Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe is just what you need! With its moist texture and delightful spices, it’s a favorite in my kitchen. I love how this cake warms up perfectly, making it an ideal treat for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying a slice with your afternoon coffee, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe even more special is its beautiful layers of spiced pumpkin cake and crunchy streusel topping. It’s easy to whip up, and the ingredients are simple enough to keep on hand. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice creates a warm and inviting taste that everyone will adore.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels—no fancy skills required!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this cake, making it a go-to for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake this cake ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen while making your busy schedule easier.
• Perfect with Coffee: This cake pairs beautifully with your morning brew or an afternoon tea, making any moment feel special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! This Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Streusel

• 3 cups all purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup butter (2 sticks, melted)

For the Cake Batter

• 2 & 1/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1 & 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick, softened but still cool)
• 1 (15-oz) can pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling, divided)
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or light-flavor olive oil)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Icing

• 1/4 cup butter (half stick, very soft)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (use less if using table salt)
• 3 tablespoons milk (more to taste)
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Variations

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some variations to keep things exciting:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Substitute Sugars: Try using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a rich twist on this classic recipe.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Greasing your 9×13 inch cake pan will ensure that your cake comes out easily after baking. You can use nonstick spray or rub it down with some butter.

Step 2: Make the Streusel

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, kosher salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Melt your butter in a medium bowl—this will be mixed into the dry ingredients next. The mixture should resemble wet sand; it’s okay if there’s some loose flour left behind. Set this aside in the fridge while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

Grab another large bowl or stand mixer to whisk together more flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon.

Step 4: Incorporate Butter

Chop your softened butter into small chunks and add them to the flour mixture. Mix until combined but don’t overdo it—this will help keep your cake fluffy!

Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree

Open up that can of pumpkin puree! Scoop about half into the mixing bowl with the flour and butter mixture. Blend everything together until it forms a ball—it’s okay if it’s not completely smooth!

Step 6: Mix Eggs & Remaining Pumpkin

In the bowl where you melted your butter earlier, add in all remaining pumpkin puree along with eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk it well so everything is combined nicely before adding it into your flour mixture.

Step 7: Combine Mixtures

Add your egg mixture into your flour mixture in three additions. Beat gently after each addition until everything looks light and fluffy.

Step 8: Layer Your Cake

Spread two cups of batter into your prepared cake pan. Sprinkle one cup of streusel over that layer before adding another two cups of batter on top followed by an additional cup of streusel.

Step 9: Finish Layering

Use the last bit of batter to cover everything up before spreading two more cups of streusel on top. Remember not to use all of it; save some for later if you have room in your fridge!

Step 10: Bake!

Bake at 350°F for about 35 minutes initially. Quickly sprinkle any leftover streusel on top once you remove it from the oven before getting it back in there! Bake for another 10-15 minutes until done.

Step 11: Cool Down

Let your beautiful cake cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing into it.

Step 12: Make Your Icing

To prepare icing while waiting for cooling time—beat softened butter until smooth then mix in vanilla extract, salt, milk, and powdered sugar until creamy!

Step 13: Drizzle Icing Over Cake

Once cooled slightly drizzle icing over either individual slices or across the whole cake depending on preference!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe with friends or family—they’re going to love it as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Making your pumpkin coffee cake turns into a delightful experience with just a few handy tips! Here are some pro suggestions to ensure your cake is a hit every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Allowing your butter, eggs, and even the pumpkin puree to warm up slightly can help them blend more smoothly into the batter, giving you a lighter, fluffier cake.
• Don’t skip the streusel – The crumbly topping adds not only texture but also an irresistible flavor contrast to the moist cake. A good streusel makes all the difference!
• Check your baking time – Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Start checking for doneness around 40 minutes to avoid overbaking and drying out the cake.
• Cool completely before icing – This prevents the icing from melting and sliding off before you get to enjoy your masterpiece. Patience is key for that perfect drizzle!
• Make it ahead of time – Pumpkin coffee cake tastes even better the next day! Baking it in advance allows flavors to meld beautifully and makes for a great grab-and-go breakfast option.

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Presenting your pumpkin coffee cake can be just as enjoyable as baking it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this delicious treat for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream – A dollop of light whipped cream on top adds a creamy richness that complements the spices perfectly.
• Chopped nuts – Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans for an added crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft texture of the cake.
• Cinnamon dusting – A light dusting of ground cinnamon right before serving enhances the autumn flavors and gives your dish an inviting look.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries balances the sweetness of the cake and adds color to your table.
• Yogurt parfaits – Serve with layers of yogurt and granola for a delightful contrast in textures; it’s also a healthy complement that guests will appreciate.
• Coffee or chai tea – A warm beverage like freshly brewed coffee or spiced chai tea pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors, making for a cozy dessert experience.
• Cheese platter – Offer a variety of cheeses alongside; creamy brie or tangy goat cheese can bring out unique flavors when enjoyed with each bite of cake.

Enjoy your pumpkin coffee cake straight from the oven or dressed up with these fun ideas – either way, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and store it for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your cake fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate the cake to extend its freshness, where it can last up to a week.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking slices to avoid sticking.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the date!
• To thaw, simply remove from the freezer and let sit at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.

Reheating

• For a warm slice, pop it in the microwave for 10-20 seconds.
• If reheating a whole cake, cover it loosely with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make this Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce as a binding agent. Use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg.

How long does this Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe stay fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature, the cake will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months.

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe special?

This recipe combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with a rich coffee cake texture, complemented by a delicious streusel topping that adds crunch and flavor.

Can I use different spices in this Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger alongside or instead of pumpkin pie spice for a unique twist on flavor.

Is there a way to make this Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe healthier?

You can reduce sugar by using less granulated sugar or substituting with alternatives like coconut sugar. Also, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this heartwarming Pumpkin Coffee Cake as much as I do! It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, brunches, or just a sweet treat during your day. The layered flavors and delightful texture will surely put smiles on everyone’s faces. Don’t hesitate to try out this lovely recipe; I’m sure you’ll love every bite!