Pumpkin Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful way to embrace the flavors of Fall, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is just what you need. Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin spice wafting through your kitchen. This recipe is not just a treat for breakfast; it’s perfect for family gatherings or even an afternoon snack with friends. Each bite of this moist, flavorful coffee cake will make you feel like you’re in a cozy café, sipping on your favorite fall beverage.

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake has become a cherished recipe in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try it! It’s easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday mornings. Trust me, once you bake this cake, it will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: The steps are straightforward and require minimal effort, so you can enjoy delicious coffee cake without stress.
• Perfectly spiced: With pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon, each slice bursts with warm autumn flavors that everyone will love.
• Great for sharing: This recipe serves nine, making it perfect for brunches or when guests drop by unexpectedly.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the batter in advance and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve!
• Versatile enjoyment: Enjoy this cake as a breakfast treat, a dessert after dinner, or even as a midday snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for this Pumpkin Coffee Cake. You’ll find that most of these items are pantry staples that you may already have on hand!

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 the recipe is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Incorporate chocolate chips: For those who love chocolate, adding semi-sweet chocolate chips will create a delightful contrast with the pumpkin spice.
• Mix in fruit: Diced apples or cranberries can add a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from start to finish.

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 essential; it prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk them together until well mixed. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, mix together the canned pumpkin, brown sugar, oil, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. This mixture brings moisture and sweetness to our cake!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Gently stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a dense coffee cake instead of a light one.

Step 6: Pour Batter into Baking Dish

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. This ensures that every part of your cake bakes uniformly.

Step 7: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix together all crumb topping ingredients. Add in cold butter and press down with a fork until you achieve a crumbly texture. This topping adds a sweet crunch that perfectly complements the soft cake below.

Step 8: Sprinkle Topping Over Batter

Generously sprinkle your crumb topping over the batter in the pan. Don’t be shy! The more crumb topping, the better!

Step 9: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. If it’s still wet after that time, give it another five minutes—patience is key!

And there you have it! A simple yet scrumptious Pumpkin Coffee Cake ready for any occasion! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Making the perfect pumpkin coffee cake is a delightful journey, and a few handy tips can make all the difference!

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rising. Stale ingredients can lead to a denser cake, so check those expiration dates!

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients just until they’re mixed. Overmixing can make the cake tough instead of light and fluffy.

• Chill the butter: For the crumb topping, use cold butter to achieve that perfect crumbly texture. It helps create a nice contrast between the moist cake and crunchy topping.

• Adjust baking time: Every oven is different! Start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.

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

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Serving pumpkin coffee cake can turn an ordinary breakfast or snack into something special. Here are some creative ideas to present this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to each slice.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream for a deliciously smooth topping.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits complements the warm spices of the cake while adding refreshing flavors.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a balanced side that provides protein and texture contrast to the sweet cake.
• Herbal tea: Serve your coffee cake with a warm cup of herbal tea like chai or cinnamon-infused blends, enhancing those cozy fall flavors.
• Scrambled eggs: For a hearty breakfast option, pair with fluffy scrambled eggs for extra protein, perfect for starting your day right.

Enjoy every bite of your pumpkin coffee cake, surrounded by these delightful accompaniments!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat whenever you crave it. Here are some tips on how to store, freeze, and reheat your cake so that it stays delicious!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate it for extra freshness, where it can last up to a week.
• Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it away.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight or leave at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

• For a warm slice, simply microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can reheat slices in the oven at 350° F for about 10 minutes.
• Enjoy with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra cozy touch!

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions people have!

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

Absolutely! If you’re using fresh pumpkin, make sure it’s well-pureed and cooked until soft. This will help achieve the moist texture that makes Pumpkin Coffee Cake irresistible.

What can I substitute for milk in Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

You can easily replace milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. This will ensure your coffee cake remains dairy-free while still being delightful!

How long does Pumpkin Coffee Cake last?

When stored properly, this delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week if refrigerated. It also freezes beautifully!

Is this Pumpkin Coffee Cake suitable for breakfast?

Yes! This Pumpkin Coffee Cake makes a wonderful breakfast option with its cozy spices and sweet flavor. Pair it with your morning coffee or tea for a perfect start to your day!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Coffee Cake as much as I do! Its warm spices and delightful crumb topping are sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries it. Whether it’s served as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack with friends, this recipe is truly special. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures with me!