Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall, then you’re in for a treat with this delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake. Every bite is filled with warm spices and pumpkin goodness, making it an instant favorite in my home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something sweet to brighten your day or for family gatherings where everyone will be reaching for seconds!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines simple ingredients with the joy of baking. The crunchy crumb topping adds just the right amount of texture, while the moist cake underneath keeps it tender and delicious. Trust me; your kitchen will smell amazing as this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake bakes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, with minimal fuss! Perfect for novice bakers or anyone short on time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cake, and the warm spices make it feel like a special treat that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake this cake in advance and store it for later. It tastes even better the next day!
• Delicious flavor: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a rich, comforting flavor that’s sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These are all pantry staples that come together to create a deliciously spiced cake you’ll want to make again and again.

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 Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is wonderfully flexible! You can easily swap out ingredients or add new flavors to suit your taste.

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can give a lovely crunch. Just fold them into the batter before baking!
• Change up the spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some allspice or cardamom for an extra kick.
• Top with frosting: A simple cream cheese frosting drizzled over the top can take this cake to another level.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial because it ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the moment you pour in the batter.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While the oven heats up, grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and makes serving easier later on!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Mixing these dry ingredients first allows for even distribution of flavors throughout your cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl (or using an electric mixer), beat together the room-temperature butter and pumpkin puree until they’re well blended. It doesn’t have to be completely smooth—just well combined! Then add in the granulated sugar and mix until fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla next; this will give your cake moisture and richness.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients Gradually

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add your flour mixture in three parts, alternating with milk. Start by adding one-third of the dry mix then half of the milk until everything is smoothly combined—this helps keep your cake tender.

Step 6: Make the Crumbs

To create that irresistible crumb topping, combine all topping ingredients in a medium bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix in cold cubed butter until small crumbs form. This crunchy layer is what makes this cake truly special!

Step 7: Layer It Up

Pour half of your pumpkin batter into the prepared dish. Sprinkle half of those lovely crumbs over it before adding the rest of your batter on top. Finish by sprinkling on the remaining crumbs—this creates that perfect texture contrast when baked.

Step 8: Bake Until Perfect

Bake your masterpiece for about 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!

With these simple steps, you’ll have a delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake ready to share with friends and family (or enjoy all on your own). Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Baking this delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is a breeze with just a few helpful tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the butter and eggs blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and a moist cake.

• Don’t skip the spices: The warm spices are what make this cake truly comforting and flavorful. Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your personal taste!

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake around the 45-minute mark. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, ensuring it’s baked just right.

• Allow to cool before serving: Giving your cake time to cool will help it set properly, making it easier to slice without crumbling.

• Store properly: Keep any leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for longer freshness. You can also freeze slices for up to three months!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Serving this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is all about presentation and pairing! Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or a festive autumn get-together, here are some ideas to elevate your dish:

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A light dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy, dairy-free touch that complements the spices beautifully.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
• Dusting of powdered sugar: A simple dusting gives your crumb cake an elegant finish and enhances its visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the crumb cake.
• Hot apple cider: Perfect for fall gatherings, this warm beverage pairs wonderfully with pumpkin spice flavors and adds an extra layer of coziness.
• Vanilla non-dairy ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla non-dairy ice cream on the side will melt slightly over the warm cake, creating a delightful dessert experience.
• Coffee or tea: A hot cup of coffee or herbal tea makes a comforting accompaniment, enhancing the warming spices while providing a perfect afternoon treat.

Now that you’re equipped with these serving ideas and pro tips, you’re ready to impress friends and family with your scrumptious Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake! Enjoy every bite!

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 cozy treat ready to enjoy whenever you like.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the cake overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of pumpkin puree for the Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin. Just cook and puree it until smooth, making sure to drain excess moisture.

What makes this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake so moist?

The combination of pumpkin puree and butter ensures that this cake stays moist and flavorful, giving every bite a delightful texture.

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

Absolutely! If you need a dairy-free version, you can substitute with plant-based butter and non-dairy milk.

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

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an invitation to savor the flavors of fall with family and friends. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment with your favorite beverage, this cake is sure to bring warmth and joy. Happy baking!