Picture the warm aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this show-stopping dessert. The pumpkin crunch recipe is a delightful twist on the classic pumpkin pie, offering layers of velvety pumpkin filling and a buttery, nutty topping. This dessert has earned its place as a fall favorite, not just for its tantalizing taste but also for its simplicity. With every bite, you’ll experience the perfect harmony of creamy and crunchy textures, making it a must-have for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Unlike traditional pumpkin pie, this pumpkin crunch cake recipe uses a boxed cake mix for a topping that’s irresistibly crisp and golden. If you’ve been searching for a crowd-pleasing, low-effort dessert that screams autumn, this is it. Ready to impress your loved ones? Let’s dive in!
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Crunch
- Layer Carefully: Ensure the dry cake mix is evenly spread over the filling for a uniform topping.
- Butter Distribution: Drizzle the melted butter evenly to achieve a consistent crunch.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the oven—overbaking can dry out the filling and burn the topping.
- Add Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the pumpkin filling.
- Serve Fresh: This dessert is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven or after it has cooled slightly.
Pumpkin Crunch Recipe
12
servings15
minutes50
minutes290
kcalDelight your senses with this pumpkin crunch recipe, a comforting dessert that layers creamy spiced pumpkin filling with a buttery crunch topping. Perfect for fall gatherings, this easy-to-make pumpkin crunch cake recipe captures the essence of autumn in every bite.
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Ingredients
- For the Filling
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Topping
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional Garnish
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Whisk until smooth. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture. Spread chopped pecans on top. Drizzle melted butter over the entire surface, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dish to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream or ice cream.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
- If you prefer a crunchier topping, toast the pecans before sprinkling them on the cake.
- Pumpkin crunch tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
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Recipe Variants
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to cater to dietary restrictions.
- Vegan Pumpkin Crunch: Replace eggs with flax eggs, use almond milk instead of evaporated milk, and choose a dairy-free cake mix.
- Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a richer flavor.
- Spiced Nut Topping: Toss the pecans in cinnamon sugar before adding them to the topping.
Recipe Suggestion
If you love this pumpkin crunch recipe, you’ll also enjoy our Cajun Alfredo Sauce Recipe for a savory dish that balances creamy and spicy flavors. It’s perfect for fall dinners!
FAQ about Pumpkin Crunch Recipe
Yes! You can prepare and bake the pumpkin crunch up to a day in advance. Reheat it in the oven before serving for a freshly baked texture.
Make your own by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in equal parts.
Absolutely. Wrap the cooled dessert tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
While it’s possible, sweetened condensed milk will make the filling much sweeter, so reduce the sugar in the recipe.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of pumpkin crunch contains approximately:
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
Health Benefits of Pumpkin Crunch
- Rich in Fiber: The pumpkin filling offers dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
- Vitamin A Boost: Pumpkin is loaded with beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, supporting healthy vision and immunity.
- Energy-Packed: The combination of carbohydrates and healthy fats provides a quick energy boost.
- Mood Enhancer: The warm spices used in the recipe, like cinnamon and nutmeg, are known to have mood-lifting properties.
Pairing Suggestions
- Drinks: Pair this dessert with a spiced chai latte, pumpkin-spiced coffee, or a glass of warm apple cider.
- Ice Cream: Top with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uneven Butter Distribution: Leads to dry spots in the topping—drizzle it evenly!
- Skipping Cooling Time: Allow the dessert to cool slightly to help the layers set.
- Overmixing the Pumpkin Filling: Keep it smooth but don’t overwork it, as it might affect the texture.
Baking Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Fun Fact
Pumpkin crunch originated in the U.S. as a creative way to transform traditional pumpkin pie into a potluck-friendly dessert. The idea of using cake mix as a topping came from the 1980s trend of quick-fix recipes, making it a nostalgic treat for many!
The pumpkin crunch recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. The layers of creamy pumpkin and crunchy pecans create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, perfect for holiday feasts or casual gatherings. With minimal effort, you’ll create a dessert that everyone will rave about, leaving them asking for the recipe.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this pumpkin crunch cake recipe is forgiving and adaptable. With a few tweaks, you can cater to various dietary needs, ensuring no one misses out on the fun. If you like this cake, I suggest you also check the Pillsbury Apple Pie Recipe!
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