Introduction to Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping
What is Pumpkin Coffee Cake and Why You'll Love It?
If you’re a fan of cozy, warm spice flavors and delightful pastries, Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. This cake beautifully combines the comforting essence of pumpkin with aromatic spices, creating a delectable crowd-pleaser perfect for brunches or cozy afternoons.
Imagine slicing into this moist, fluffy cake and revealing the inviting crumb topping that adds just the right amount of crunch. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the experience. The warm aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Plus, the addition of pumpkin provides a subtle sweetness and a nutritious boost — after all, it’s a fruit, right?
You might wonder how a simple coffee cake can become a staple in your home. Well, this recipe is versatile and easy to personalize! You can pair it with your favorite coffee, tea, or even a warm spiced cider. If you're curious about how pumpkin can elevate your desserts, check out this guide to baking with pumpkin. Now, are you ready to dive into this delightful recipe? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping
Creating the perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping starts with quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to whip up this delightful treat!
Essential Ingredients for the Crumb Topping
- All-Purpose Flour: ½ cup (63g) - This forms the base of your crumb topping.
- Brown Sugar: ½ cup (100g), packed - It adds sweetness and a rich flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 and ½ teaspoons - For that warm, spicy aroma.
- Unsalted Butter: ¼ cup (4 tablespoons; 56g), cold - Ensures your crumbs are buttery and delicious.
Key Ingredients for the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (250g) - Another layer for the cake’s structure.
- Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon and Baking Powder: ½ teaspoon - These help the cake rise beautifully.
- Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup (226g) - The star of the show, adding moisture and flavor!
- Brown Sugar: Again, ½ cup (100g), packed - Consistency is key!
- Canola or Vegetable Oil: ½ cup (120ml) - For a tender crumb.
Additions for Vanilla Icing
- Confectioners’ Sugar: 1 cup (120g) - This sweetening staple creates the glaze.
- Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer, Half-and-Half, or Milk: 2 tablespoons - Adds a creamy texture.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: ¼ teaspoon - Enhances the overall flavor profile.
With these ingredients, your Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping will not only taste amazing but also fill your home with delightful aromas. Don't skimp on freshness—choose quality ingredients for the best results! For tips on measuring baking ingredients accurately, check out this guide.
Step-by-step Preparation for Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping
Preheat the oven and prepare your baking pan
Before you dive into mixing ingredients, let’s set the stage for baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This ensures that our Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping bakes evenly and rises perfectly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9-inch square or springform baking pan. Coat it generously with nonstick spray to prevent any sticking disasters later. Some bakers recommend lining the bottom with parchment paper for added security against sticking. This step sets you up for success!
Make the crumb topping
Now, let’s move on to crafting that delightful crumb topping. In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of packed brown sugar, and 1 and ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon—this mix creates a tantalizing aroma as you get started! Cut in ¼ cup of cold unsalted butter using a pastry blender or a fork until the mixture forms clumps and crumbs. This crumbly goodness will add a nice crunch to the top of your cake. Set this aside; it’ll be ready to shine later.
Mix the dry ingredients for the cake
In a larger bowl, it’s time for the dry ingredients to do their thing. Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Sprinkle in 1 and ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves, and ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger. This blend of spices is what makes your Pumpkin Coffee Cake truly festive! Whisk them together until fully incorporated.
Combine wet ingredients and fold into the dry mix
In another medium bowl, mix up the wet ingredients. You’ll need 1 cup of pumpkin puree, ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of canola or vegetable oil, ¼ cup of pure maple syrup, and ¼ cup of milk. Whisk these together until smooth. Now, pour this delicious mixture into your dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Remember, a thick batter is normal—don’t over-mix!
Pour batter into the pan and add crumb topping
Spoon the thick batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Next, sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter, gently pressing it down to ensure it attaches well. This step not only adds texture but also makes your cake eye-catching.
Bake to perfection
It’s time to pop this beauty into the oven! Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will start to smell divine, hinting at the delicious treat to come. Once baked, allow the cake to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. Enjoy your rewarding slice of Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping—perfect for cozy mornings or as an afternoon treat!
Variations on Pumpkin Coffee Cake
Gluten-free Pumpkin Coffee Cake
If you're following a gluten-free diet, no worries! You can easily make a delicious gluten-free version of this Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure to include xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already have it, as it helps mimic the structure provided by gluten. The rest of the ingredients can remain the same, allowing you to enjoy a moist and flavorful coffee cake guilt-free!
Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Nuts or Chocolate Chips
For a delightful twist, consider adding a handful of nuts or chocolate chips to your Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a satisfying crunch, while chocolate chips complement the pumpkin's natural sweetness beautifully. Simply fold them into the batter before baking for an added layer of flavor and texture. It’s a fantastic way to personalize your cake and impress your friends (or yourself) with a bit of creativity!
By experimenting with these variations, you can easily cater this delightful treat to suit your dietary preferences or cravings. Happy baking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Pumpkin Coffee Cake
Tips for Achieving a Moist Cake
To ensure your Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping is perfectly moist, consider these tips:
- Choose the right pumpkin puree: Look for 100% pure pumpkin puree, as this adds natural moisture.
- Don’t over-mix: Gently combine your wet and dry ingredients until just blended. Over-mixing can lead to a dense cake.
- Add an extra egg: For an even richer texture, try adding an additional egg, as this helps retain moisture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking
Avoid these pitfalls to guarantee your cake turns out beautifully:
- Using stale spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor; check their potency before use.
- Incorrect ingredient measurement: Use spooned and leveled flour for accuracy—too much could dry out your cake!
- Skipping the crumb topping: This adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor; don’t miss out on this delicious layer.
Discover more baking tips on Joy of Baking for added inspiration!
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Coffee Cake
Best Drinks to Pair with Your Coffee Cake
When enjoying your Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping, the right drink can elevate the experience. Here are some perfect pairings:
- Coffee or Espresso: The classic combo! A robust brew complements the cake's warm spices beautifully.
- Chai Latte: The spiced creaminess of chai enhances the pumpkin flavors, making each bite feel cozy.
- Hot Apple Cider: For a fall-inspired treat, serve this subtly sweet drink alongside your cake.
- Herbal Tea: A calming herbal infusion, like chamomile or peppermint, provides a refreshing balance.
Ideal Occasions for Serving
This cake is versatile enough to shine at various gatherings. Consider serving it during:
- Brunches: Ideal for a leisurely weekend with friends.
- Holiday Celebrations: Perfect for Thanksgiving or autumn-themed events.
- Coffee Dates: Impress guests with a delicious slice and delightful conversation.
- Afternoon Snacks: A comforting pick-me-up on a busy weekday.
Whatever the occasion, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Time Breakdown for Pumpkin Coffee Cake
Preparation time
Get ready to whip up your delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping in just 20 minutes! This step is all about gathering ingredients and mixing them together.
Baking time
Once your oven is preheated, and everything is ready, the baking will take about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll be able to smell the heavenly aroma of pumpkin and spices filling your kitchen.
Total time
In just about an hour, you’ll have a scrumptious coffee cake ready to enjoy! Perfect for a cozy morning or an afternoon treat. So, are you ready to make this delightful cake?
Nutritional Facts for Pumpkin Coffee Cake
Calories
This delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping packs in about 280 calories per serving. Perfect for an indulgent breakfast or a cozy fall treat!
Sugar Content
With approximately 18 grams of sugar per slice, this cake strikes a balance between sweetness and flavor. The natural sweetness of pumpkin paired with brown sugar creates a satisfying taste without overwhelming your palate.
Fiber and Protein
Each slice offers around 2 grams of dietary fiber and 3 grams of protein, making it a tasty option to fuel your day. The pumpkin puree not only adds moisture but also contributes to the fiber content, providing a nice boost to your nutrition.
By enjoying this recipe, you're not just treating yourself to something delicious; you're also incorporating some wholesome ingredients into your day! For more on the health benefits of pumpkin, check out this informative article from the American Heart Association.
FAQ about Pumpkin Coffee Cake
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping is perfect for make-ahead options. You can prepare the batter and crumb topping the night before, refrigerate them separately, and pop it in the oven when you're ready to bake. This is a great way to impress guests without the last-minute stress!
How do I store leftover coffee cake?
Store any leftover Pumpkin Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to keep it fresh for longer, consider refrigerating it for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer for easy snacking later.
What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?
If you find yourself out of pumpkin puree, you can use applesauce or butternut squash puree as effective substitutes. Each will add a unique flavor while keeping the moist texture you love in this cake. Just remember to maintain the same measurements for the best results!
Conclusion on Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping
In summary, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping is the perfect autumn treat, blending the warm flavors of spices with a moist cake base. Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser! Whether enjoyed with coffee or as a dessert, it’s sure to impress.
Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping: A Cozy, Indulgent Delight
Equipment
- 9-inch square baking pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Pastry blender
- Spatula
Ingredients
Crumb Topping
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour spooned & leveled
- 0.5 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter cold
Pumpkin Coffee Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour spooned & leveled
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg *
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves *
- 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger *
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 0.5 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 0.5 cup canola or vegetable oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer
- 0.25 cup pure maple syrup
- 0.25 cup milk *
Vanilla Icing
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin spice coffee creamer, half-and-half, or milk
- 0.25 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9-inch square or springform baking pan with nonstick spray. Set aside.
- Make the crumb topping first: In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon together. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or a fork. Mix to create clumps and crumbs. Set aside.
- For the cake: In a large bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger until combined. In another bowl, whisk the pumpkin, brown sugar, oil, maple syrup, and milk until combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Spoon the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread to make an even surface. Pour the crumb topping evenly on top and gently press them down into the batter.
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