Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake. This cake is a family favorite in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you! The combination of warm spices and creamy pumpkin creates a cozy atmosphere, making it ideal for everything from busy weeknights to festive family gatherings. Plus, the crunchy crumb topping adds an irresistible texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.

What makes this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake even more special is how simple it is to make. Whether you’re baking for friends or just treating yourself, this cake will fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma and warm hearts at the same time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious cake.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet pumpkin flavor and crunchy topping.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for brunch, dessert, or just because—it fits right in!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It keeps well, so you can bake it in advance and enjoy throughout the week.
• Delicious Fall Flavors: The blend of spices and pumpkin makes every bite a seasonal delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will come together to create this mouthwatering Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake. You probably already have many of these staples in your pantry!

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 quite flexible, allowing you to personalize it to your taste! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Stir in a cup of chocolate chips for a sweet twist that everyone will love.
• Dried Fruits: Mix in some raisins or cranberries for a hint of tartness against the sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

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 ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out perfectly shaped!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. This step blends all those lovely spices together so they can infuse their flavors into your cake evenly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Pumpkin

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat together the butter and pumpkin puree until well distributed. Don’t worry if it’s not completely smooth; we want that rich texture! Next, add in the sugar and mix until combined. Then beat in the eggs and vanilla. This creates a moist base full of flavor!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the flour mixture in three additions while alternating with milk. Beat on low speed until no white remains. It’s important not to over-mix here; we want our cake to stay tender.

Step 5: Make the Crumb Topping

For those irresistible crumbs on top, combine all topping ingredients in a medium bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until small crumbs form. This crunchy layer is what takes our cake from good to great!

Step 6: Layer It Up

Pour half of your pumpkin batter into the prepared dish. Then layer with half of your crumb mixture before adding the rest of the batter on top. Finish off by sprinkling on the remaining crumbs—this is going to be delicious!

Step 7: Bake & Enjoy!

Bake for 45-55 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before serving—trust me; this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake tastes even better when shared with loved ones! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Making the perfect Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can elevate the flavor of your cake. They provide a more vibrant taste that enhances the pumpkin, making each bite truly delightful.

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter that incorporates air better, resulting in a fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cake towards the end of the baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

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

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Presentation is key when serving your delicious Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake! It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family moments. Here are some ideas on how to make it even more enticing.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the spices beautifully.

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkle some toasted nuts on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.

Side Dishes

• Apple cider: A warm cup of apple cider brings a seasonal touch that enhances the flavors in the crumb cake while offering a comforting drink option.

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of non-dairy vanilla ice cream brings creaminess and sweetness, creating a delightful contrast against the spiced cake.

• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the crumb cake.

• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea offers soothing notes that complement the spice flavors in your pumpkin cake, making it a cozy treat for any time of day.

Enjoy sharing this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake with friends and family—it’s sure to become a beloved favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep, as it keeps well and makes for delightful snacks or desserts throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly to maintain its delicious flavor and texture.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake, where it will last up to a week.
• Ensure each piece is wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or stored in a sealed container to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

• Allow the crumb cake to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To warm up, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake!

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. Just store it properly as mentioned above, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready when you need it.

What does Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake taste like?

Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake offers a wonderful combination of moist pumpkin flavors with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The crumb topping adds a delightful crunch that beautifully complements the soft cake beneath.

Is there an alternative to using eggs in Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) for a vegan-friendly version.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour if you’d like a nuttier flavor and added fiber. However, keep an eye on the moisture level, as whole wheat flour can absorb more liquid.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about baking this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake as I am! Its warm spices and delightful crumb topping make it absolutely irresistible—perfect for sharing with friends and family during those cozy fall gatherings. Enjoy making this recipe in your kitchen, and may every bite bring warmth and joy. Happy baking!