This Pumpkin Autumn Crunch Delight is a fun and joyful treat! With layers of creamy pumpkin filling, crunchy nuts, and a yummy topping, it’s like fall on a plate.
It’s so easy to make, even a pumpkin spice newbie can handle it! I love serving this at family gatherings. It always gets smiles and maybe a bite or two missing! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned rolled oats: These oats add great texture. If you’re in a hurry, quick oats can work too, but they may not be as crunchy.
Pecans: They provide a nice crunch. You can swap them with walnuts or even pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option that’s still tasty.
Canned pumpkin puree: Look for 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. If you have fresh pumpkin, you can roast and puree it as well. Both options taste quite good!
Whipping cream: Heavy cream is perfect for whipping. If you’re looking for a lighter option, using whipped topping can work too.
How Do I Get the Crunch Just Right?
Achieving the perfect crunch starts with toasting the oat mixture. This adds flavor and texture, making it more enjoyable. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix your dry ingredients first, then add melted butter until it’s crumbly.
- Spread this mixture evenly on a lined baking sheet, and don’t forget to stir halfway through baking!
- Let it cool completely before layering, as this ensures it stays crunchy in the dessert.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have that irresistible crunch everyone loves! Enjoy making this treat warm or cold, it’s simply delicious.
How to Make Pumpkin Autumn Crunch Delight
Ingredients:
For the Crunchy Topping:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Creamy Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
For the Whipped Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Optional: extra ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for topping
Total Time Needed:
This delicious dessert takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10-12 minutes to bake. You’ll want to chill it for at least 2 hours (or overnight) before serving. So, all in all, set aside about 2 hours and 30 minutes for preparation and chilling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crunchy Topping:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chopped pecans, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir everything until the mixture looks crumbly and is well combined.
2. Bake the Topping:
Spread the oat mixture evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until it’s golden brown and smells amazing—make sure to stir halfway through to avoid burning. When it’s done, take it out and let it cool completely.
3. Whip Up the Creamy Filling:
While your topping cools, grab a large bowl and beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until it’s smooth and creamy. Then add the canned pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, mixing until everything is combined well.
4. Make the Whipped Cream:
In another bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream with the granulated sugar until it forms stiff peaks. Gently fold this whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture until everything is blended together nicely.
5. Assemble the Dessert:
Now it’s time to layer! Spoon half of your crunchy oat mixture into a clear 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish or a trifle bowl. Then spread the creamy pumpkin filling evenly over the oats. Finally, add the rest of the crunchy topping on top to finish it off.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the dessert and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours (or overnight if you can wait!). This lets all the flavors meld beautifully together. When you’re ready to serve, scoop out portions that have both the creamy filling and the crunchy topping. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top!
Enjoy this delightful Pumpkin Autumn Crunch Delight with a warm latte or a cozy spiced cider. It’s the perfect treat to celebrate the flavors of fall!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pecans on hand, walnuts work beautifully as a substitute, or you can omit the nuts entirely for a nut-free version. Just keep in mind that the texture will change slightly without the crunch of the nuts.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this Pumpkin Autumn Crunch Delight dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and use coconut whipped cream or non-dairy whipped topping instead of heavy cream. Look for dairy-free butter for the crunchy topping as well!
Can I Prepare This Dessert in Advance?
Yes! This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time. You can assemble it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. Just be aware that the crunchy topping may soften slightly but will still taste great!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep the topping crunchy, you might want to store it separately and add it back on just before serving.
