Pumpkin Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy recipe that brings the warmth of Fall into your kitchen, then this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is just what you need! It’s fluffy, moist, and bursting with that delightful pumpkin spice flavor we all crave as the leaves start to change. I love how versatile this cake is; it works perfectly for a busy weekday breakfast or as a sweet treat during family gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become your go-to autumn dessert!

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is not only delicious but also simple to make. You can whip it up in under an hour, and the best part? Your whole house will smell like a cozy café while it bakes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can shine with this recipe!
• Perfect for sharing: This cake serves nine delightful squares, making it ideal for brunches or cozy gatherings with friends.
• Versatile enjoyment: Enjoy it warm for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or topped with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for dessert.
• Deliciously comforting: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a rich flavor that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it the night before and enjoy fresh slices in the morning—just reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

I love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! You probably have most of them in your pantry already. Let’s gather everything to bake this delightful 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 the great things about this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is its flexibility! 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 added crunch.
• Include chocolate chips: For a sweeter twist, fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the batter!
• Change up spices: If you love experimenting, feel free to use different spices like nutmeg or ginger along with the pumpkin pie spice.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs without compromising flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350° F. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the moment it goes in!

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Spray a 9×9 square baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This makes removing the cake easy and prevents sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Mixing these dry ingredients together ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin, brown sugar, oil, maple syrup, and milk until well combined. These wet ingredients will add moisture and sweetness to our cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our coffee cake to remain light and fluffy.

Step 6: Spread into Baking Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly using a spatula. This helps ensure that every slice has that perfect texture!

Step 7: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix together your crumb topping ingredients. Add in cold butter and press with a fork until you achieve a crumbly consistency. This topping adds an irresistible crunch!

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter. It’ll create that beautiful golden crust as it bakes!

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. If it’s still wet after this time, pop it back in for another five minutes.

And there you have it! A scrumptious Pumpkin Coffee Cake ready to enjoy at any time of day.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Creating the perfect pumpkin coffee cake is simple with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cake turns out light, fluffy, and full of delicious flavor!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your cake. They pack a punch compared to pre-ground spices and can elevate your overall baking experience.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined is crucial for achieving a light texture. Overmixing can lead to a denser coffee cake, so be gentle when stirring!

• Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary in temperature, so it’s wise to check your coffee cake at the minimum baking time. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached when it’s ready.

• Cool before serving: Allowing your coffee cake to cool slightly before serving helps enhance its flavors and makes it easier to cut into squares. Plus, it’s a great way to keep those crumbly toppings intact!

• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness. This keeps your cake moist and delightful!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

This pumpkin coffee cake is not only delicious but also versatile! Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and visual appeal without overwhelming the pumpkin spice flavor.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and richness that complements the soft texture of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or berries provides a bright contrast to the warm flavors of the coffee cake.
• Yogurt with honey: Creamy yogurt drizzled with honey adds a touch of tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
• Herbal tea: Pair your slice with a warm cup of herbal tea such as chamomile or peppermint for a cozy experience.
• Coffee or chai latte: Enhance your morning routine by serving this coffee cake alongside your favorite brewed coffee or spiced chai latte—ideal for those crisp fall mornings!

Enjoy every bite of this scrumptious pumpkin coffee cake! It’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making your mornings simpler and more delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the coffee cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the coffee cake into individual portions to make thawing easier.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Seal tightly, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For a quick reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Pumpkin Coffee Cake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) to maintain moisture.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

In addition to pumpkin pie spice, try adding chopped nuts or dried fruits. A drizzle of maple glaze after baking also elevates its flavor!

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake special?

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is filled with warm spices and topped with a delicious crumb topping that brings out the best of fall flavors. It’s perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree your fresh pumpkin until smooth before measuring out one cup for the recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this wonderful Pumpkin Coffee Cake as much as I do! It’s not just a treat; it’s a warm hug on a plate—perfect any time of day. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it solo with your morning coffee, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your kitchen. Happy baking!