Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

As the crisp autumn breeze fills the air, there’s no better way to embrace the season than with a warm slice of Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake. This delectable treat combines the rich flavors of pumpkin, a medley of aromatic spices, and a buttery crumb topping that’s irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply indulging in a fall-inspired snack, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Seasonal Ingredients: Packed with pumpkin puree and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
  • Perfect Texture: Moist, tender cake paired with a crunchy crumb topping.
  • Versatile: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or as a mid-day snack with coffee or tea.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp ground cloves
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Crumb Topping:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crumb Topping

  1. In a medium bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
  2. Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
  3. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  2. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter, ensuring even coverage.
  3. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, ensure your spices are fresh and aromatic.
  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense.
  • Customize the Topping: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple glaze for an extra indulgence. It’s also fantastic with a steaming cup of spiced chai or pumpkin latte.

Storage

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep for up to a week, but bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is the ultimate fall comfort food. Its rich, spiced flavor and buttery crumb topping make it a standout dessert for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and watch as it becomes a seasonal favorite in your home!

Serving and Storage Tips for Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve Warm: For the ultimate fall experience, serve your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake warm. Gently heat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add Toppings: Enhance your crumb cake with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
  3. Pair with Beverages: Enjoy your cake with a cup of warm coffee, spiced chai tea, or a classic pumpkin latte. The flavors will complement each other perfectly.
  4. Serve as a Dessert or Breakfast: This cake is versatile – it makes for a delightful dessert or can be served as a comforting breakfast alongside a hot drink.

Storage Tips:

  1. Room Temperature: Store your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It will stay moist and fresh for several days, making it perfect for snacking.
  2. Refrigeration: If you prefer to extend its shelf life, keep the cake in the fridge for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
  3. Freezing: To store for longer, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag or container. Your crumb cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
  4. Freezing the Crumb Topping: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the crumb topping separately in a zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just sprinkle it on top of the cake batter and bake as usual.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake at its freshest, no matter when you decide to indulge in it!

1. Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use plain pumpkin puree for this recipe, as pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar that could alter the flavor and texture of the cake. If you only have pumpkin pie filling, you can reduce the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar in the recipe to compensate.

2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the flour blend you use includes xanthan gum or another binding agent to ensure the cake holds together properly.

3. How can I make the crumb topping more crunchy?

For a crunchier topping, you can add a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the crumb mixture. Additionally, slightly underbake the cake so the crumb topping remains crisp without being too soft.

4. Can I make this cake ahead of time for a party or gathering?

Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making ahead. You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you plan to serve it later, simply warm the slices in the oven or microwave to enjoy it fresh and delicious.

Print
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Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 912 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert, Breakfast
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is the perfect fall dessert, combining a moist pumpkin cake with warm spices and a buttery crumb topping. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack with coffee, this cake will fill your home with the flavors of autumn.


Ingredients

Scale

For the crumb topping:

  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted

For the pumpkin cake:

  • 1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the pan

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make the crumb topping

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  2. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms large, clumpy crumbs. Set aside.

3. Make the pumpkin cake batter

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until combined.
  3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

4. Assemble the crumb cake

  1. Pour the pumpkin cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  2. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.

5. Bake

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the crumb topping is golden brown.

6. Cool and serve

  1. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
  2. Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Pumpkin puree: Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
  • Variations: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for added crunch.

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