Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that brings the warmth of fall right into your kitchen, you’re in for a delightful surprise with this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake. This recipe is a favorite of mine because it combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices with a crunchy crumb topping that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this cake will surely make everyone feel at home.

The best part? This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is not just delicious; it’s also easy to whip up. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. Just gather your loved ones, enjoy the process of baking together, and watch as this cake becomes the star of the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This pumpkin spice crumb cake comes together quickly, making it perfect for anyone, even if you’re short on time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Both kids and adults love the sweet and spiced flavors, making it a hit for all ages.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it in advance and store it; this cake tastes even better the next day!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen with happiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; most of these are pantry staples!

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 recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Incorporate chocolate: Mix in some chocolate chips to satisfy any chocolate lovers at your table.
• Use different spices: Experiment with cardamom or allspice for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary preferences.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. This step ensures that your cake doesn’t stick to the pan, allowing for easy slicing once it’s baked.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. This mixing helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour so that your cake rises beautifully.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat together the room-temperature butter and pumpkin puree until well distributed. It doesn’t have to be perfectly smooth—those little bits of butter add richness! Next, add in the granulated sugar and beat until combined. Then mix in the eggs and vanilla until everything is nicely blended.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients in three additions while alternating with milk. This method helps keep everything light and fluffy—mix until no white streaks remain.

Step 5: Make the Crumbs

For those delicious crumbs on top, combine all topping ingredients in a medium bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut in the cold cubed butter until small crumbs form. This step adds texture that complements the moist cake beautifully.

Step 6: Layer and Bake

Pour half of your pumpkin batter into the prepared dish. Sprinkle half of those lovely crumbs over it. Then layer with the remaining batter and finish off with more crumbs on top. Bake for 45-55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—this is when you’ll know it’s ready!

Enjoy every bite of this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake! It’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your home as it has in mine.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is all about little details, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can elevate the flavor of your cake significantly. If possible, consider grinding your own cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a more vibrant taste.

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them combine more smoothly, resulting in a lighter cake texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense crumb cake instead of a light and fluffy one.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking your cake around the 45-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allow your cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into it. This helps set the crumb structure and makes for cleaner slices.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake can be just as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this seasonal treat.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy touch that complements the spices beautifully.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling some chopped nuts on top not only adds crunch but also enhances the autumnal feel of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm cake, melting slightly into each slice.
• Apple cider: A glass of warm apple cider pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors, enhancing that cozy fall vibe.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like apples and pears can balance out the richness of the cake.
• Hot chocolate: Enjoying a cup of hot chocolate alongside your slice creates a comforting experience that’s perfect for chilly days.

Enjoy every bite of this delicious Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake! It’s sure to become a favorite in your fall recipe lineup.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is not only a delightful treat but also a fantastic option for meal prep. Whether you’re planning for a cozy gathering or just want to enjoy this cake over a few days, it stores well and even tastes better after the flavors meld together!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date for future reference.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove slices from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until heated through.
• For a crispier topping, reheat in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions people have about making this delicious Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree your fresh pumpkin until smooth. This will give you that rich pumpkin flavor we love in our Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is done baking?

Check your cake by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready!

Can I substitute other spices in Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

Yes! Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference. You can add allspice, cardamom, or even omit some spices if you prefer a milder flavor.

What makes Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake special?

The combination of warm spices and moist pumpkin creates a comforting treat that’s perfect for fall gatherings. The crumb topping adds an irresistible crunch that takes this cake to another level!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake as much as I do! There’s something so special about sharing this cozy treat with friends and family during the fall season. Whether it’s at a festive gathering or just an afternoon snack, every bite brings warmth and joy. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor each delicious crumb!