Pumpkin Coffee Cake

By:

jeremy

Published:

September 25, 2025

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Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a treat that brings the cozy vibes of fall right into your kitchen. Imagine the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg filling the air as you mix up this delicious cake. It’s just perfect for breakfast with your morning coffee or as a sweet afternoon snack. The blend of spices and pumpkin makes each bite soft and irresistible. You might even find yourself enjoying it as a late-night dessert. The beauty of this cake is that it’s hearty enough to satisfy cravings but sweet enough to feel like a treat. Whether you’re entertaining friends, celebrating family, or just indulging in some personal time, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake will surely become a staple. Let’s get started on this delightful journey and bake something wonderful together!

Why This Recipe Works

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake recipe works because it harmonizes classic ingredients and baking techniques to create a delicious dish. The use of pumpkin puree not only adds flavor but also helps keep the cake moist and tender. The combination of brown sugar and spices gives it depth, while the streusel topping brings a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the soft cake. Every layer is designed to enhance the cake’s flavor and texture. Plus, it’s easy enough for any home baker to whip up, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Coffee Cake

You’ll love this Pumpkin Coffee Cake because it ticks all the boxes for comfort food: warm, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying. The layers of rich batter and crumbly streusel create a texture that is both moist and fluffy. A hint of pumpkin spice fills your senses, evoking all the cozy feelings of autumn. Best of all, this cake is incredibly versatile. Whether served for breakfast, dessert, or a gathering with friends, it’s sure to please a crowd! Trust me, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 cup (2 sticks) melted butter
2 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup (1 stick) softened butter
1 (15-oz) can pumpkin puree, divided
4 large eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil (light-flavor olive oil recommended)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup (half stick) very soft butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
3 tablespoons milk (more to taste)
2 cups powdered sugar

Preparing the Streusel

Mix Flour and Sugars

Start by whisking together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice in a large bowl. This sweet and spicy blend is key as it forms the delicious streusel topping full of flavor.

Add Melted Butter

Next, melt 1 cup of butter in the microwave until it’s completely melted. Once melted, pour it into your flour mixture. Stir it all together until combined. The mixture will have a texture like wet sand, with some larger chunks—we want that for a great crunch. Set this aside; if you like, you can chill it in the fridge for a while.

Making the Cake

Combine Dry Ingredients

Now, let’s move on to the cake batter. In another large bowl, whisk together 2 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 3/4 teaspoon baking soda, 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. This mix serves as the foundation for your delicious cake.

Prepare Butter and Pumpkin

Chop up 1/2 cup of softened butter into small pieces and toss it into the flour mixture. Next, open that can of pumpkin puree and add half of it to the bowl. With a paddle attachment or electric mixer, combine everything until a dough ball begins to form, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.

Mix Egg Mixture

In the bowl where you melted the butter, add the remaining pumpkin puree, 4 large eggs, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. Whisk this all together until smooth. This egg mixture is crucial in adding moisture and richness to the cake.

Incorporate Egg Mixture

Now, gradually pour the egg mixture into your flour mixture in three parts. After each addition, beat for about 20 seconds. This is where the magic happens! Once everything is combined, continue to beat for an additional minute. The batter should look light and fluffy—a sign you’re on the right track.

Assembling the Cake

Layer the Batter and Streusel

Get the greased 9×13 inch cake pan ready. Spread 2 cups of the batter into the bottom of the pan, smoothing it out as you go. Now, sprinkle 1 cup of the streusel on top. Then, carefully spread another 2 cups of batter over the streusel, followed by another cup of streusel. This layering creates a beautiful texture when baked! Finish with the remaining batter and streusel on top.

Bake the Cake

Time to bake! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake in the oven and bake it for about 35 minutes. Here’s a little tip: halfway through, check if the cake looks set. Quickly sprinkle any leftover streusel on top, then return it to the oven for an extra 10-15 minutes. You can check it’s done by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean!

Making the Icing

Prepare the Icing

While the cake cools, let’s whip up some icing. In a medium bowl, beat 1/4 cup of very soft butter until smooth. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 3 tablespoons milk, and 2 cups powdered sugar. Mix this until the icing is smooth. If it’s too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little more milk until it reaches the perfect drizzle consistency.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Pumpkin Coffee Cake, the best way to enjoy it is warm, drizzled generously with icing. Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a truly delightful experience. The warmth of the beverage enhances the cake’s spices. It creates a lovely moment to savor.

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is softened but cool. This prevents a greasy batter.
For deeper flavor, consider using fresh pumpkin puree and avoid pumpkin pie filling, which can be too sweet.
Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary.

Variations

Feel free to switch things up! You can add nuts or chocolate chips either in the batter or the streusel for some extra texture. Opt for coconut sugar instead of white sugar if you want a healthier option. For those needing a gluten-free version, almond flour can work wonderfully.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store your Pumpkin Coffee Cake covered at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer freshness, pop it in the fridge and enjoy it within a week.

Pairing Ideas

For a delicious twist, serve your Pumpkin Coffee Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A glass of spiced chai or a refreshing iced latte also pairs beautifully, adding to that warm fall atmosphere.

FAQs

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake so moist?
The secret lies in the pumpkin puree and butter—together, they keep the cake tender and delicious.

Can I make this Pumpkin Coffee Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance; just ensure to store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

How do I know when the cake is done?
When you insert a toothpick into the center, it should come out clean. The cake shouldn’t jiggle if you give the pan a gentle shake!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Coffee Cake?
Yes! Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Perfect for a future treat!

What should I do if the batter is too thick?
Just add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you achieve your desired consistency.

In conclusion, making Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a lovely way to celebrate flavors that warm the soul. This delightful cake brings together sweetness and spice in a way that’s absolutely satisfying. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or shared with loved ones, it’s bound to be a hit. So, gather up those ingredients, get comfy, and let’s create something special together!