Pumpkin Pecan Crisp Recipe
Introduction
When the autumn leaves start to fall and the air gets a bit crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a delicious fall dessert baking in the oven. This Pumpkin Pecan Crisp recipe by Chrysa captures the very essence of autumn with its rich flavors of pumpkin, vanilla, and cinnamon. The combination of these warm spices with a buttery yellow cake mix and the nutty crunch of chopped pecans makes for an irresistible dessert. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this Pumpkin Pecan Crisp is sure to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of coziness to your home.
Ingredients and Their Importance
Pumpkin
The star ingredient of this recipe is the pumpkin, which provides a smooth and creamy texture to the crisp. Pumpkin is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients such as vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. Using canned pumpkin is a convenient option that ensures a consistent and rich flavor.
Evaporated Milk
Evaporated milk adds a creamy consistency to the pumpkin mixture without making it too watery. It also contributes to the overall richness of the dessert. If you prefer, you can substitute it with regular milk or a non-dairy alternative, but the texture may vary slightly.
Sugar
Sugar is essential in balancing the flavors of the pumpkin and spices. It sweetens the mixture just right, ensuring that each bite is perfectly delicious.
Vanilla Extract
A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile of the dessert by adding a subtle, aromatic sweetness that complements the pumpkin and spices.
Ground Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a quintessential fall spice that brings warmth and depth to the dessert. Its slightly sweet and spicy flavor pairs perfectly with the pumpkin, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.
Yellow Cake Mix
Using a yellow cake mix is a clever shortcut that saves time without compromising on flavor. The cake mix creates a fluffy, moist base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pumpkin filling and crunchy pecan topping.
Chopped Pecans
Pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the crisp. They not only enhance the texture but also provide healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making the dessert a bit more nutritious.
Butter
Melted butter is drizzled over the top of the pecans and cake mix, ensuring a rich and golden-brown crust. The butter seeps into the layers, adding moisture and a luscious buttery taste to the entire dessert.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the crisp from sticking to the pan.
Mixing the Pumpkin Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 1 can (15 ounces) of pumpkin
- 1 cup of evaporated milk
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The resulting mixture should be smooth and fragrant, with the sweet and spicy aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon filling the air.
Assembling the Crisp
Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Next, take a package of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the pumpkin mixture. It’s important to distribute the cake mix as uniformly as possible to ensure an even bake.
Adding the Topping
Sprinkle 1 cup of chopped pecans over the cake mix. Finally, drizzle 1 cup of melted butter over the top. The butter will help to create a crispy, golden-brown crust as it bakes.
Baking
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be bubbly and slightly caramelized, indicating that the dessert is ready.
Serving
Allow the Pumpkin Pecan Crisp to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers to set, making it easier to serve. This dessert is best enjoyed warm, and it’s even more delightful when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cool creaminess of the ice cream or whipped cream perfectly complements the warm, spiced pumpkin and the crunchy pecan topping.
Tips and Variations
- Spice it Up: If you love spices, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to the pumpkin mixture for an extra depth of flavor.
- Nut Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of pecans or have a nut allergy, you can substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a different texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free yellow cake mix.
- Lower Sugar: For a lower sugar option, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the pumpkin mixture or use a sugar substitute that measures like sugar.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Pumpkin Pecan Crisp (based on 12 servings) contains approximately 463 calories. This dessert is rich and indulgent, making it perfect for special occasions. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: 463
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 39g
- Protein: 5g
While this dessert is on the richer side, it’s a wonderful treat to enjoy in moderation during the fall season. The combination of pumpkin, spices, and pecans makes it a heartwarming and satisfying dessert that brings the flavors of autumn to your table.