Pumpkin Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a comforting treat that captures the essence of fall, look no further than this delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake. It’s a recipe that brings warmth and joy to your mornings, making it perfect for busy weekdays or cozy family gatherings. The pumpkin coffee cake is not just an ordinary cake; it’s infused with warm spices and crowned with a crunchy brown sugar cinnamon streusel that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

This beloved recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and I love how it fills the house with that sweet, spicy aroma while baking. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or served as an afternoon snack, this pumpkin coffee cake is sure to brighten anyone’s day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious cake without breaking a sweat.
• Perfectly Spiced: The combination of pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon gives this coffee cake its signature flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this treat! It’s always a hit at family gatherings or brunch with friends.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake this cake ahead of time, making it ideal for busy mornings or unexpected guests.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it as breakfast, dessert, or even a snack – it’s suitable for any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand. Each one plays a crucial role in making your pumpkin coffee cake deliciously moist and flavorful!

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 Coffee 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 mix things up based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Incorporate chocolate chips: If you’re feeling indulgent, fold in some chocolate chips to make it extra special!
• Try different spices: Experiment with ginger or nutmeg to give your cake unique flavor notes.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350° F. This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×9 square baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This step is essential so that your delicious cake doesn’t stick!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Mixing these dry ingredients together helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin, brown sugar, oil, maple syrup, and milk until well combined. These wet ingredients add moisture and sweetness to your coffee cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – we want our coffee cake to be light and fluffy!

Step 6: Pour Batter into Pan

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. This step is important because it ensures even baking.

Step 7: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the crumb topping ingredients. Use a fork to cut in the cold butter until you achieve a crumbly texture. This topping adds that irresistible crunch!

Step 8: Add Topping

Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter. This layer creates a beautiful contrast in texture when baked.

Step 9: Bake Your Cake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. If needed, give it an extra 5 minutes if it’s still wet – we want every piece to be perfectly baked!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this scrumptious Pumpkin Coffee Cake! Perfectly paired with your favorite beverage or enjoyed on its own, this recipe will soon become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake is all about attention to detail and a few insider tips that will help elevate your baking. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, milk, and pumpkin to room temperature helps them mix more easily, creating a smoother batter that results in a lighter texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the wet and dry ingredients together ensures that your cake remains fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense coffee cake, so just stir until combined!

• Check for doneness properly: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), it’s done! This prevents overbaking, keeping your cake moist and tender.

• Customize your spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preferences. Adding extra cinnamon or nutmeg can give it an even warmer flavor profile, making it truly unique to you!

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the coffee cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps set its structure. This makes slicing easier and keeps it from crumbling.

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Serving Pumpkin Coffee Cake can be as delightful as baking it! Here are some fun ideas to present this seasonal treat beautifully at your breakfast table or during afternoon tea.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.

• Whipped coconut cream: For those looking for a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream is an airy and delicious addition that complements the spiced pumpkin flavor perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and pomegranates adds freshness that balances out the richness of the coffee cake.

• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side dish that brings tanginess and crunch alongside your sweet coffee cake.

• Herbal tea: Pairing your Pumpkin Coffee Cake with a warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or chai, enhances its cozy flavors—perfect for chilly mornings or afternoons!

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Coffee Cake in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delicious flavors any day of the week! Whether you’re planning breakfast or a snack, here’s how to store and reheat this delightful treat.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cake in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week.

Freezing

• Ensure the cake is fully cooled.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Remove from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, ensure it’s cooked and pureed to match the consistency of canned pumpkin. This will still give your Pumpkin Coffee Cake that lovely flavor!

How do I make my Pumpkin Coffee Cake even more flavorful?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or even chocolate chips for a fun twist. Experimenting with spices can also elevate your Pumpkin Coffee Cake experience!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can! Just follow the freezing instructions above to enjoy this delicious cake later on.

What is the best way to serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Serve it warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top or alongside a cup of coffee or tea. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking and sharing this warm and inviting Pumpkin Coffee Cake with your loved ones! Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it truly special for any occasion. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists on this recipe. Happy baking!