Pumpkin Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to brighten your day, you’re in the right place! This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is my go-to recipe for when the weather turns crisp and leaves start to fall. It fills the kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of pumpkin spice, making it perfect for family gatherings or a quiet afternoon snack. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this cake has a special place in my heart.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a delightful brunch addition, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is always a hit. The moist texture paired with a crunchy streusel topping makes it simply irresistible. Plus, it’s easy enough for anyone to whip up—even if you’re not an experienced baker!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly and requires minimal fuss. Perfect for novice bakers!
• Family Favorite: Everyone will love the delicious pumpkin flavor and spices. It’s sure to become a household staple.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it the night before and enjoy it fresh in the morning, or serve it at your next gathering.
• Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the pumpkin and sour cream, this coffee cake stays moist and flavorful every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is simple! You probably have most of these wholesome items in your pantry already. Let’s take a look:

For the Cake

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams) (melted)
• 1 and 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (167 grams)
• 6 tablespoons brown sugar (79 grams) (1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67 grams)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (375 grams) (spooned & leveled)
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil (180 ml) (or canola oil)
• 1 and 1/2 cups packed brown sugar (315 grams)
• 3 large eggs, whisked together (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml) (room temperature)
• 2 cups canned pumpkin (or one 15oz can plus 1 extra tablespoon sour cream)

For the Topping

• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (30-45 ml) (or milk)
• 1 – 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (110 – 165 grams) (sifted)

Variations

One of the best things about this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: For a sweet twist, incorporate dark chocolate chips into the batter.
• Change Up the Spices: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or allspice to create your unique flavor profile.
• Frost It! Instead of just drizzling with glaze, use cream cheese frosting for an extra rich treat.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven ensures that your cake rises properly and develops that lovely golden color.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and lightly flour it. The sides should be at least 2 inches tall; otherwise, your cake may overflow as it bakes. A well-prepared pan helps prevent sticking and ensures easy removal.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices. Mixing dry ingredients thoroughly helps evenly distribute flavors throughout the cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, mix together melted butter, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and canned pumpkin until smooth. Combining wet ingredients before adding them to dry ensures everything blends perfectly without overmixing.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep your cake light and fluffy!

Step 6: Pour into Pan & Bake

Pour your batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top. Bake for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting from your oven will be heavenly!

Step 7: Cool & Glaze

Let your coffee cake cool slightly before drizzling with heavy cream mixed with powdered sugar. This glaze adds sweetness and makes each bite even more indulgent!

And there you have it—your very own Pumpkin Coffee Cake! Enjoy every slice with friends or savor it solo—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Creating the perfect pumpkin coffee cake is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure it turns out beautifully every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Having your eggs, sour cream, and other dairy products at room temperature helps the batter mix more evenly, resulting in a fluffier cake.

• Measure flour correctly: To avoid a dense cake, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly. This prevents over-measuring and keeps your cake light and airy.

• Don’t skip the streusel topping: This crunchy layer adds texture and flavor that perfectly complements the moist pumpkin cake beneath. Plus, it looks fantastic when served!

• Allow it to cool before serving: Letting the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes will help it set properly and make it easier to cut without falling apart.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Adding extra cinnamon or nutmeg can give your cake a unique twist that makes it your own!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Serving pumpkin coffee cake is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful companions. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on each slice brings a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the spiced cake.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of pumpkin coffee cake. Consider using seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or cranberries for an autumn touch.

• Hot coffee or tea: Nothing pairs better with coffee cake than a warm beverage! Brew some fresh coffee or steep a fragrant chai tea to complement the warm spices in the cake.

• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a hearty side dish that balances sweetness with creamy goodness. It’s also great for breakfast alongside your coffee cake!

• Spiced nuts: Roasted spiced nuts offer crunch and flavor that harmonizes perfectly with pumpkin spice. They make an excellent snack or side that guests can nibble on while enjoying their slice of cake.

Now you’re all set to bake up this delicious pumpkin coffee cake! Enjoy every bite of this cozy treat, perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon delight. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat throughout the week. You can bake it in advance and store it for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place the coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, let slices thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• For a warm treat, microwave slices for about 20-30 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350F (180C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?

Absolutely! You can roast and puree fresh pumpkin to use in this recipe. Just make sure to measure out 2 cups after pureeing.

How can I make my Pumpkin Coffee Cake extra moist?

To enhance moisture, ensure your sour cream is at room temperature. Additionally, don’t overmix the batter; gently fold ingredients until just combined.

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake special?

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake stands out with its rich pumpkin flavor, warm spices, and delightful streusel topping. It’s a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the cake?

Yes! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor. Just be mindful of the overall moisture content.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy creating this Pumpkin Coffee Cake as much as I do! It’s a lovely blend of cozy flavors that brings warmth and joy to any gathering or quiet morning at home. Don’t hesitate to try it out—I’m sure you’ll love every slice!