Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

If you adore the cozy flavors of fall and are looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is exactly what you need. It perfectly blends the rich, spicy pumpkin taste with a tender crumb and an irresistible streusel topping that adds just the right amount of crunch and sweetness. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or serving it at a holiday brunch, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is bound to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each element plays a crucial role, from the pumpkin puree providing moistness and seasonal flavor to the warming spices that make each bite comforting and aromatic.

• All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cake, giving it structure and the perfect crumb.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Help the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors just a bit.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger: Classic autumn spices that add warmth and depth.
• Granulated and brown sugars: Provide sweetness and a subtle molasses note from the brown sugar.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture for a tender crumb.
• Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that delivers moist texture and that unmistakable fall flavor.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to a fluffy texture.
• Vanilla extract: Lifts the flavors with a sweet, aromatic touch.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Add delightful crunch and a nutty note if you love that extra texture.
• Streusel topping ingredients: Flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter combine for a crumbly, sweet topping that’s the perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan so that your pumpkin coffee cake comes out easily after baking. This simple step ensures a smooth release and keeps the cake intact.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This aromatic spice blend infused into the flour is the heart of the flavor, so take a moment to inhale that heavenly scent before moving on.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is important because it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake texture.

Step 4: Add Pumpkin Puree

Mix in the pumpkin puree thoroughly. This is your cake’s moist and flavorful core, so be sure it’s evenly combined for the best results.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and well emulsified. Then stir in the vanilla extract to brighten up those warm, earthy pumpkin notes.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined — overmixing can lead to a denser cake, and we want this Pumpkin Coffee Cake to be tender and soft.

Step 7: Fold in Nuts (Optional)

If you enjoy a little crunch, gently fold in chopped pecans or walnuts now. They add a lovely texture contrast and a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin and spice.

Step 8: Prepare the Streusel Topping

For the streusel topping, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Pour in melted butter and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. This topping will bake into a crispy, sweet crust that makes the cake truly unforgettable.

Step 9: Assemble and Bake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly so the cake bakes uniformly. Sprinkle the streusel topping generously across the surface and slide the pan into your preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let your pumpkin coffee cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to finish cooling. This rest time helps everything set perfectly before you slice into your delicious creation.

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty, delicate touch to your Pumpkin Coffee Cake, highlighting the rich brown streusel. Alternatively, a drizzle of cream cheese glaze or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate it to an indulgent, café-style treat.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea, enhancing those comforting fall flavors. For brunch, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a yogurt parfait to balance out the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking of impressing your guests? Serve the Pumpkin Coffee Cake in charming individual portions topped with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or a swirl of maple butter. Cut into rustic squares and nestle pieces in pretty baskets for a cozy fall gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your pumpkin coffee cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the moist crumb without drying out the cake or losing the delicate streusel topping.

Freezing

If you want to save a slice for later, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen pumpkin coffee cake stays delicious for up to 2 months and is a perfect treat to thaw on a chilly morning.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake at room temperature or warm it gently in the microwave or oven for a few seconds. This brings back that fresh-baked warmth and revives the cake’s soft texture and buttery topping beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is a convenient option that maintains the moistness and flavor your cake needs.

What type of nuts work best with this cake?

Pecans and walnuts are classic choices because they add the right crunch and complement the spices. Feel free to omit nuts if you prefer a nut-free dessert.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but be sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is perfectly baked.

Can I add a cream cheese frosting instead of streusel topping?

While the streusel topping is traditional and gives delightful texture, a cream cheese frosting is a delicious alternative that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake truly captures the essence of cozy, comforting fall baking. It’s easy to make yet irresistibly flavorful, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Once you try it, I have a feeling it will become your go-to pumpkin dessert every season. So, preheat that oven and dive into the warm, spiced goodness—you’re in for a treat!

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