Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with a crumbly streusel topping. Perfect for fall gatherings, brunches, or cozy evenings at home, this cake offers a soft texture and irresistible aroma. Whether served warm with a drizzle of icing or enjoyed at room temperature, this cake is bound to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious cake.
• Flavorful and Aromatic: The blend of pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice delivers a comforting taste that feels like a warm hug.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert after dinner; it’s perfect for any time of day.
• Streusel Topping: The crunchy streusel adds texture and sweetness that complements the moistness of the cake beautifully.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 16 servings, this recipe is ideal for parties or family gatherings. Everyone will want a slice!

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe, gather the necessary tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Stand mixer or electric beaters
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch cake pan: This size is perfect for baking the entire cake evenly while creating enough surface area for the delicious streusel topping.
• Mixing bowls: Using multiple bowls helps keep the ingredients organized during preparation and mixing stages.
• Stand mixer or electric beaters: These tools make it easier to incorporate ingredients thoroughly without excessive effort.

Ingredients

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)
• 1 (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

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 inch cake pan with nonstick spray or rub it with butter.

Step 2: Make the Streusel

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together 3 cups flour, 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice.
2. Melt 1 cup butter in a medium bowl in the microwave.
3. Pour melted butter into the larger bowl with dry ingredients and stir until you achieve a sandy consistency with some big chunks. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

In another large bowl or stand mixer:
1. Combine 2 & 1/4 cups 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, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
2. Chop 1/2 cup softened butter into chunks and add it to this mixture.

Step 4: Add Pumpkin Puree

Open your can of pumpkin puree:
– Scoop out about half into the flour mixture.
– Use the paddle attachment or electric beaters to blend until combined without overmixing.

Step 5: Create Egg Mixture

In the same bowl used for melting butter:
– Add remaining pumpkin puree along with eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
– Whisk well until blended.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add egg mixture to flour mixture in three additions:
– Beat for about twenty seconds after each addition until batter is light and fluffy.

Step 7: Layer Ingredients in Pan

Spread half of batter into prepared cake pan:
– Sprinkle with one cup of streusel evenly over batter.
– Repeat layering with remaining batter followed by streusel on top.

Step 8: Bake

Bake at 350 degrees F for approximately thirty-five minutes:
– Quickly sprinkle remaining streusel on top after removing from oven.
– Return to oven for an additional ten to fifteen minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Ice

Let cool on wire rack for at least fifteen minutes before cutting:
– While cooling make icing by beating together butter with vanilla extract, salt, milk, and powdered sugar until smooth.
– Drizzle icing over cooled cake before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe! This delightful treat keeps well covered on the counter for two to three days—if it lasts that long!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Pumpkin coffee cake is a delightful dessert perfect for any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top for a creamy texture that complements the rich flavors of the cake.

Pair with Coffee

• Serve slices alongside a hot cup of coffee. The warmth of the drink brings out the spices in the cake, making for a cozy treat.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Place a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top. The ice cream melts slightly and creates a delicious contrast with the warm cake.

Garnish with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the top or on individual servings for added crunch and flavor.

Drizzle Extra Icing

• For those who love sweetness, drizzle extra icing over each slice right before serving to enhance the flavor profile.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

To ensure your pumpkin coffee cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and butter to sit out before mixing for better incorporation and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense cake instead of light and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure you’re baking at the correct temperature for even cooking.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean without wet batter attached.
• Cool Properly: Let the cake cool completely before icing to prevent melting and ensure neat slices.
• Store Correctly: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to extend freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Pairing your pumpkin coffee cake with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that contrasts nicely with the cake.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, like sharp cheddar or creamy brie, provides a savory counterpoint to sweet flavors.
4. Roasted Nuts: Offer spiced or salted nuts as a crunchy snack that pairs well with coffee and enhances flavor depth.
5. Herbal Tea: Brewed herbal teas, such as chamomile or mint, create a soothing beverage option that complements dessert.
6. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These add a touch of elegance while providing contrasting flavors that pair beautifully with pumpkin notes.
7. Mini Muffins: Serve assorted mini muffins alongside as an additional baked treat that guests can enjoy with their coffee.
8. Savory Scones: Cheese or herb scones offer a delightful savory element next to sweet pumpkin coffee cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the final product. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong type of pumpkin: Always choose pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. This ensures the right flavor and consistency in your cake.
• Skipping the streusel: The streusel adds a delightful crunch and flavor. Don’t skip it; make sure you follow the instructions for preparing this topping.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping it directly from the bag. This prevents using too much flour, which can dry out your coffee cake.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F before baking. An unheated oven can result in uneven baking.
• Cutting into the cake too soon: Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps maintain its structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cooled Pumpkin Coffee Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each slice for 10-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about the Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

You can use fresh pumpkin, but make sure it is cooked and pureed to achieve the same texture as canned puree.

How do I know when my coffee cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and it doesn’t wobble when shaken.

Can I customize this Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins for extra flavor and texture.

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake special?

Its moist texture combined with the crunchy streusel topping offers a delightful contrast that makes each bite enjoyable!

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe is perfect for any occasion, blending warm spices with a moist crumb. Feel free to customize it with your favorite additions like nuts or chocolate chips. Give it a try, and enjoy this comforting dessert with family and friends!