Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

The Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion! With its rich pumpkin flavor and delicious streusel topping, this cake brings warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging in a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends. Its easy preparation and mouthwatering taste make it a standout dessert worth sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of warm spices and pumpkin creates an aromatic experience that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can achieve a delicious result without stress.
• Generous Servings: This recipe yields 16 servings, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep for the week.
• Freezer Friendly: You can easily freeze leftovers for future enjoyment without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe, gather your essential tools to streamline the baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13 inch cake pan
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack (for cooling)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients; larger bowls help prevent spills while mixing.
• Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easier, resulting in a light and fluffy batter.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down sides of bowls and ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.

Ingredients

For the Streusel

• 3 cups all purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup butter (2 sticks, melted)

For the Cake

• 2 & 1/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1 & 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick, softened but still cool)
• 1 (15-oz) can pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling, divided)
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (I use light-flavor olive oil)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Icing

• 1/4 cup butter (half stick, very soft)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (use less if all you have is table salt)
• 3 tablespoons milk (more to taste)
• 2 cups powdered sugar

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 inch cake pan with nonstick spray or rub it with butter.

Step 2: Make the Streusel

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together 3 cups flour, 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice.
2. Melt 1 cup butter in a medium bowl in the microwave.
3. Pour melted butter into the larger bowl with dry ingredients and stir halfway until combined but still crumbly. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

In another large bowl or stand mixer:
1. Combine 2 & 1/4 cups flour, 1 & 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 3/4 teaspoon baking soda, 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
2. Chop chilled butter into chunks and add it to the flour mixture. Blend until crumbly.
3. Add half of the pumpkin puree to the mixture; blend until incorporated without overmixing.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In the same bowl used for melting butter:
1. Combine remaining pumpkin puree with eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
2. Whisk until well blended.

Step 5: Combine Batter

Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients in three additions:
– Beat well after each addition until light and fluffy.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Spread half of the batter into your prepared pan:
– Sprinkle with half of the streusel mixture.
– Add remaining batter on top followed by remaining streusel.

Step 7: Bake

Bake at 350 degrees F for about:
– 35 minutes, then quickly add any leftover streusel on top.
– Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Let cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before serving.

Step 9: Make Icing

Beat together:
– Softened butter with vanilla extract, kosher salt, milk, and powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 10: Serve

Drizzle icing over warm cake slices before serving to enjoy fresh flavors!

This delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Pumpkin coffee cake is a delightful dessert that pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions that can elevate your coffee cake experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a rich and creamy texture that complements the spice of the cake.

With a Hot Beverage

• Enjoy your pumpkin coffee cake with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The flavors blend beautifully, making for an inviting treat.

Topped with Ice Cream

• Serve slices of cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The melting ice cream creates a deliciously creamy contrast.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce over individual servings adds sweetness and depth, enhancing the pumpkin flavor.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Slice the cake into smaller pieces and serve it as part of a brunch buffet, alongside fruits and pastries for a sweet variety.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

To ensure that your pumpkin coffee cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with room temperature eggs and butter helps create a smoother batter and better texture in the final cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out clean or with only a few crumbs attached when the cake is ready.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your baking time, as oven temperatures can vary. Start checking 5 minutes before the suggested time.
• Cool Before Icing: Allow the cake to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before drizzling icing to prevent it from melting away.
• Store Correctly: To maintain freshness, cover the cake properly and store it at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate after that.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin coffee cake can enhance your dining experience. Here are some ideas that work well together:

1. Greek Yogurt
   Its tangy flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the coffee cake while adding protein.
2. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and complements the spiced notes in the pumpkin cake.
3. Cheese Platter
   Include cheeses like brie or goat cheese; their creaminess pairs nicely with the spiced flavors.
4. Roasted Nuts
   A selection of roasted almonds or pecans adds crunch and balances out the soft texture of the cake.
5. Chia Pudding
   This healthy option offers creaminess and nutrients, making it an excellent accompaniment for a delightful dessert spread.
6. Savory Scones
   Serve savory scones alongside for contrasting flavors; cheddar or herb scones work wonderfully here.
7. Hot Chocolate
   A warm mug of hot chocolate serves as a cozy drink option that complements this sweet treat perfectly.
8. Maple Syrup Drizzle
   A simple drizzle over each slice enhances the sweetness while echoing fall flavors found in pumpkin desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your baking game. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for when making the Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe:

• Incorrect Measurements: Ensure you measure all ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to avoid adding too much flour or sugar, which can affect the cake’s texture.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined after each addition of wet ingredients to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Skipping the Streusel: The streusel adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step! Make sure it’s crumbly and generously sprinkled on top for that delightful crunch.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat can result in uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to 350°F before placing your cake inside for optimal results.
• Not Testing for Doneness: Relying solely on baking time can be misleading. Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when done.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into the cake too soon can lead to crumbling. Allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before serving for better slices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store covered in an airtight container.
• The cake will stay fresh for 2-3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer bag or container; they can last up to 3 months frozen.

Reheating Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings for 10-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gradually.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just make sure it’s well-pureed and not watery.

How do I make this Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What can I use instead of butter?

For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute in equal amounts.

Is this cake suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! This Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe is perfect as a breakfast treat or snack alongside coffee or tea.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. With its warm spices and soft texture, it makes an excellent dessert or breakfast option. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor! Try this recipe, and delight your friends and family with every bite!