Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for the perfect way to welcome fall, look no further than this delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home, bringing warmth and joy with every bite. The combination of moist pumpkin cake with a crunchy crumb topping makes it an irresistible treat for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake, you’ll want to make it a regular on your dessert table!

Imagine the aroma of warm spices wafting through your kitchen as this cake bakes! It’s not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating memories with loved ones over a slice (or two). So, let’s dive into why this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, you can whip this cake up in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the warm flavors of pumpkin and spice; it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week—perfect for busy schedules!
• Versatile Treat: Serve it as a dessert, breakfast treat, or even an afternoon snack with coffee.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Include chocolate chips: Mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.
• Try different spices: Experiment with other spices like cardamom or allspice for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. This step ensures that your cake won’t stick and will bake evenly—a crucial part of making that perfect crumb!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Combining these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat together the butter and pumpkin puree until well mixed. It’s okay if it’s not perfectly smooth at this point! Next, add the sugar and mix until combined before beating in the eggs and vanilla. This mixture creates that lovely moist texture we love in cakes.

Step 4: Alternate Adding Flour Mixture and Milk

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts while alternating with milk. Mixing on low speed until no white spots remain ensures that everything is well incorporated without overmixing—this keeps our cake light and fluffy!

Step 5: Make the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, combine all crumb topping ingredients. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until small crumbs form. This topping adds that delightful crunch we crave!

Step 6: Layer Your Cake

Pour half of the pumpkin batter into your prepared dish. Layer it with half of the crumbs, followed by the remaining batter topped with more crumbs. This layering technique gives each bite its lovely texture contrast.

Step 7: Bake It Up

Bake for 45-55 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Enjoy that wonderful smell filling your kitchen as you wait—your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake will be worth every minute!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

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

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature allows for better incorporation into the batter, resulting in a fluffier texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can develop gluten in the flour, leading to a dense cake. Mix just until you no longer see dry flour for a light and tender crumb.

• Check for doneness carefully: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake at the 45-minute mark. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging to it, your cake is ready!

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes helps it set and makes slicing easier without crumbling.

• Store properly: To keep your crumb cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for up to a week.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy texture and enhances the spiced flavors of the cake.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
• Dusting of powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar offers a sweet touch that also makes the cake visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: The warm spices in apple cider complement the pumpkin flavors beautifully, creating a cozy pairing perfect for fall gatherings.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream adds creaminess while balancing out the sweetness of the cake.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad with apples, pears, and berries adds freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the crumb cake.
• Coffee or chai tea: Serving a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea alongside enhances the overall experience with comforting flavors that harmonize perfectly with pumpkin spice.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re all set to delight your family and friends with this scrumptious Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for a busy week or looking to impress guests, this cake stores beautifully and provides delicious fall flavors anytime.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cut the cooled cake into individual slices or leave it whole.
• Wrap each slice or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• For whole cakes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake in its pan for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of pumpkin puree for Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it beforehand. Just make sure it’s well-drained so your batter isn’t too watery.

How long does Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake last in the fridge?

Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake can last up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy it chilled or warmed!

Can I substitute any ingredients in this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Also, feel free to replace butter with a plant-based alternative if desired.

What can I serve with Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped coconut cream, a scoop of dairy-free ice cream, or even a warm cup of chai tea.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy baking this delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake as much as I do! It’s not just a treat; it’s a hug in dessert form, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring all by yourself. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with wonderful autumn aromas!