Pumpkin Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful way to usher in the flavors of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is truly a gem. It’s moist, tender, and bursting with warm pumpkin spice goodness that will wrap you in cozy vibes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a sweet treat or family gatherings where everyone loves to indulge, this cake has become a cherished favorite in my home.

Every bite of this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is like a hug from your favorite sweater. The crumbly brown sugar cinnamon streusel on top adds just the right amount of sweetness and crunch. You’ll find yourself reaching for a second slice before you even finish the first!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, even novice bakers can whip this up in no time.
• Family-Friendly: This cake satisfies both kids and adults alike, making it a hit at breakfast or as an after-school snack.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a chilly morning or a cozy gathering, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time for busy mornings or surprise guests—this coffee cake keeps well!
• Flavorful and Festive: The blend of spices will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that screams autumn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake. These are pantry staples that will help create that warm and inviting flavor we all love!

For the Crumb Topping

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 4 tablespoons cold butter (1/4 cup)

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup canned pumpkin
• 1/2 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup maple syrup

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your taste preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: If you have a sweet tooth, chocolate chips can add a delightful twist!
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with almond milk or oat milk to suit dietary needs.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350° F. This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Spray a 9×9 square baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until combined well. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin, brown sugar, oil, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. This mixture is what gives your coffee cake its moisture and rich flavor!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a denser cake.

Step 6: Prepare Your Batter for Baking

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. This creates an even bake across your coffee cake.

Step 7: Make Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the crumb topping ingredients. Add in the cold butter and press with a fork until you achieve a crumbly consistency. This topping adds texture and sweetness!

Step 8: Top Your Batter

Sprinkle that lovely crumb topping generously over your batter. This is where much of the deliciousness comes from!

Step 9: Bake It Up!

Pop it in the oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. If it’s still wet after that time, give it another five minutes—patience pays off here!

And there you have it! A warm slice of Pumpkin Coffee Cake that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Making the perfect pumpkin coffee cake is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your pumpkin, oil, and milk to room temperature helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother batter and a fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix: Gently combine your wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which we want to avoid for that light, fluffy coffee cake.

• Check doneness with a toothpick: Remember that the toothpick test is key! Insert it into the center of the cake; it should come out mostly clean with just a few crumbs attached. This ensures your cake is perfectly baked without being dry.

• Let it cool before cutting: Allowing the coffee cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing will help maintain its structure, making it easier to serve and keeping those crumbly bits intact.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to your spice mix for an extra flavor boost. Tailoring the spices can give your coffee cake a unique twist!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

This pumpkin coffee cake is not only perfect for breakfast but also makes a delightful treat at any time of day. Here are some ideas for presenting this warm, spiced delight.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a lovely touch of sweetness and elegance.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, top your slice with whipped coconut cream for added richness and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries complements the warm spices in the coffee cake beautifully.
• Yogurt parfait: A serving of yogurt layered with granola and fresh fruit provides a creamy contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake.
• Herbal tea: Pairing your slice with a soothing cup of herbal tea enhances the cozy experience, making it perfect for chilly mornings.
• Coffee or chai latte: A warm beverage like freshly brewed coffee or chai latte pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors, elevating your enjoyment of this delicious treat.

With these ideas in hand, you’ll be ready to make your pumpkin coffee cake not just tasty but also visually appealing and satisfying for any occasion! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it all week long. Here’s how to keep your delicious coffee cake fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the coffee cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place the leftover cake in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before warming.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

If you’re wondering about some specifics regarding this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are answers to some common questions.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned in this Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh pumpkin, be sure to cook and puree it first. Make sure it’s well-drained so that your batter doesn’t become too wet.

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Coffee Cake stays moist?

To keep your Pumpkin Coffee Cake moist, avoid overmixing the batter as this can lead to a denser texture. Additionally, adding ingredients like oil or maple syrup helps retain moisture during baking.

Can I substitute other spices for the pumpkin pie spice in my Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Yes! If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, you can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This will still give your coffee cake that warm fall flavor!

What can I serve with my Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea. You could also serve it with a dollop of whipped coconut cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake as much as I do! Its cozy flavors and delightful crumb topping make it a special treat for breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to bring warmth to your kitchen. Happy baking!