Pumpkin Crunch Recipe: Easy Fall Dessert with Crispy Pecan Topping

Autumn always seems brighter when a tray of pumpkin desserts cools on the counter. Pumpkin Crunch stands out because it delivers both the smooth comfort of custard and the satisfying snap of a cinnamon streusel topping. The balance of creamy pumpkin filling and a buttery cake crust makes it a favorite at family gatherings. You’ll discover how to create a dessert that feels festive yet simple enough for a weeknight treat.

The recipe comes together in layers, each one offering a different texture. A soft crust supports a spiced pumpkin filling, followed by a creamy topping and a golden, crisp streusel. You’ll learn how to make each part work together so that your final slice feels both structured and inviting. Confidence comes quickly once you see how easily these steps fall into place.

Ingredients That Create Texture and Flavor

The crust begins with a box of yellow cake mix blended with butter and an egg. This forms a dough that presses neatly into the pan and bakes into a firm base. I’ve found that yellow cake mix adds a subtle sweetness that pairs well with pumpkin, though spice cake mix creates a warmer flavor if you prefer.

The filling uses pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, and sugar mixed with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. The result is smooth, fragrant, and rich. I like canned pumpkin for its consistent texture, though fresh puree works if drained well.

The creamy layer blends softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla, lightened with whipped topping. It adds a cool contrast to the warm spices. The streusel topping comes from the reserved cake mix mixed with sugar, cinnamon, and cubes of cold butter for that golden crunch.

In my notes, I compared using spice cake mix versus yellow cake mix. The spice version creates a stronger, almost pie-like depth, while yellow cake mix highlights the filling with a lighter background. For gatherings where the pumpkin flavor should shine, I lean toward yellow.

Preparing the Layers with Care

The crust presses into the bottom of a 9×13 pan. A soft dough forms quickly and sets the stage for the pumpkin filling. As it bakes, the kitchen fills with the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg. The filling mixes smoothly, and once poured, it creates an even pumpkin layer that firms gently in the oven.

After baking, the dessert cools before you add the cream cheese layer. This step matters because spreading the topping on a warm base causes it to melt and lose its structure. The creaminess balances the spices, creating a smooth middle before the final topping.

The streusel sprinkles evenly across the creamy layer. Cold butter cut into the cake mix creates pockets that bake into crisp bits of cinnamon sweetness. A final bake turns the topping golden, and the dessert cools before slicing.

Serving Pumpkin Crunch for Gatherings

Pumpkin Crunch cuts neatly once chilled for at least an hour. A sharp knife glides through the creamy layer and crust, making clean squares for serving. I like to add a small dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on each slice. This presentation works well for holidays or casual evenings when you want something seasonal.

If you enjoy trying other seasonal ideas, you may like this Pumpkin Spice Cake, which carries the same warm flavors in a soft crumb. For a simpler option, you might enjoy Pumpkin Coffee Cake, perfect for a morning treat with coffee.

Storing and Making Ahead

Pumpkin Crunch keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Cover the pan tightly to keep the creamy layer fresh. I sometimes prepare the crust and filling the day before, letting them cool overnight, and then add the creamy layer and topping the next morning. This makes serving at gatherings easier.

If you prefer a dessert that can be prepared entirely ahead, you might enjoy this Pumpkin Cheesecake, which holds its texture beautifully when chilled. Another good choice is this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe, which also highlights pumpkin flavor in an easy format.

Closing Thoughts

Pumpkin Crunch offers a mix of textures that always feels satisfying. I’ve made it for both casual family dinners and larger gatherings, and it never fails to please. The balance of spiced pumpkin, creamy topping, and golden streusel keeps each slice interesting from first bite to last.

Save this recipe to your Pinterest boards so you can find it again when fall baking calls. Share in the comments how your Pumpkin Crunch turned out, or ask any questions you may have. I enjoy hearing your experiences and tips.