Pumpkin Coffee Cake

By:

Sarah

Published:

September 15, 2025

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Combining the warm, inviting flavors of fall with a soft, tender crumb, Pumpkin Coffee Cake is the ultimate treat to savor with a comforting drink. Imagine a slice of this delicious cake, perfectly spiced and topped with an irresistible streusel, paired with your favorite coffee. You might find yourself making it more often than just on chilly autumn mornings! This recipe doesn’t just taste amazing; it’s also super simple to whip up. Even if you’re not a baking expert, you can follow the steps and create a masterpiece that looks and smells fantastic. So, let’s get comfortable in the kitchen and bring the deliciousness of Pumpkin Coffee Cake to life!

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to a delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake lies in its perfect blend of ingredients. First, the combination of pumpkin puree and the right spices creates a rich and moist texture that captures the essence of the season. It’s truly a hug in cake form! Moreover, this egg-free formulation maintains a tender crumb, making it accommodating for various dietary preferences while ensuring everyone can join in on the deliciousness. This gives it a unique charm without compromising on flavor. Another highlight is the thick streusel topping that not only adds an irresistible crunch but also elevates the cake’s presentation. Each bite is an interplay of soft cake with crispy topping, making it all the more enjoyable.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Coffee Cake

You’ll fall in love with this Pumpkin Coffee Cake for a multitude of reasons. First, it’s a perfect fall breakfast or snack, combining cozy seasonal flavors with everyday ingredients you likely have on hand. You won’t need to worry about complicated steps; this cake is easy to make, bringing warmth and comfort to your kitchen with minimal fuss. Plus, it’s great for sharing at gatherings or just enjoying alone while sipping on your coffee. Whatever the setting, this cake is sure to brighten your day!

Ingredients

To create this delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 cup pure pumpkin puree
¼ cup (59ml) vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup (118ml) nonfat milk
¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup (31g) all-purpose flour (for streusel)
1 cup (200g) brown sugar (for streusel)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for streusel)
Pinch of salt (for streusel)

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

Now, let’s kick things off by mixing our dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice. Make sure to whisk thoroughly until everything is well combined. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is essential for a great texture and taste.

Combining Wet Ingredients

Next, it’s time to bring in the wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of pure pumpkin puree, ¼ cup of vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ cup of nonfat milk. Stir these together well until you achieve a smooth consistency. This step is important, as it helps the flavors blend beautifully, leading to a moist cake.

Creating the Batter

Once your wet mixture is ready, pour it into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake. You want to keep it light and fluffy, allowing the cozy flavors to shine through!

Preparing the Streusel Topping

While the batter rests for a moment, let’s prepare that delectable streusel topping. In a small bowl, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter. To the melted butter, add ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Using a fork, mix this together until you have a crumbly texture. It should be well-blended to ensure a lovely topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft cake base.

Assembling the Cake

Now comes the fun part—assembling the cake! First, spray a 9×9 inch pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Once that’s done, sprinkle the streusel mixture generously on top. The key is to make sure it’s evenly distributed so each piece of cake gets a little crunchy goodness.

Baking the Coffee Cake

Let’s preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready for our creation. Place the cake in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick about 2 inches from the side. If it comes out clean, you’re good to go! Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a delightful experience in itself. I recommend enjoying a warm slice paired with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. For an extra treat, consider topping it with a dollop of whipped cream or a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for sweetness. This coffee cake is also a perfect addition to a fall brunch table, especially alongside seasonal fruits that’ll brighten up your spread.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Pumpkin Coffee Cake turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Make sure your baking powder is fresh. This is crucial for the best rising results.
Avoid overmixing the batter; this keeps your cake light.
To test for doneness, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center—it should come out clean.

Variations

This recipe is versatile, and you can personalize it to suit your taste. For added spice, try mixing in chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips into the batter or streusel. If you’re looking for a whole grain twist, consider substituting half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Plus, experimenting with different spices like nutmeg or allspice can add a unique flavor kick!

Storage Tips

After baking your Pumpkin Coffee Cake, you’ll want to know how to store it properly. Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to save some for later, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and they can last for up to one month. This way, you can enjoy a slice of comfort anytime!

Pairing Ideas

For the ultimate cozy experience, this coffee cake pairs beautifully with spiced chai tea or apple cider. And if you’re feeling a little indulgent, serving it alongside vanilla ice cream or a smear of cream cheese frosting takes it to the next level.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s pureed well and not too watery.

2. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, it’s naturally egg-free! Simply substitute plant-based milk and butter to keep it vegan.

3. How can I make the streusel topping crispier?
You can increase the baking time slightly, and adding oats can help achieve a crunchier texture.

4. Can I add ingredients like nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes, feel free to mix in your favorites to enhance both flavor and texture.

5. How do I know when the coffee cake is fully baked?
A toothpick will help! Insert it into the center or side, and if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Combining ease of preparation with rich, warming flavors, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake will become a seasonal star in your kitchen. Perfect for cozy mornings or gatherings, it invites everyone to indulge and celebrate fall. The mix of moist pumpkin and crunchy streusel ensures every bite is satisfying. Customize and enjoy!