If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of fall with the comfort of home, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is just the thing! It’s moist, spiced, and topped with a lovely streusel that makes it perfect for breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or need a quick pick-me-up on busy weeknights, this cake fits the bill beautifully. You’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand because it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this Pumpkin Coffee Cake ready in no time!
Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a slice of this cake—perfect for kids and adults alike!
Versatile Treat: Enjoy it at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a lovely dessert after dinner.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it ahead of time and store it for those busy days when you need something sweet on hand.
Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin spice will fill your home with an irresistible aroma that makes every bite special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be fun and stress-free! This Pumpkin Coffee Cake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake

1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams), melted
1 and 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (167 grams)
6 tablespoons brown sugar (79 grams) (1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons)
1/3 cup granulated sugar (67 grams)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
3 cups all-purpose flour (375 grams), spooned & leveled
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup vegetable oil (180 ml) or canola oil
1 and 1/2 cups packed brown sugar (315 grams) (light is best!)
3 large eggs, whisked together (room temperature)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml) (room temperature)
2 cups canned pumpkin or one 15oz can plus 1 extra tablespoon sour cream

For the Topping

2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (30-45 ml) or milk
1 – 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (110 – 165 grams), sifted

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
Mix in Chocolate Chips: Fold in some semi-sweet chocolate chips to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Try Different Spices: Experiment with spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique twist.
Frosting Options: Swap the glaze for a cream cheese frosting if you’re feeling extra indulgent!

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and lightly flour it. It’s important to ensure the sides of your pan are at least 2 inches tall; otherwise, the batter might overflow during baking.

Now you’re ready to enjoy making this scrumptious Pumpkin Coffee Cake! Stay tuned for more steps where we mix up all those delicious flavors!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Making the perfect pumpkin coffee cake can be a delightful experience, and a few tips can help you achieve that moist, flavorful slice everyone loves!

Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices elevate the flavor profile of your cake significantly, giving it a vibrant taste that really shines through.
Check your baking powder and soda: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Outdated leavening agents can cause your cake to not rise properly, resulting in a denser texture.
Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until the ingredients are combined helps keep the cake tender. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
Let it cool before frosting: Allowing your pumpkin coffee cake to cool completely ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt away. This way, you’ll have a beautifully frosted cake!
Experiment with mix-ins: Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for an extra crunch or sweetness. Just make sure they are evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Serving pumpkin coffee cake is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

Powdered sugar dusting: A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.
Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top creates a delightful contrast with the spice and moisture of the cake.

Side Dishes

Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the rich flavors of the coffee cake.
Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with berries provides a creamy, tangy complement that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
Coffee or tea: Pairing this treat with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances its cozy vibes, making for a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.
Chai latte: The aromatic spices in chai pair beautifully with pumpkin flavors, creating a comforting duo that warms your heart.

Enjoy your pumpkin coffee cake as part of a delightful gathering or simply as an indulgent treat for yourself!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy its deliciousness over several days. It stores well and is great for sharing with friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Label the container with the date for reference.

Reheating

To reheat, unwrap a slice and place it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Alternatively, warm it in a preheated oven at 350F (180C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! You can roast fresh pumpkin and puree it to use in this recipe. Just ensure it’s well-drained to maintain the right consistency.

How can I make my Pumpkin Coffee Cake more flavorful?

To enhance the flavors, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. You can also increase the amount of spices if you love that warm spice aroma!

What is Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a moist and spiced cake made with pumpkin puree, often topped with a crumbly streusel. It’s perfect for breakfast or dessert!

How should I serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

This cake is delightful on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Coffee Cake! Its warm spices and moist texture make it a comforting treat any time of year. Whether you’re sharing it at a gathering or enjoying it solo with your morning coffee, I believe you’ll appreciate every bite. Happy baking!