Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ve found it! This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is my go-to recipe whenever the leaves start to change and the air gets crisp. There’s something truly special about the blend of warm spices paired with the moistness of pumpkin puree. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, bringing everyone together with its irresistible aroma wafting through the house.

Every bite of this cake is like a warm hug, making it a favorite among friends and family alike. Whether you enjoy it as an afternoon snack with coffee or as a sweet treat at dessert, this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake will surely become one of your cherished recipes too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to prepare: With straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients, baking this cake is a breeze.
• Family-friendly delight: Kids and adults alike love the flavors of pumpkin and spice—it’s a hit for everyone!
• Make-ahead option: You can bake this cake ahead of time and enjoy it fresh out of the oven later in the week.
• Perfectly spiced: Each slice is packed with delicious fall spices that create a warm, comforting flavor profile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Gather these items, and let’s get started on creating your new favorite dessert!

For the Cake:

• 2 cups flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Pinch cloves
• 1 1/4 cups pumpkin puree
• ½ cup butter (room temperature)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 cup milk

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed (1 stick)
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Variations

One of the best things about this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add some nuts: For extra crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter or crumb topping.
• Incorporate chocolate chips: If you’re feeling indulgent, mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
• Swap the pumpkin: Try using sweet potato puree or butternut squash puree for a different twist on flavor.
• Spice it up: Experiment with additional spices like cardamom or allspice to create your own unique blend.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing a 9 x 13-inch baking dish ensures that your cake comes out beautifully without sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, salt, and spices. This step is crucial because combining these dry ingredients first helps ensure even distribution throughout your cake.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In an electric mixer bowl, combine room temperature butter and pumpkin puree. Beat these together until they are well mixed—don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth! Next, add sugar and continue mixing until fully combined before adding eggs and vanilla extract. This mixture creates a rich base for our cake.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients in three parts while alternating with milk. Mixing on low speed until no white remains will give you a lovely batter full of flavor and moisture.

Step 5: Make the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, combine all crumb topping ingredients. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work in cold butter until small crumbs form. These crunchy bits add texture and sweetness on top!

Step 6: Layer It Up and Bake

Pour half of the pumpkin batter into your prepared dish. Sprinkle half of those delicious crumbs on top before layering in the rest of the batter. Finish by topping with remaining crumbs. Bake for about 45-55 minutes—your kitchen will smell heavenly! Check doneness with a toothpick; when it comes out clean, it’s ready to enjoy!

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake will surely warm hearts as much as it warms homes!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Baking is a delightful journey, and with these pro tips, your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake will come out perfectly every time!

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend more smoothly, creating a lighter and fluffier cake.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense crumb texture instead of the light, airy cake we all love.

• Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use fresh ground spices rather than pre-ground ones. Fresh spices enhance the warm fall flavors of your cake and make it irresistible.

• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake towards the end of the baking time. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached—not wet batter!

• Cool Before Serving: Allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake can be as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy texture that complements the warm spices beautifully.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances the sweetness while reinforcing those cozy fall vibes.

Side Dishes

• Hot Apple Cider: The warmth of spiced apple cider pairs wonderfully with this crumb cake, adding to its comforting appeal.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast in temperature and richness.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: Lighten up your dessert table with a refreshing fruit salad made from seasonal fruits like apples and pears for added texture and brightness.
• Coffee or Chai Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or chai tea complements the spices in the crumb cake, making it perfect for an afternoon treat or brunch gathering.

Enjoy your baking adventure, and may your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake bring warmth and joy to your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat throughout the week. Its rich flavors only get better with time, making it a great choice for busy days when you want something sweet on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, slice the cake before freezing, so you can enjoy individual pieces as needed.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 15-20 second intervals until warmed through.
• For a crispy topping, reheat slices in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you may have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or use a commercial egg replacer according to package instructions.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits into the batter. Spices like allspice or cardamom can also elevate the taste!

What makes this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake so special?

This recipe combines moist pumpkin cake with a crunchy crumb topping and warm spices, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works wonderfully and adds an extra touch of freshness to your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake. Just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate that captures the essence of fall. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on your own with a cup of tea or coffee. Dive into this delightful recipe, and don’t forget to savor every bite!