Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is just what you need. It’s moist, spiced perfectly, and topped with a delightful crumb layer. This cake brings back memories of warm gatherings with family and friends, where the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin filled the air. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to treat yourself or for family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to whip up. You can enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or serve it at a festive occasion. Trust me; once you try this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake, it will become a staple in your baking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you can have this delicious cake ready in no time.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or an afternoon snack, this cake fits right in.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the warm flavors of pumpkin and spice.
• Make-ahead goodness: Bake it ahead of time, and it stays fresh for days—great for busy schedules!
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of spices and crumb topping makes every bite feel like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch to your crumb topping.
• Incorporate chocolate chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the batter for an extra sweet surprise.
• Try different spices: Experiment with allspice or cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
• 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 the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing a 9 x 13 inch baking dish now ensures that your cake won’t stick later. It’s a little step that makes a big difference when serving!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices throughout your cake batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat together the butter and pumpkin puree until they are well combined. Don’t worry if it’s not completely smooth; those little bits of butter create wonderful texture! Then add in the sugar and mix until everything is well blended before adding eggs and vanilla.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to add your dry mixture! Do this in three additions while alternating with the milk—this helps keep everything moist. Beat on low speed until there are no visible white streaks left in your batter.

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 blend until small crumbs form. The texture should be crumbly yet cohesive—perfect for creating that crunchy layer!

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour half of your pumpkin batter into the prepared dish followed by half of your crumb mixture. Then layer on the rest of the batter and finish with remaining crumbs on top. Pop it in the oven for about 45-55 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

And there you have it—a delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake that’s sure to bring warmth into any home! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Making this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can make a world of difference in flavor. They provide a more intense and aromatic profile that enhances the overall taste of your cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined ensures a tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle when incorporating the dry ingredients.

• Chill the crumb mixture: If you have time, chilling the crumb topping for about 15 minutes before adding it to the cake can help create a crunchier texture. This extra chill time allows the butter to firm up, resulting in perfect crumbs.

• Test for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing your cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing helps it set and makes for cleaner cuts. Plus, it’s easier to handle when serving!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Serving this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is all about showcasing its warm flavors and inviting aroma. Here are some ideas to present this delicious treat beautifully!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar sprinkle: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal without overwhelming the dish.
• Toasted nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the spices perfectly.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of non-dairy whipped cream adds creaminess and balances the spiced flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea pair wonderfully with the flavors of pumpkin spice, creating a cozy beverage option.
• Cinnamon Applesauce: A side of homemade cinnamon applesauce offers a fruity contrast and adds more warmth to your plate.
• Coffee or Latte: The rich flavors of coffee or a pumpkin spice latte enhance the fall experience and make for an excellent pairing with your cake.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits brightens up your dessert table while adding some natural sweetness.

Now that you have all these tips for making and serving your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake, you’re ready to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite as you embrace the comforting flavors of fall!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious slices throughout the week. With its rich flavors and inviting aroma, it’s a treat that keeps on giving!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to a week.
• If you prefer your crumb cake slightly warmed, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Freezing

• Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping.
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove the wrapping and place slices on a microwave-safe plate; microwave for 30-60 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place slices on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or use a commercial egg replacement product. This will help maintain moisture while keeping your cake delicious.

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is moist?

To keep your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake moist, avoid overmixing the batter and ensure you measure your ingredients accurately. Using fresh pumpkin puree also helps achieve that lovely texture!

Can I use other spices in my Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like allspice or cardamom for a unique flavor twist. Just remember to balance the spices so they complement each other well.

What can I serve with Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

This crumb cake pairs wonderfully with whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream. A hot cup of tea or coffee makes it even more delightful!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake as much as I do! It’s a cozy treat that warms the heart and home during those chilly fall days. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it all by yourself, this recipe is bound to bring joy. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!