Easy Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm slice of coffee cake with a steaming mug of coffee. The aroma of pumpkin and spices wafting through your kitchen can’t help but evoke cozy memories of fall gatherings and family traditions. If you’re like many, balancing a busy schedule with the desire to indulge in homemade treats can be a challenge. That’s where this Easy Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping comes in. This delightful recipe requires minimal effort, yet delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, this coffee cake is versatile enough to enjoy any time of day. Let’s dive into why you will love this pumpkin spice coffee cake!

Why You Will Love This Easy Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping

Picture this: it’s a brisk Sunday morning, and you’ve just poured your first cup of coffee. You want something sweet to accompany it, but time is tight. This is exactly where our Easy Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake makes its entrance. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe won’t leave you tied to the kitchen for hours. In just a short time, you can create a deliciously moist and spiced coffee cake that will impress family and friends alike.

This recipe not only simplifies your baking experience but also treats you to the quintessential flavors of autumn. The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg makes each bite a delightful homage to the season. Additionally, the crumb topping provides that perfect crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft cake beneath. It’s an easy win for busy bakers who still want a taste of homemade goodness without the fuss!

Moreover, this will quickly become a staple in your fall baking repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, taking a dish to share, or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this pumpkin spice coffee cake is adaptable and satisfying. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create something special that brings warmth and joy into your home!

Practical Tips / Cooking Tips

To make your pumpkin spice coffee cake a resounding success, follow these practical tips:

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so make sure to measure your ingredients precisely for consistent results.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients such as eggs and butter should be at room temperature to ensure even mixing and a light texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done!
• Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent overcooking.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

In addition to its wonderful flavors, this pumpkin spice coffee cake brings some nutritional benefits to the table:

• Rich in Fiber: Pumpkin is a great source of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Pumpkin is loaded with vitamins such as A, C, and E, and minerals like potassium, all of which support overall health.
• Spices Benefits: Cinnamon and nutmeg not only enhance flavor but also have antioxidant properties, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
• Balanced Ingredients: Though it’s a sweet treat, the use of whole grain flour and eggs can contribute to a more balanced diet.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients (with substitution options in table format)

Ingredient	Substitution Options
1 cup canned pumpkin puree	Homemade pumpkin puree
1 cup granulated sugar	Brown sugar, coconut sugar
2 large eggs	Flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water)
½ cup vegetable oil	Applesauce, melted coconut oil
1¾ cups all-purpose flour	Whole wheat flour, gluten-free flour blend
1 tsp baking powder	Baking soda (with an increase in acid like yogurt or buttermilk)
1 tsp baking soda	Use an extra ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon	Pumpkin spice blend
½ tsp nutmeg	Allspice or cardamom
½ tsp salt	Reduce to ¼ tsp for a low-sodium option
½ cup packed brown sugar (for crumb topping)	Granulated sugar
½ cup oats (for crumb topping)	Finely chopped nuts
½ cup melted butter (for crumb topping)	Coconut oil, dairy-free butter

Instructions (step-by-step with cooking tips)

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt together.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix.
5. Make Crumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, oats, and melted butter. Ensure the mixture is crumbly but not too dry.
6. Assemble the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar.

FAQ

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it to use in this recipe. Just ensure it’s smooth and not overly watery for the best results.

Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?

Yes, this coffee cake can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You may also freeze individual slices for longer storage!

How can I make this coffee cake healthier?

You can reduce the amount of sugar used, substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, or add in healthy extras like nuts or seeds. You can also replace some of the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lower fat version.

Recipe Variations

If you’d like to switch things up a bit, here are some variations to consider:

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter or crumb topping for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate Swirl: Fold in chocolate chips into the batter for a rich twist on this recipe.
• Spiced Up: Increase the spice amount to suit your taste, especially if you enjoy a bolder flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based option and use non-dairy milk in the recipe.

Conclusion with light call to action

This Easy Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the warmth and flavors of fall. With its moist texture, warming spices, and satisfying crumb topping, it’s bound to please friends and family alike. So, next time you find yourself in need of a comforting treat or a delightful addition to your brunch spread, remember this recipe! We’d love to see how your coffee cake turned out, so share your baking adventures with us, and happy baking!

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