Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall, then this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is just what you need! It’s incredibly moist, filled with warm spices, and topped with a delightful crunchy crumb. What makes it even more special is how it brings friends and family together—perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. I can’t wait to share this beloved recipe with you; it has become a staple in my home during the chilly months!

Imagine the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen as this cake bakes. Not only is it delicious, but its simplicity makes it an easy choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself on a quiet evening, this cake will surely bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you’ll whip up this cake in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet and spiced flavors.
• Perfect for sharing: This recipe yields plenty, making it ideal for gatherings or potlucks.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it in advance and enjoy fresh slices throughout the week.
• Deliciously spiced: Each bite is packed with comforting autumn flavors that warm the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake. You’ll find that these items are likely already in your pantry, ready to combine into something truly delightful!

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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations to make it your own:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Mix in chocolate chips: A handful of dark chocolate chips can add a lovely richness.
• Swap out pumpkin: Use sweet potato puree for a different flavor twist.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cardamom or allspice for unique flavor notes.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing a 9 x 13 inch baking dish will ensure that your cake doesn’t stick while baking. This step sets you up for success!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. This dry mixture forms the backbone of our cake and helps distribute the spices evenly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Pumpkin

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat together the room temperature butter and pumpkin puree until well mixed. It’s okay if it’s not completely smooth; we want that comforting texture! Next, add in the granulated sugar and beat until everything is combined beautifully. Don’t forget to mix in those eggs and vanilla—this adds richness and flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add your flour mixture! Do this in three additions while alternating with milk. Beat on low speed just until no white remains; you want to keep that batter fluffy. Set it aside while we prepare our crumb topping.

Step 5: Make the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, combine all crumb topping ingredients. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix in the cold cubed butter until small crumbs form. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful texture atop your cake.

Step 6: Layer and Bake

Pour half of the pumpkin batter into your prepared dish. Layer half of those delicious crumbs over it before adding the rest of the batter on top. Finish by sprinkling on the remaining crumbs. Bake for 45-55 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean from the center—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

I hope you enjoy making this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake as much as I love sharing it with you! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Making the perfect Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is all about the details! Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your cake, giving it that warm, aromatic taste we all love in fall desserts.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures better incorporation of ingredients, leading to a moist cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined when adding flour to prevent the cake from becoming dense. Overmixing activates gluten in the flour, which can make your crumb cake tough instead of light and fluffy.

• Check doneness with a toothpick: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking for doneness around 45 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached but no wet batter.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This will help set the crumb structure and make slicing easier without crumbling.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake can be just as fun as baking it! Here are some delightful ideas on how to present this delicious treat.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal, making your cake look extra special.

• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream provides a creamy contrast to the spiced crumb cake while keeping it light and fluffy.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and pomegranates complements the warm spices of the crumb cake without overpowering its flavors.

• Vanilla ice cream: The rich creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm spices in the cake, creating a lovely contrast in temperatures and textures.

• Hot apple cider: This comforting beverage enhances the fall vibes while providing a sweet and spicy pairing with each slice of your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake.

Feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions! Whether you’re enjoying this delightful treat on its own or elevating it with garnishes and sides, your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake will surely be a hit. Happy baking!

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, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it 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

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• For the whole cake, cover with foil and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree in this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

Yes! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, simply roast and puree your pumpkin until smooth. This will give your cake a lovely homemade touch!

How can I make this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free to keep this recipe safe for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I reduce the sugar in the Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake recipe?

Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar by up to half without significantly affecting the texture. Just remember that it may alter the sweetness level slightly.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with family or savoring on your own. Don’t hesitate to get creative with spices or toppings—make it your own! Happy baking!