Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Hey there, fellow dessert enthusiast! If you love cozy flavors that scream autumn and mornings filled with the irresistible aroma of baked goods, then you’re in for a treat. Imagine waking up to a slice of warm, moist coffee cake infused with pumpkin and those nostalgic, spicy notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a hug in food form, perfect for chilly days, brunch gatherings, or whenever you need a little seasonal magic.

Whether you’re a baking newbie or a seasoned pro, this recipe will guide you through every step with ease. Plus, we’ll explore why these ingredients work so well together and share pro tips to elevate your cake game. Ready to become the pumpkin spice hero of your kitchen? Let’s get started!

Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Recipe

Before we break it all down, here’s a quick peek at what you’ll be creating-a luscious coffee cake that:

• Features tender crumb with a buttery richness.
• Boasts a cinnamon-sugar streusel topping that’s crunchy and sweet.
• Is generously flavored with pumpkin puree and warm autumn spices.
• Perfectly pairs with your morning coffee, tea, or a cozy evening cocoa.

Sound delicious? It’s because it is! Now, let’s uncover the magic behind it.

Ingredients Needed

Getting your ingredients right is half the fun-and the secret to success. Here’s your shopping list:

For The Cake

• All-purpose flour (about 2 cups) – The foundation for structure.
• Granulated sugar (3/4 cup) – For sweetness.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed) – Adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor.
• Pumpkin puree (1 cup) – The star ingredient, lending moisture and that unmistakable pumpkin goodness.
• Vegetable oil (1/2 cup) – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Eggs (2 large) – For binding and structure.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor.
• Baking powder (1 tsp) and baking soda (1/2 tsp) – Leavening agents that help the cake rise.
• Salt (1/2 tsp) – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Pumpkin pie spice (2 tsp) – A fragrant mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. You can also use 1 tsp cinnamon + 1 tsp nutmeg + 1/2 tsp ground cloves if you prefer fresh spices.

For The Streusel Topping

• All-purpose flour (1/2 cup)
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup)
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp)
• Unsalted butter (4 tbsp, cold and cut into small pieces) – Creates a crumbly, buttery topping.
• Chopped nuts (optional, 1/4 cup) – Walnuts or pecans add crunch and flavor.

How To Make Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake

Now, here’s where the magic happens. Follow along for a step-by-step journey to pumpkin spice perfection:

1. Preheat & Prep

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make The Streusel Topping

   • In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
   • Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Stir in nuts if you’re using them. Set aside.

3. Mix The Wet Ingredients

   • In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Combine The Dry Ingredients

   • In another bowl, sift together flour, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.

5. Bring It All Together

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring just until combined. Don’t overmix – a few lumps are okay!

6. Assemble

   • Pour the batter into your prepared pan.
   • Evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter.

7. Bake

   • Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow to cool slightly before slicing.

8. Serve & Enjoy

   • This cake is perfect warm or at room temperature.
   • Pair with your favorite morning brew for ultimate cozy vibes.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s nerd out for a minute! Here’s why these ingredients play such important roles in your coffee cake:

• Pumpkin Puree: More than just flavor, pumpkin adds moisture, making the cake tender and soft. It also contributes natural sugars and fiber.
• Vegetable Oil: Unlike butter, oil stays liquid at room temperature, resulting in a moist, tender crumb that doesn’t dry out quickly.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents release carbon dioxide bubbles as the cake bakes, helping it rise and become fluffy.
• Brown Sugar: Contains molasses, which adds moisture and depth of flavor, creating a richer cake compared to using white sugar alone.
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves contain essential oils that give your cake its warm, spicy aroma, stimulating your senses and boosting that cozy autumn feel.
• Butter in Streusel: The cold butter in the topping melts slowly during baking, creating delightful pockets of crispiness and a buttery crunch.

Expert Tips

Want your pumpkin spice coffee cake to impress even the toughest critics? Here are some pro tips:

• Don’t overmix the batter! Overworking gluten leads to a tough cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
• Use fresh pumpkin pie spice or freshly ground spices for the brightest flavor.
• Chill the butter for the streusel topping before mixing – this helps create that perfect crumbly texture.
• Test with a toothpick starting around 30 minutes, ovens vary!
• Add a pinch of salt to your streusel topping to balance the sweetness and add complexity.
• Store leftovers wrapped tightly or in an airtight container; the cake actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld.
• Try warming slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving for a fresh-baked feel.

Recipe Variations

Feeling creative? Here are some fun ways to tweak this classic recipe:

• Add cream cheese swirl: Dollop softened cream cheese mixed with sugar and vanilla into the batter before baking for a luscious surprise.
• Swap nuts: Use almonds, hazelnuts, or omit nuts altogether for allergies.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
• Boost the spice: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or allspice for a unique twist.
• Pumpkin chocolate chip: Fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips into the batter.
• Maple syrup drizzle: After baking, drizzle pure maple syrup or a simple glaze for added sweetness.
• Vegan version: Use flax eggs and coconut oil or vegan butter alternatives.

Final Words

There’s something truly magical about baking a pumpkin spice coffee cake that fills your home with nostalgic warmth and comfort. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth but creates moments-moments to share with loved ones over a cup of coffee, to savor quietly on a chilly morning, or to gift as a homemade token of love. This cake is a perfect canvas for your baking creativity, adaptable to your tastes and occasions.

So next time you crave a slice of fall in every bite, this recipe has got you covered. Trust me, your kitchen (and taste buds) will thank you!

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For A Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?

For a pumpkin spice coffee cake, you will typically need flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, sugar, butter, eggs, pumpkin puree, sour cream (or yogurt), vanilla extract, and optionally, a streusel topping made of butter, brown sugar, flour, and oats.

Can I Make A Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Without Eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs in a pumpkin spice coffee cake with alternatives like unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg), a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), or a commercial egg replacer.

How Do I Make The Streusel Topping For The Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?

To make a streusel topping, combine 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cut in 1/4 cup cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle over the coffee cake batter before baking.

Can I Use Canned Pumpkin Puree For This Recipe?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree is commonly used in pumpkin spice coffee cake recipes. Be sure to choose 100% pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.

How Long Should I Bake The Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?

The pumpkin spice coffee cake should be baked at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of your pan and oven. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when the cake is done.

Can I Freeze A Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can freeze pumpkin spice coffee cake. After it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven before serving.

Can I Add Nuts Or Chocolate Chips To The Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can add 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor and texture. Mix them in gently to avoid overworking the batter.

How Can I Make The Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Gluten-free?

To make the coffee cake gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Be sure to check the ingredients of other components (like baking powder) to ensure they are gluten-free.

What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Sour Cream For The Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?

If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute with plain yogurt, buttermilk, or even milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to replicate the tangy flavor and moisture.

How Can I Enhance The Pumpkin Flavor In The Coffee Cake?

To enhance the pumpkin flavor, try adding a bit of pumpkin extract or more pumpkin puree. Additionally, increasing the amount of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves will help bring out the flavor profile of the pumpkin.