Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping

Delicious pumpkin coffee cake with crumb topping served on a plate

Eating a slice of Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket on a chilly autumn day. Have you ever craved a dessert that’s not too sweet but still delivers on flavor? This delightful cake combines the rich, warm spice of pumpkin with a crunchy crumb topping, creating a beautifully balanced treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or an afternoon tea. This recipe isn’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s a celebration of fall and comfort food that you can easily whip up in your kitchen. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this scrumptious Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping. You can also find some substitutions if you’re looking to modify it to fit your dietary needs.

  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

For the crumb topping:

  • 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup of cold butter, cubed
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

Optional: For an added flair, consider incorporating walnuts or pecans into the topping or garnishing the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

Timing

Cooking this delectable cake is a breeze, making it perfect for a last-minute gathering or breakfast treat.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Total Time: About 50-55 minutes

One insightful tip to save time is to measure and mix your dry ingredients while the oven preheats. This way, you can move quickly from prep to baking!

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This combination will set the foundation for the cake’s spice profile.

Step 3: In another bowl, mix the sugar, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir these ingredients together until they’re smooth and well-combined. The pumpkin will add moisture and richness to the cake.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix; you want to retain a light and fluffy texture.

Step 5: Now, grab another bowl for the crumb topping. Mix together the flour, brown sugar, cold butter, and cinnamon. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs. Using cold butter is key here for that perfect crumbly topping.

Step 6: Pour the pumpkin batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the cake batter.

Step 7: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.

Step 8: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help the flavors meld and make for easier slicing.

Healthier Alternatives if Needed

If you’re looking to lighten up this recipe or accommodate dietary preferences, there are several swaps you can make without sacrificing flavor:

  • Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Lower Sugar: Reduce the sugar content or use a natural sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
  • Dairy-Free: Replace the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil and omit butter in the crumb topping. Use a dairy-free margarine if necessary.
  • Vegan: Swap out the eggs for flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg) and use dairy-free butter.

Serving Suggestions

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping can be served warm or at room temperature. For an elegant touch, plate it with a drizzle of icing made from powdered sugar and milk, or serve it with a side of whipped cream. It pairs wonderfully with:

  • A hot cup of coffee or tea
  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side
  • A fresh fruit salad for a balance of flavors

Dressing up the serving plate with autumn leaves or small pumpkins adds a lovely seasonal decor that makes your dessert the star of the table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pumpkin coffee cake, even a small misstep can affect your results. Here are common pitfalls along with their solutions:

  • Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined.
  • Using Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead of Puree: Stick with pure pumpkin to avoid sweetness issues.
  • Not Greasing the Pan: Always grease your baking dish; otherwise, you’ll risk the cake sticking.
  • Underbaking: Ensure you’re baking it long enough. If your toothpick comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes.

Storage Tips

This cake can easily become a staple in your home with the right storage practices:

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
  • Reheating: If you prefer it warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

Print
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Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping


  • Author: mark-bennett
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

A delightful pumpkin coffee cake with a crunchy crumb topping, perfect for pairing with coffee or tea on a chilly day.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • For the crumb topping:
  • 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup of cold butter, cubed
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix the sugar, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
  5. Mix together the crumb topping ingredients in another bowl until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  6. Pour the pumpkin batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the cake batter.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Notes

For an elegant touch, consider garnishing with icing or whipped cream. You can substitute walnuts or pecans for added flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

FAQs

What can I use instead of canned pumpkin?

You can use homemade pumpkin puree or butternut squash puree as a substitute.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can bake it a day in advance. Store it appropriately to maintain freshness.

How can I make the cake more moist?

Make sure not to overbake it and consider adding a little apple sauce to your batter for extra moisture.

Is it necessary to use all the spices listed?

While the combination of spices gives great flavor, you can adjust or omit any spices based on your preference.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze them for longer storage.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. With its warm spices, moist pumpkin, and crunchy topping, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion. Don’t wait—try this recipe today, and discover why it’s a must-have for fall. Share it with friends and family or enjoy it as a cozy indulgence with your favorite beverage. Check out our other delightful recipes to expand your autumn baking repertoire.