Pumpkin Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat to brighten your mornings, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is just the ticket. It’s the kind of recipe that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, bringing back memories of crisp autumn days and family gatherings. The blend of pumpkin and warm spices creates a deliciously inviting aroma that fills your kitchen and makes everyone feel at home.

This cake is perfect for busy weekday mornings when you need something quick yet satisfying or as a delightful addition to a weekend brunch with friends. Everyone will love the fluffy texture and that irresistible brown sugar cinnamon streusel on top! Trust me; this will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With just a few straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves pumpkin spice! This cake is sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this coffee cake fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week for an easy morning treat.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and maple syrup creates a mouthwatering experience each bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. It’s all about bringing out that fabulous fall flavor!

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 parts about this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is how flexible it is! You can easily tailor it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch!
• Incorporate chocolate chips: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delicious twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Top with cream cheese frosting: For an indulgent dessert option, drizzle with cream cheese icing after baking.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350° F. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the moment you pop it in!

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 your cake from 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 well combined. This step helps distribute all those lovely spices throughout the cake so every bite is flavorful.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin, brown sugar, oil, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and sweetness to our coffee cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Carefully pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix. Stir gently until everything is just combined—overmixing can lead to a denser cake than we want!

Step 6: Pour Batter into Baking Pan

Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. This ensures that every slice has that perfect fluffiness.

Step 7: Make Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, combine all crumb topping ingredients. Add cold butter and press with a fork until crumbly. This delicious topping adds texture and sweetness!

Step 8: Sprinkle Topping Over Batter

Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over your batter. Don’t be shy; we want plenty of that delicious crunch on top!

Step 9: Bake Your Cake

Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. If needed, bake for an additional five minutes if it’s still too wet.

And there you have it! A delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake ready to share (or keep all to yourself!). Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Every little detail counts when it comes to baking, and these tips will ensure your Pumpkin Coffee Cake turns out perfectly delicious!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices have a more intense flavor than pre-ground ones. This will enhance the pumpkin spice profile in your cake, making each bite a delightful experience.

• Don’t overmix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense coffee cake instead of the light, fluffy texture we all crave.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your cake a few minutes early. A toothpick should come out mostly clean; if it’s too wet, give it another 5 minutes.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allow the coffee cake to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure and makes for cleaner slices.

• Store properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them to extend freshness. This keeps your coffee cake moist and tasty!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a cozy breakfast at home or hosting friends for brunch. Here are some delightful ideas on how to present this scrumptious treat!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to your coffee cake.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of non-dairy whipped cream on the side provides a creamy complement that pairs beautifully with the spiced flavors.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the rich and spiced coffee cake while adding freshness to your plate.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for a balanced side dish that offers creaminess and crunch alongside your sweet treat.
• Chai tea: The warm spices in chai tea perfectly match the pumpkin flavor, creating an inviting beverage option that enhances your coffee cake experience.
• Maple syrup drizzle: Serve with a small pitcher of warm maple syrup on the side. Guests can drizzle it over their slice for an extra layer of sweetness.

With these serving suggestions, your Pumpkin Coffee Cake is sure to shine at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the flavors of fall throughout the week. Whether you want to enjoy it as breakfast, a snack, or a delightful dessert, proper storage will keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to cover it to prevent it from drying out.
• For the best taste and texture, allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze your Pumpkin Coffee Cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date!
• When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Reheating

• For a warm slice, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cake on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds. Enjoy warm!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe that might help you out!

Can I make Pumpkin Coffee Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for making ahead. You can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge overnight before baking in the morning.

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake so special?

The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a cozy flavor profile that’s perfect for fall. The brown sugar cinnamon streusel topping adds a delicious crunch that complements the cake’s softness beautifully.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook and puree your fresh pumpkin until it’s smooth before using it in place of canned pumpkin.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Coffee Cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay), your cake is ready. If it’s still wet, give it another 5 minutes in the oven.

What can I serve with Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea! You could also serve it with a dollop of whipped coconut cream or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake recipe is truly special—it captures the essence of autumn and brings warmth to any table. I hope you find joy in making this cake as much as I have enjoyed sharing it with you! Whether it’s for breakfast with family or an afternoon treat with friends, I’m confident you’ll love every bite. Enjoy your baking adventure!