Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake

Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly combines the cozy flavors of fall with the classic comfort of cake. This easy-to-make dessert features a tender pumpkin cake base, spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, and topped with a buttery crumb mixture. The addition of a sweet icing drizzle elevates this cake to a special indulgence, making it an ideal choice for autumn gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea at home. Its moist texture and rich flavors create a warm and inviting experience for the taste buds, reminding us of crisp autumn mornings and joyful family gatherings.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at baking for the first time, this Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake is sure to impress everyone it’s served to. The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a comforting flavor profile that resonates with the season, while the crumb topping adds crunch and sweetness. Once baked, this cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack. With its easy-to-follow instructions, you will find that making this cake is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy the wonderful aromas and flavors in no time.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake

List of ingredients with measurements

• For the crumb topping:
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold)
• For the cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup milk
• For the icing:
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin spice coffee creamer
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you need to make substitutions for any ingredients, here are a few options:

• You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier version, but be aware that this may affect the texture.
• Maple syrup can be replaced with honey or agave syrup if you don’t have any on hand.
• For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use non-dairy milk for the cake.
• If you don’t have pumpkin spice coffee creamer, you can create a simple icing using just confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.

How to Make Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake

Step 1: Prepare the oven and baking pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9-inch square or springform baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan and ensure it comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Make the crumb topping

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for your crumb topping. Once combined, cut in the cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or fork. Continue until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs or small clumps. These clumps are what will bake up crunchy and delicious on top of your cake. Set this bowl aside for now.

Step 3: Prepare the cake batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients for the cake: the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Mix them well so that the spices are evenly distributed. In another bowl, mix together the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, brown sugar, oil, maple syrup, and milk. You want to ensure the sugars are dissolved. Once mixed, pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter will be thick.

Step 4: Combine and bake

Once your batter is ready, spoon it into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Then, take your crumb topping and sprinkle it over the top of the cake batter. Lightly press it down so it adheres to the batter below. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Begin checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready to be removed from the oven.

Step 5: Prepare the icing

While the cake is cooling, you can prepare the icing. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, pumpkin spice coffee creamer, and vanilla extract. If the icing is too thick, add a little bit of milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency that is easy to drizzle.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

After the cake has cooled slightly, you can drizzle the icing over the top. You can serve the cake warm or allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Enjoy every bite of your delicious Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake!

How to Serve Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake

Best ways to serve Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake

Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake is versatile and can be served in various ways. It is delightful on its own or paired with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. For an extra touch, you might want to serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added crunch. This cake also makes an excellent pairing for a hot cup of coffee or tea, complementing the spices beautifully.

Serving suggestions or pairings

For a festive brunch, consider serving the cake alongside other autumn favorites, such as apple cider doughnuts or a simple fruit salad. This cake can also be a great addition to a holiday dessert table, where it can stand out among other sweets. If you are hosting a cozy gathering, presenting it with a warm beverage like spiced apple cider or hot chocolate creates a comforting experience for your guests.

How to Store Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake

Proper storage methods

To maintain the freshness of your Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure to keep the container in a cool and dry place, as excess moisture can lead to sogginess. If you’re storing the cake for longer periods, place it in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three days.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you want to enjoy the cake warm, simply slice a piece and reheat it in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. If you plan to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake

Common mistakes to avoid

A couple of common mistakes to watch out for include overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one. Additionally, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately, as too much flour could make the cake dry. Another tip is to use fresh spices; outdated spices can lose their potency, affecting the flavor of your cake.

Helpful tips for better results

For optimal flavor, consider letting your pumpkin puree sit at room temperature for a few minutes before use; this can enhance the flavor. Also, always use cold butter when making the crumb topping, as this helps create that desirable crumbly texture. For added depth in flavor, you can toast spices lightly on a skillet before incorporating them into your dry ingredients.

Variation of Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

While the classic recipe is mouth-watering as it is, there are several fun variations you can try. For instance, you can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries to the batter for a different flavor profile. If you want a cream cheese swirl, prepare a filling with cream cheese, sugar, and an egg, pouring it between layers of batter. You could even create a layered version with alternating colors of pumpkin batter and vanilla cake batter.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

If you need a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can use coconut oil instead of canola oil if you prefer a different fat source. For vegan options, replace the egg used in the cream cheese swirl with a flax egg or applesauce for moisture.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your cake doesn’t seem to rise properly, make sure your baking powder and baking soda aren’t expired as they are crucial for the cake’s rise. Additionally, check to see if you overmixed the batter, which can cause the cake to become dense.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake can be made ahead of time, and it tends to taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just remember to store it properly.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

You can often make substitutions based on what’s available. For example, if you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can try applesauce or mashed bananas. Instead of brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses for color and flavor.

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