Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that fills your home with the warm scents of fall, then this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is just what you need! This delightful cake brings together the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices, making it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings. Imagine serving this moist cake at a potluck or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee—it’s sure to bring smiles all around!

What makes this recipe truly special is not just the delicious taste but also how simple it is to whip up. With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, you’ll find yourself making this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake again and again as the seasons change.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for bakers of all levels. Just mix, layer, and bake!
• Family Favorite: The warm spices and sweet crumb topping are sure to be a hit with everyone, young and old.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, this cake fits right in.
• Make Ahead: You can bake it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack—it’s yummy any time of day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, ensuring that every bite is both delicious and satisfying. Let’s gather what we need to make our delicious Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake!

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! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Use Different Spices: Swap out spices according to your preference—try cardamom for a unique twist!
• Make It Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based butter for a vegan version.
• Incorporate Chocolate: Add chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise in each bite.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing a 9 x 13 inch baking dish will ensure that your cake comes out smoothly after baking.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. This step combines the dry ingredients evenly and infuses them with flavor.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In an electric mixer bowl, beat together the butter and pumpkin puree until they are well combined. It’s okay if there are small lumps—this adds character! Then incorporate the sugar until fully blended before adding in the eggs and vanilla.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the flour mixture in three parts while alternating with milk. Mixing on low speed helps prevent any clumps from forming while keeping everything nice and smooth.

Step 5: Make the Crumbs

To prepare the crumb topping, combine all crumb ingredients in a medium bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until small crumbs form—this gives that sought-after crunchy topping!

Step 6: Layer and Bake

Pour half of the pumpkin batter into your prepared dish. Add half of the crumb mixture on top before layering on the rest of the batter followed by remaining crumbs. Bake for 45-55 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

And there you have it—a delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake that’s sure to be loved by all! Enjoy sharing this deliciousness with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Making the perfect Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with ingredients like butter, eggs, and milk at room temperature helps them blend together more smoothly, creating a lighter and fluffier cake.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined helps prevent a dense texture. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a tougher crumb.

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so check your cake at around 45 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!

• Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing makes it easier to cut and helps maintain its structure.

• Store Properly for Freshness: To keep your crumb cake moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is not only delicious but also beautifully versatile when it comes to presentation. Here are some fun ideas on how to serve it!

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch while enhancing the visual appeal of your cake.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, top each slice with whipped coconut cream for added richness and flavor.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of each slice for an extra crunch and nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin spices.

Side Dishes

• Apple Cider: A glass of chilled apple cider perfectly complements the warm spices in the cake, making it ideal for fall gatherings.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the spiced crumb cake, delighting your taste buds.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like pears and apples provides a light balance against the richness of the cake.
• Coffee or Tea: Pairing this cake with a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea enhances its flavors while making for a cozy afternoon treat.

With these serving tips and garnishes, you’ll be sure to impress friends and family with your delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your delicious cake fresh:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cut the cake into individual slices for easy portioning.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating

• For a warm slice, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the desired slice on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh pumpkin, just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth. This will give your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake a lovely homemade touch.

What makes this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake so moist?

The combination of pumpkin puree and butter contributes to its moist texture, along with the careful incorporation of wet ingredients with dry ones. The spices also enhance its flavor while keeping it tender.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s designed for baking to achieve similar results in your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake!

Can I add nuts to my Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a delightful addition. Just fold them into the batter before layering in your baking dish.

What can I serve with my Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake as much as I do! Its warm spices and comforting texture are truly special, making it perfect for any autumn gathering or cozy evening at home. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family, and enjoy every sweet moment! Happy baking!