Pumpkin Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful way to brighten your mornings, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is just the ticket! Imagine waking up to the warm aromas of cinnamon and pumpkin spice filling your kitchen. This cake is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Whether you enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack, this recipe will surely become a cherished favorite.

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake truly special is its combination of flavors and textures. The moist cake is topped with a crumbly brown sugar streusel that adds the perfect crunch. Plus, if you have some canned pumpkin on hand, you’re halfway to making this delicious treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this cake in the oven before you know it!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a slice of pumpkin coffee cake—kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual breakfast or a festive gathering, this cake fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it the night before and enjoy it fresh in the morning for an easy breakfast option.
• Delicious flavor: The rich pumpkin spice flavor combined with the sweet streusel topping makes every bite heavenly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the joy of baking! Here’s what you need to create this scrumptious Pumpkin Coffee Cake:

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 Batter

• 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 my favorite aspects of this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Add chocolate chips: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the batter for a rich twist.
• Swap spices: Experiment with different spices like ginger or nutmeg to personalize the flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350° F. This step 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 will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until well combined. These dry ingredients are crucial for building structure and flavor in your coffee cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin, brown sugar, oil, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. These wet ingredients add moisture and richness that make your cake so delicious.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep your coffee cake light and fluffy!

Step 6: Spread Batter in Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. A smooth surface ensures even baking throughout.

Step 7: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the dry crumb topping ingredients before adding in cold butter. Use a fork to press everything together until you achieve a crumbly texture; this topping brings an irresistible crunch!

Step 8: Top Your Batter

Sprinkle that delicious crumb topping generously over the batter in the pan. This is where all that delightful sweetness comes from!

Step 9: Bake It Up!

Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. If needed, bake for another five minutes if it’s still gooey after testing.

With these simple steps, you’ll have yourself an amazing Pumpkin Coffee Cake ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Making this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you’ll ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your pumpkin, oil, and milk to room temperature before mixing helps them blend seamlessly into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Stirring just until combined prevents the cake from becoming dense. A light hand will yield that wonderful coffee cake crumb we all love!

• Check your baking powder’s freshness: Ensure your baking powder is within its expiration date for optimal rising. A quick test is to add a teaspoon to warm water; it should bubble vigorously if it’s still good.

• Customize the spices: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice to suit your taste. Experimenting with nutmeg or ginger can add a unique twist to your coffee cake.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the cake to cool for at least 10-15 minutes after baking makes slicing easier and helps maintain its shape.

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Presenting your Pumpkin Coffee Cake can enhance the overall experience, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy mornings at home. Here are some fun ideas on how to serve this scrumptious treat!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and makes for an appealing presentation.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some toasted pecans or walnuts on top provides a lovely crunch that complements the soft cake texture.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: Brighten up your plate with a vibrant fruit salad. The refreshing flavors balance the richness of the coffee cake beautifully.
• Greek yogurt: Serve a dollop of plain Greek yogurt alongside for creaminess and protein; it’s especially nice when drizzled with honey!
• Herbal tea or coffee: Pairing this coffee cake with a warm cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee enhances its comforting qualities, creating the perfect cozy moment.
• Maple syrup drizzle: For an added touch of sweetness, serve with extra maple syrup on the side for those who want an indulgent treat.

Now you’re all set to bake and enjoy this delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some tips on how to store it, freeze it, and reheat it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the coffee cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the cooled coffee cake into individual squares.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Remove the desired portion from the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
• To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual pieces for about 20-30 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake? Here are some common inquiries!

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

Yes! You can certainly use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure it’s well-cooked and pureed to achieve the right consistency.

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake so special?

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is special because it’s infused with warm spices and topped with a delightful brown sugar cinnamon streusel. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that capture the essence of fall!

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Coffee Cake is moist?

To keep your Pumpkin Coffee Cake moist, avoid overmixing the batter and ensure you measure your ingredients accurately. The combination of canned pumpkin and oil also helps maintain moisture.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking. This adds extra texture and flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this warm and cozy Pumpkin Coffee Cake as much as I do! It’s not just a treat; it’s a hug in cake form that brings back all those wonderful fall memories. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or just a snack with coffee, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!