Pumpkin Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dessert that embodies the spirit of fall, you can’t go wrong with a Pumpkin Crumb Cake. This delightful treat is moist, packed with warm spices, and topped with a satisfyingly crunchy crumb topping that adds just the right texture contrast. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, the Pumpkin Crumb Cake brings together simple ingredients to create a mash-up of flavor and comfort that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal warmth: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a cozy fall flavor that feels like a warm hug.
• Moist and tender crumb: The cake stays perfectly soft thanks to the pumpkin puree, making every bite delicious.
• Crispy crumb topping: A crunchy streusel layer provides an irresistible texture contrast to the soft cake below.
• Simple ingredients: Easy-to-find pantry staples come together quickly for a fuss-free baking experience.
• Versatile serving options: It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a snack with your favorite hot beverage.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Crumb Cake calls for straightforward, wholesome ingredients that combine beautifully to deliver rich taste and delightful texture. Each component plays a key role from moisture to spice and crunch.

• Pumpkin puree: Adds natural moisture and the quintessential pumpkin flavor, ensuring a tender crumb.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure and lightness.
• Sugar (brown and granulated): Brown sugar adds depth and moisture, while granulated sugar balances sweetness.
• Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s rich texture.
• Butter (unsalted): Provides richness in both the cake and crumb topping for better flavor.
• Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves): These warm spices give the cake its signature seasonal character.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Essential leavening agents that help the cake rise and stay fluffy.
• Vanilla extract: Adds aromatic sweetness that enhances all other flavors.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the overall flavor.
• Oats (optional): For a heartier crumb topping with extra crunch and texture.

Variations for Pumpkin Crumb Cake

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your Pumpkin Crumb Cake! It’s super easy to tailor the recipe to your dietary needs, available ingredients, or personal flavor preferences.

• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a cake everyone can enjoy.
• Nutty addition: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping for an earthy crunch.
• Dairy-free version: Use coconut oil or vegan butter and a flax egg substitute for a plant-based treat.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the spice mix for a unique twist.
• Maple syrup swap: Replace some sugar with maple syrup for deeper sweetness and a lovely aroma.

How to Make Pumpkin Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Crumb Topping

Combine cold, diced butter with flour, sugars, oats, and cinnamon in a bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it forms coarse crumbs. Chill the mixture while you make the cake batter to keep the topping crumbly and rich.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat together pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. This ensures a moist, flavorful cake base that’s perfectly spiced.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. Mixing these well helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices for consistent flavor.

Step 4: Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet, stirring gently just until incorporated. Over-mixing can make your cake tough, so stop as soon as you see no streaks of flour.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and evenly sprinkle the chilled crumb topping all over. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool slightly before slicing for the best texture.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Crumb Cake

• Cold butter in crumb: Keep the butter cold when mixing the topping so it creates those perfect crunchy crumbs.
• Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just enough to combine ingredients for a tender, soft crumb.
• Measure flour properly: Spoon and level flour into your measuring cup to avoid a dense cake.
• Let the cake cool: Allow the cake to cool for 15-20 minutes before cutting to let the crumb topping set.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg will truly elevate the flavor profile.

How to Serve Pumpkin Crumb Cake

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple glaze can add an inviting finish that’s both visually beautiful and delicious. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve this Pumpkin Crumb Cake alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a creamy latte for the ultimate fall experience. Fresh fruit or a handful of nuts also pairs well to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice into squares or rectangles and serve on rustic wooden boards for a charming look. Try layering slices between cream cheese frosting for a pumpkin crumb cake sandwich, or crumble pieces over yogurt or oatmeal for a crunchy topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Pumpkin Crumb Cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days, but bring to room temp before serving for best texture.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Cut into individual portions, wrap well, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes. Adding a small pat of butter on top before reheating can restore moisture and richness.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this Pumpkin Crumb Cake?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is actually the most common way to make this recipe. Just avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.

How do I keep the crumb topping crunchy?

Keep the butter chilled when making the topping and avoid overmixing the batter. Also, avoid covering the cake while it’s still warm to prevent moisture from softening the crumbs.

Can I make this Pumpkin Crumb Cake vegan?

Yes! Substitute eggs with flax eggs or other plant-based replacements and use dairy-free butter or coconut oil. This adapts the recipe while retaining great flavor and texture.

Is this recipe suitable for a bundt pan?

It is, but the baking time may vary. Reduce cooking time slightly and keep a close eye on doneness since bundt pans can bake faster than standard pans.

How spicy is the Pumpkin Crumb Cake?

The recipe provides a warm, mild spice level that is perfect for most palates. You can easily adjust the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to make it milder or spicier according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

Warm, inviting, and loaded with seasonal spice, this Pumpkin Crumb Cake is not just a dessert but an experience that brings fall right into your kitchen. Its moist texture, flavorful base, and crunchy topping are perfect for sharing with friends and family. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the plate—your new favorite fall treat awaits!

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