Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Bring the taste of Fall to your mornings with this easy Pumpkin Coffee Cake recipe. It’s loaded with pumpkin spice flavor and topped with an amazing brown sugar cinnamon streusel crumb topping. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack, this cake offers a delightful way to embrace the season. Its moist texture and rich flavors make it a standout choice for gatherings or quiet Sundays at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and streusel adds an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm from the oven as breakfast, or serve it alongside coffee for an afternoon treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy day at home, this cake fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Pumpkin Coffee Cake effortlessly, you’ll need some kitchen essentials. Having the right tools on hand will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9 square baking dish
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Whisk
• Fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9 square baking dish: This size is perfect for evenly baking your Pumpkin Coffee Cake, ensuring it cooks thoroughly.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls helps keep wet and dry ingredients organized for better mixing results.
• Whisk: A whisk allows you to mix ingredients effectively, ensuring a light and fluffy cake batter.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×9 square baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the following:
2 cups all purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

Make sure these dry ingredients are combined well.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, mix:
1 cup canned pumpkin
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup maple syrup

Stir these ingredients together until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep your coffee cake light and fluffy.

Step 6: Spread Batter in Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly across the pan to ensure even baking.

Step 7: Make Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, combine:
1/4 cup all purpose flour
1/4 cup light brown sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon

Add in cold butter (4 tablespoons) and press with a fork until crumbly.

Step 8: Add Topping

Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter in the pan.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. If needed, bake for an additional 5 minutes if the toothpick is still wet.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Serving your Pumpkin Coffee Cake can elevate the experience and make it even more delightful. Here are some creative ideas for serving this delicious treat.

Pair with a Hot Beverage

• Coffee – A classic match, enjoy your coffee cake with a fresh cup of coffee for a perfect morning boost.
• Tea – Try pairing it with a spiced chai or herbal tea for a warm, soothing flavor.

Add Toppings

• Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy texture and sweetness that complements the cake.
• Powdered Sugar – Dusting powdered sugar over the top gives it an elegant finish and extra sweetness.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – The rich creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the spices in the cake.
• Pumpkin Ice Cream – For pumpkin lovers, this adds an extra layer of seasonal flavor.

Enjoy as Dessert or Breakfast

• Breakfast Delight – Serve warm slices alongside scrambled eggs or yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
• Dessert Indulgence – Perfect as an evening treat, serve it with coffee or dessert wine after dinner.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Perfecting your Pumpkin Coffee Cake ensures every bite is delicious. Here are some tips to help you achieve that.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh spices and baking powder ensure the best flavor and rise in your cake.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of light and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature – An oven thermometer can help ensure that your oven is at the correct temperature for baking.
• Cool Before Serving – Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing; this helps maintain its shape and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Coffee Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that complements the cake’s flavors.
3. Cinnamon Apples – Sautéed apples with cinnamon provide a warm, comforting addition that matches perfectly with pumpkin spice.
4. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses offers savory contrast to sweet coffee cake; try sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
5. Nut Mix – A bowl of spiced nuts adds crunch and pairs well with both coffee and cake.
6. Smoothie Bowl – A smoothie topped with granola and seeds is a light option that works well for breakfast or brunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Pumpkin Coffee Cake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense coffee cake. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the streusel topping: The brown sugar cinnamon streusel adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip it; it enhances the overall experience of your cake.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements are key to perfect results. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can ruin your bake. Always preheat and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Using expired baking powder: Freshness is crucial for rise and texture. Check the expiration date before using baking powder.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pumpkin Coffee Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place the cake on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices at medium power for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can substitute by mixing equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger as alternatives.

How should I serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

It’s delightful served warm with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also top it with whipped cream or icing for added sweetness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Try it today and enjoy the comforting taste of fall!