If you’re dreaming of a cozy morning treat or a delightful dessert that feels like a warm hug, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with autumn spices, moist pumpkin goodness, and an irresistible crumbly streusel topping, this cake strikes the perfect balance between sweet and comforting. It’s an unbeatable combo that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and satisfies every craving whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or an after-dinner indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this cake are simple staples that you probably already have on hand. Each one plays an important role in creating the flavor, texture, and stunning fall-inspired color that makes this cake so memorable.
- Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, subtle earthiness, and that gorgeous orange hue.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone that holds the cake’s soft crumb together perfectly.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter without overpowering the delicate pumpkin flavor.
- Brown sugar: Brings a hint of molasses warmth to both the cake and streusel topping.
- Baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully for a light and tender texture.
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Classic fall spices that evoke that cozy pumpkin spice feeling.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together while adding richness.
- Unsalted butter: Adds moistness and buttery goodness when melted into the batter and topping.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the warm flavors with its sweet aroma.
How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan. This sets you up perfectly so the batter won’t stick and the cake bakes evenly, giving you that golden crust we all love.
Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. This streusel will add that magical crunch and sweetness on top, creating a contrast in texture that makes every bite exciting.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl. Doing this step first ensures all the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the cake for consistent flavor and rise.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended. The smooth pumpkin mixture adds moisture and depth, giving the cake its tender crumb and classic pumpkin taste.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Gently fold your dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and fluffy. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle half the streusel topping evenly on top, then spread the remaining batter over it, and finally scatter the rest of the streusel to finish it off.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cake for 35 to 40 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell as it bakes is heavenly, and once it’s done, the crumbly topping will be golden and crisp, an inviting signal that this cake is ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar can elevate the look and add a touch of sweetness without overpowering the cake’s warm flavors. For extra flair, a drizzle of vanilla glaze blends perfectly with the streusel topping’s crunch.
Side Dishes
Serve your pumpkin coffee cake alongside a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or chai tea to enhance its cozy vibe. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side turns this cake into a luscious dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, you can cut the cake into mini squares and serve on a decorative platter with autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks as décor. Try layering slices with mascarpone cheese and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an elegant pumpkin tiramisu-inspired treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cake airtight at room temperature for up to two days to maintain its moistness and fresh streusel texture. If storing longer, refrigerate but allow it to warm up slightly before serving to bring back that tender crumb.
Freezing
This pumpkin coffee cake freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter for a few hours for best results.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in the microwave or oven to revive the cake’s softness and bring back the delicious aroma. A quick 15-20 seconds in the microwave or 10 minutes at 300°F in an oven works wonders.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly here and is a convenient option that maintains consistent moisture and flavor for your cake.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum to keep the texture light and airy.
Can I add nuts to the streusel topping?
Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and deepen the flavor profile, making your streusel topping even more irresistible.
How long will this cake stay fresh?
Stored properly, your pumpkin coffee cake will stay fresh and delicious for about 2 to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week if refrigerated.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can make some adjustments such as using flax eggs and plant-based butter substitutes. The texture might vary slightly but it will still be delightful.
Final Thoughts
Giving this Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe a try truly feels like inviting a bit of autumn magic into your kitchen any time of year. The balance of soft pumpkin cake and crumbly sweet streusel topping makes each bite a little celebration. Whether you’re sipping coffee on a cozy morning or offering guests a comforting dessert, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic you come back to again and again.
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Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a moist, spiced treat perfect for autumn mornings or cozy gatherings. Featuring a rich pumpkin base combined with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s topped with a buttery, crumbly streusel that adds the perfect crunch. Baked to golden perfection, this cake is easy to make and sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Streusel Topping
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine the streusel topping ingredients—brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and melted butter—mixing until the texture is crumbly. Set aside for later use.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well incorporated.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Form Batter: In another bowl, blend the pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Then add the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the streusel topping, creating layered textures.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs for better batter consistency and rise.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter; fold ingredients until just combined for a tender crumb.
- The streusel topping adds a delicious contrast in texture – don’t skip it!
- Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerated up to a week.
