Pumpkin Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to brighten your mornings, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is just the thing! Imagine a warm slice of cake with rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices that perfectly capture the essence of Fall. This recipe has become a family favorite in my home, enjoyed on busy weekdays or during weekend gatherings. The delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen is enough to bring everyone together, making it perfect for any occasion.

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With a few simple ingredients and just one bowl (plus a baking dish), you can whip up this scrumptious cake in no time. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or simply treating yourself to a sweet snack, this recipe will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the sweet pumpkin spice flavor, making it a great addition to any meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week—just pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up!
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack; it fits any time of day wonderfully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Most of them are pantry staples you probably already have on hand. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this lovely Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

For the Cake

• 1/4 cup all purpose flour
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 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

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)

Variations

One of the best things about this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Include Chocolate Chips: Mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet twist that everyone will love.
• Swap the Sweetener: Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different natural sweetness.
• Try Other Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger to customize your spice blend!

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the moment you put 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 step is crucial; it keeps your coffee cake from sticking and helps with easy removal once baked.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the two cups of all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until well combined. This helps distribute all those lovely flavors evenly throughout your cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin, brown sugar, canola oil, maple syrup, and milk. Mixing these wet ingredients separately ensures that they blend smoothly before joining forces with the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—remember not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a denser coffee cake rather than the light and fluffy texture we want.

Step 6: Transfer Batter to Baking Dish

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. This will help ensure even baking and give you those beautiful edges.

Step 7: Make Your Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the crumb topping ingredients: flour, light brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter. Use a fork to press everything together until you achieve that crumbly consistency. The topping adds texture and an extra layer of flavor!

Step 8: Sprinkle Topping Over Batter

Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over your batter in the baking pan. This is where your coffee cake gets that irresistible crunch!

Step 9: Bake It Up!

Bake your Pumpkin Coffee Cake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. If it’s still wet after checking at 35 minutes, give it another five minutes in the oven. Just keep an eye on it!

Now you’re all set! Let your delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake cool slightly before slicing into generous pieces—a true treat for anyone who gets to enjoy it!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Baking is an adventure, and with a few helpful tips, you can make your Pumpkin Coffee Cake even more delightful!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice can enhance the flavor profile immensely. The vibrant aromas will fill your kitchen and make your coffee cake irresistible!

• Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined helps to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which isn’t what we want in our coffee cake.

• Check for doneness wisely: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on the baking time. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean; if it’s too wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

• Cool before serving: Allowing your coffee cake to cool for at least 10 minutes after baking lets the flavors settle and makes it easier to cut into perfect squares.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to include nuts or chocolate chips in the batter for added texture and flavor. Walnuts or pecans pair wonderfully with pumpkin!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Serving your Pumpkin Coffee Cake is all about creating a cozy atmosphere that invites everyone to enjoy every crumb. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the cake’s rich flavors.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream is a luscious addition that complements the spiced notes of the coffee cake beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the coffee cake and adds a burst of color to your plate.

• Yogurt parfait: A simple yogurt parfait layered with granola and berries creates a delicious contrast in textures while keeping things wholesome.

• Coffee or chai tea: Pairing your coffee cake with a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea enhances those autumnal flavors and makes for a comforting morning or afternoon treat.

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

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors without the fuss during busy mornings. Here’s how to keep it fresh for your enjoyment!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, label with the date so you can enjoy it at its freshest!

Reheating

• To reheat a slice, place it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• If reheating the entire 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 about making Pumpkin Coffee Cake:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree your fresh pumpkin until smooth. Measure out one cup as per the recipe.

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake special?

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is special because it’s packed with warm spices and topped with a delightful brown sugar cinnamon streusel that elevates every bite!

Can I substitute other oils in this Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Yes! You can use melted coconut oil or even applesauce for a lighter version if you prefer.

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

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. It should come out mostly clean; if it has wet batter on it, give it another 5 minutes in the oven.

What can I serve with Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. You might also enjoy it alongside whipped cream or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake! With its warm spices and crumbly topping, it’s sure to become a favorite during cozy mornings or gatherings. Enjoy each slice, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any tweaks you’ve made along the way. Happy baking!