Fruit Layer
- 3 large apples, sliced
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Crisp Topping
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crisp.
- Prepare Fruit Layer: In a baking dish, arrange the sliced apples evenly and spread the pumpkin puree over them. Sprinkle the pumpkin spice and cinnamon evenly across the top to infuse warm flavors into the fruit mixture.
- Make Crisp Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, softened butter, and a pinch of salt. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until the mixture becomes crumbly and well combined.
- Assemble Crisp: Evenly spread the oat crumble topping over the pumpkin and apple layers in the baking dish, ensuring full coverage.
- Bake the Crisp: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of sweet and tart flavor.
- The topping can be enhanced with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
- Adjust the amount of pumpkin spice according to your preference for a milder or stronger spice flavor.
