Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of spices and pumpkin, then this Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe is just what you need! This cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion—be it a busy weeknight, a family gathering, or even just a quiet afternoon at home. I love how this recipe combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with a crunchy streusel topping. It’s not just delicious; it’s a hug in food form!

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake so special is its tender crumb and rich flavor, making it an instant favorite among friends and family. Plus, it’s easy to whip up! You’ll want to keep this recipe close by because everyone will be asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Spiced: The combination of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice creates an irresistible flavor that warms the soul.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can have this cake ready in no time!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet pumpkin goodness topped with crunchy streusel.
• Make-Ahead Option: Can be baked in advance and enjoyed throughout the week—just reheat for a warm treat!
• Versatile Delight: Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert—this cake fits any time of day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s take a look!

For the Streusel

• 3 cups all purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup butter (2 sticks, melted)

For the Cake

• 2 & 1/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1 & 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick, softened but still cool)
• (15-oz) can pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling, divided)
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (I use light-flavor olive oil)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Icing

• 1/4 cup butter (half stick, very soft)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (use less if all you have is table salt)
• 3 tablespoons milk (more to taste)
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Variations

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with some tasty variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: A handful of chocolate chips can add a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Use Different Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth.
• Top with Cream Cheese Icing: Want something richer? Swap out the drizzle for cream cheese icing instead!

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Greasing your 9×13 inch cake pan with nonstick spray or butter ensures that your cake comes out easily once baked.

Step 2: Make the Streusel

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, kosher salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Melt your butter in a medium bowl and pour it into the dry ingredients. Mix until it resembles wet sand with chunky bits—this texture adds great crunch! Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

In another large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Cut your cooled butter into chunks and mix it into the dry ingredients until combined.

Step 4: Add Pumpkin Goodness

Add half of your can of pumpkin puree to the flour mixture along with some elbow grease from an electric mixer or paddle attachment. This step is key as it helps create that lovely moist base.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In the same bowl you used for melting butter, whisk together the remaining pumpkin puree with eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until fully blended. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your cake batter.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

Gradually add your egg mixture into the flour mixture in three additions. Beat well after each addition until everything is light and fluffy—that perfect batter consistency we’re aiming for!

Step 7: Layer It Up!

Spoon two cups of batter into your prepared pan as a base layer. Sprinkle one cup of streusel over this layer before adding another two cups of batter on top. Repeat these layers until all are included—ending with streusel on top!

Step 8: Bake Your Cake

Bake at 350 degrees F for about 35 minutes. Remove from oven briefly to sprinkle any remaining streusel on top before popping back into bake for another 10-15 minutes.

Step 9: Cool Down & Icing Time!

Once baked perfectly—no wet batter on a toothpick—you’ll let it cool before icing! Whisk together your icing ingredients until smooth; drizzle over slices when ready to serve.

This cake truly shines best when served warm. Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Creating the perfect pumpkin coffee cake is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks! Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out deliciously every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, butter, and pumpkin puree to room temperature before mixing helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and a fluffier cake!
• Don’t skip the chilling step for streusel: Chilling the streusel mixture before baking not only helps it retain its shape but also creates delightful crunchy bits on top of your cake that contrast beautifully with the soft texture.
• Check for doneness carefully: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested bake time. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
• Cover while cooling: If you want to keep your cake moist, covering it loosely with foil as it cools will prevent it from drying out and create a tender crumb.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon or add other spices like nutmeg or ginger to personalize the flavor profile of your pumpkin coffee cake!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Serving your pumpkin coffee cake can be as delightful as baking it! Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dessert that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling some nuts on top adds a lovely crunch and enhances the cozy fall flavors.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free alternative, topping each slice with whipped coconut cream adds richness and complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar over the icing gives an extra hint of sweetness and visual appeal!

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like apples and pears balances the richness of the cake and offers a refreshing contrast.
• Hot beverages: Pairing your coffee cake with warm apple cider or herbal tea makes for a comforting experience, perfect for chilly days.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layering yogurt with granola and berries creates a delightful side dish that adds creaminess and brightness alongside your sweet treat.
• Cheese platter: Offering slices of mild cheese such as brie or gouda alongside the cake provides savory notes that complement the sweetness.

Now that you’ve got all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to gather your ingredients and make this delicious pumpkin coffee cake! Enjoy every bite!