Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Pumpkin Coffee Cake is the perfect fall treat, bringing together the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices in a moist cake topped with a crumbly topping and a sweet vanilla glaze. This delightful dessert is ideal for cozy family gatherings, brunches, or even as a midday snack with your coffee. With its rich texture and flavor, this pumpkin coffee cake is sure to impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm and inviting taste that screams fall.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or serve it at parties; it’s always a hit!
• Moist and Tender: Thanks to the pumpkin puree and oil, this cake stays incredibly moist without being heavy.
• Irresistible Topping: The crumb topping adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the soft cake underneath.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking this delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake, gather your tools. Having everything in place will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9 x 9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Pastry cutter (optional)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• 9 x 9-inch baking pan: This size allows for even baking and perfect portion sizes.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients; having multiple sizes can help in organizing your prep.
• Whisk: Ideal for mixing wet ingredients smoothly into dry ingredients without lumps.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Pumpkin season is here to stay with this moist pumpkin coffee cake with a crumb topping and sweet vanilla glaze.

For the Cake

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon cloves
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/2 cup canola (or vegetable) oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the Crumb Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

For the Vanilla Glaze

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• pinch of salt

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9 x 9-inch pan with parchment paper. This makes removing the cake easier once it’s baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* ¼ teaspoon baking powder
* ¾ teaspoon salt
* 2 teaspoons cinnamon
* 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* ½ teaspoon cloves

Mix these ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Make a well in the center of your dry mixture. Add:
* 2 eggs
* 1 cup pumpkin puree
* ⅓ cup milk
* ½ cup canola oil
* 1 teaspoon vanilla

Whisk together these wet ingredients for about thirty seconds before folding them into the dry mixture until just combined.

Step 4: Prepare Batter for Baking

Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Set aside while you make the crumb topping.

Step 5: Create Crumb Topping

In another bowl (you can reuse the same one), mix:
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* ¼ teaspoon salt

Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in:
* ½ cup unsalted butter until clumps form.

Sprinkle this crumble over the pumpkin batter evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Bake for about thirty to forty minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely before glazing.

Step 7: Make Vanilla Glaze

While waiting for your cake to cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together:
* 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
* 1 tablespoon maple syrup
* 1 tablespoon milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* pinch of salt

Adjust thickness by adding more milk or confectioners’ sugar as needed.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve!

Once cooled, drizzle the icing over your Pumpkin Coffee Cake. Slice it into sixteen pieces and serve! Enjoy every bite of this delightful fall treat!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Serving pumpkin coffee cake is a delightful experience, perfect for any occasion. This moist treat pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments to enhance its flavors.

With Coffee

• A classic pairing, enjoy your pumpkin coffee cake with a warm cup of coffee. The rich flavors of the cake complement the boldness of the coffee perfectly.

With Whipped Cream

• Top your slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. This adds a light and airy texture that balances the cake’s richness.

With Ice Cream

• Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream creates a delicious contrast to the warm spices in the cake.

With Fresh Fruit

• Fresh fruit like apples or pears adds a refreshing touch. Their natural sweetness and crunch provide a nice contrast to the soft cake.

With Tea

• Pairing with herbal or chai tea enhances the fall-inspired flavors of pumpkin coffee cake. It’s perfect for an afternoon snack or cozy gathering.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake

To achieve the ultimate pumpkin coffee cake, consider these helpful tips for the best results.

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Fresh puree enhances flavor and moisture compared to canned versions.
• Measure accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precision, which ensures the right balance of ingredients.
• Don’t overmix: Gently fold wet ingredients into dry ones until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when it’s ready.
• Cool completely before icing: Allowing the cake to cool ensures that your glaze doesn’t melt away and maintains its shape.
• Add spices to taste: Feel free to adjust spices based on your preference for more warmth or flavor in your pumpkin coffee cake.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Enhance your meal with these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully with pumpkin coffee cake.

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and a sweet contrast.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for added crunch and creamy texture.
3. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses complements the sweet notes of the cake while providing savory balance.
4. Maple Bacon: Sweet and salty bacon brings an indulgent twist that pairs well with pumpkin flavors.
5. Granola Bars: Chewy granola bars are perfect as a grab-and-go option alongside your coffee cake.
6. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon make for crunchy bites that echo the flavors in the cake.
7. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruits can serve as a hearty breakfast side.
8. Cinnamon Rolls: For those who love sweets, cinnamon rolls can be served alongside, enhancing your brunch spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Pumpkin Coffee Cake a hit. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong pan size: A different pan size can affect baking time and texture. Stick to a 9 x 9-inch pan for best results.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Inaccurate measurements can ruin the recipe. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Skipping the cooling step: Cutting into the cake too soon can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
• Ignoring the glaze consistency: A glaze that’s too thick or thin won’t adhere well. Adjust with milk or confectioners’ sugar until just right.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep it in the fridge if you want it to last longer while maintaining freshness.

Freezing Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pumpkin Coffee Cake:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pumpkin works well! Just ensure it’s pureed smoothly before using.

Is this Pumpkin Coffee Cake suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! It’s perfect as a sweet start to your day or as an afternoon treat.

How can I customize my Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake so moist?

The combination of pumpkin puree and oil keeps the cake moist and tender.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for similar results.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its moist texture and sweet glaze, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins or toppings to make it uniquely yours!