Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe + 5 Simple Tips

Bring the taste of fall to your mornings with this easy and delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake. It’s loaded with the warm flavors of pumpkin spice and topped with a brown sugar cinnamon streusel crumb topping that will make every bite irresistible. Whether enjoyed as a cozy breakfast with a hot cup of coffee or as an afternoon snack paired with tea, this pumpkin coffee cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the season. Not only is it perfect for fall gatherings, but it also makes a great addition to your Thanksgiving breakfast or dessert menu.

Why This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a Must-Try

This pumpkin coffee cake is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginner bakers. The combination of soft pumpkin flavor, warm spices, and a crunchy crumb topping makes it a comforting and satisfying treat. Perfectly moist, this cake holds up beautifully and keeps well, making it an ideal make-ahead option. Plus, it’s a great way to use up that extra can of pumpkin puree you have lying around!

Ingredients

To create this delectable pumpkin coffee cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Flour: Forms the base of the cake and provides structure.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and the essential pumpkin flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and enhances the cake’s rich flavor.
• Oil: Helps the cake remain moist and tender.
• Pure Maple Syrup: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Milk: Adds richness to the cake batter.
• Ground Cinnamon: A key spice for that cozy, fall-inspired taste.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that gives the cake its distinct autumn flavor.
• Baking Powder & Salt: Essential for leavening and balance of flavors.

For the Crumb Topping:

• Flour: Forms the foundation of the topping.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
• Cinnamon: Deepens the flavor profile of the crumb topping.
• Butter: When cold, it creates a crumbly, crunchy topping.
• Optional Chopped Nuts: Adds texture and crunch, with pecans or walnuts being the most popular choice.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• If you’re looking to make this pumpkin coffee cake gluten-free, consider using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• For a dairy-free version, almond milk or oat milk can easily substitute regular milk.
• Replace the oil with applesauce for a lower-calorie option.
• Swap maple syrup for honey if you’re looking for a different sweetener.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 square baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, oil, maple syrup, and milk until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can make the cake dense.
5. Prepare the Crumb Topping
   In a small bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
6. Assemble the Cake
   Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter.
7. Bake
   Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. If necessary, bake an additional 5 minutes.

Tips & Tricks

• For a different texture, bake the batter in a bundt pan and increase the cooking time to 40-45 minutes.
• If you prefer a more decadent treat, drizzle a simple glaze over the cake after baking. Combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for a sweet finishing touch.
• Be sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out with just a few crumbs, the cake is done.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This pumpkin coffee cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Serve it alongside your morning coffee or a cup of hot apple cider for the ultimate fall experience. For a savory twist, try adding a dollop of cream cheese frosting or a spoonful of whipped cream on top.

You can also customize this cake with add-ins like raisins, cranberries, or chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier variation, consider using Greek yogurt in place of the oil for added protein.

Storing and Freezing Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Store any leftover pumpkin coffee cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.

Whether you’re baking for the family or preparing for a fall gathering, this pumpkin coffee cake is sure to become a favorite. Its soft, spiced layers and crunchy topping make it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is the perfect fall treat that combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spice with a deliciously crunchy streusel topping. Whether you’re looking for a simple breakfast or a delightful dessert, this cake is versatile and sure to impress. Its moist texture and warm, spiced aroma will make it a favorite for any gathering or simply as a comforting snack at home. Easy to make and customizable, this recipe is one you’ll want to return to again and again as pumpkin season rolls around.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

More Relevant Recipes

• Banana Muffins with Crumb Topping: These delicious banana muffins are moist and flavorful, topped with a sweet crumbly topping, making them a great companion for your morning coffee, just like Pumpkin Coffee Cake.
• Coffee Cake Banana Bread: A perfect fusion of two favorites, coffee cake and banana bread, with a crumb topping that offers a delightful texture, making it a wonderful choice for fall breakfasts or snacks.
• Cinnamon Roll Cake: A cinnamon-laced cake with a soft, buttery texture and swirls of cinnamon sugar, offering a similar cozy, sweet vibe to Pumpkin Coffee Cake with a comforting cinnamon flavor.

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