Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake Recipe

Cozy Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake Recipe for Fall Mornings

Fall’s crisp air brings a delightful pumpkin spice crumb cake that dances with warmth and nostalgia.

Cozy kitchens beckon with aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through every corner.

Seasonal baking creates magical moments that connect us to cherished memories.

Soft, tender cake layers underneath a crumbly, sweet topping promise pure comfort.

Maple undertones complement the rich pumpkin essence, making each bite a celebration of autumn’s bounty.

Baking this treat will fill your home with inviting scents that welcome loved ones.

You’ll find comfort in every forkful of this irresistible seasonal delight.

Pumpkin Crumb Cake Ideas For New Flavors

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Cake: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend, ensuring a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Apple Spice Alternative: Swap pumpkin puree with unsweetened applesauce, creating a lighter, fruity version of the original recipe.
  • Vegan Friendly Adaptation: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, coconut oil in place of vegetable oil, and ensure all ingredients are plant-based.
  • Low-Sugar Version: Substitute granulated and brown sugars with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining delicious flavor.

Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake Serving Suggestions

  • Cozy Morning Delight: Pair this pumpkin spice crumb cake with a steaming mug of hot coffee or chai tea for a comforting breakfast experience.
  • Dessert Elegance: Serve a slice with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent after-dinner treat that elevates the cake's warm spices.
  • Brunch Centerpiece: Create a beautiful autumn-themed brunch spread by presenting the cake on a rustic wooden board, surrounded by seasonal fruits like apples and pears.
  • Holiday Gift Idea: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon for a homemade gift that captures the essence of fall's delicious flavors.

Storing Pumpkin Crumb Cake For Lasting Softness

  • Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  • Slice the cake and place individual portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Seal completely to prevent freezer burn.
  • Remove frozen cake from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours. Alternatively, warm gently in the microwave for 20-30 seconds per slice.
  • Warm cake slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300F for 5-7 minutes to restore moisture and restore its fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

  • How do I know if the crumb topping is the right consistency?

Mix the melted butter into the dry ingredients until it forms small, irregular clumps that look like coarse sand. The topping should be slightly moist but still crumbly.

  • Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

  • Why is it important to mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients?

Overmixing can develop gluten and make the cake tough. Stirring just until the ingredients are incorporated ensures a tender, soft cake texture.

What Makes Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake Irresistible

  • Savor Seasonal Delight: Capture the warm, cozy essence of autumn with this pumpkin spice crumb cake that brings comfort directly to your kitchen.
  • Bake with Ease: Perfect for baking beginners, this recipe requires simple mixing techniques and basic ingredients that create a stunning, bakery-style dessert without complicated steps.
  • Family-Friendly Treat: Packed with delicious pumpkin spice flavor, this cake appeals to both kids and adults, making it an ideal sweet treat for family gatherings or weekend brunches.
  • Versatile Dessert Option: Whether you're hosting a casual get-together, preparing a breakfast treat, or craving a midday snack, this crumb cake fits perfectly into multiple occasions and meal settings.

Everything Needed For Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Cake Base Ingredients:
  • Pumpkin Puree: A smooth, rich vegetable puree that adds moisture and autumn flavor to the cake.
  • Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweet ingredients that provide depth of flavor and help create a moist texture.
  • Vegetable Oil: Ensures a tender and soft cake with a smooth crumb.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cake.
  • Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet aroma.
Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The primary structural component that gives the cake its body and texture.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Pumpkin Spice: A classic blend of warm spices that brings the quintessential autumn flavor to the cake.
  • Salt: Balances and intensifies the other flavors in the recipe.
Crumb Topping Ingredients:
  • Flour, Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar: Create a sweet and crunchy topping with a complex flavor profile.
  • Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note that complements the pumpkin flavor.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crumb topping and provides a rich, golden color when baked.

Simple Method For Fluffy Pumpkin Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Get your oven ready by heating it to 350F (175C).

Grab a 9-inch square baking pan and give it a good greasing to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Wet Mixture

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the following ingredients:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Vegetable oil
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract

Whisk everything together until the mixture looks smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Blend Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Pumpkin spice
  • Salt

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Whip Up Crumb Topping

Create a delicious crumb topping by mixing:
  • Flour
  • Brown sugar
  • Granulated sugar
  • Cinnamon

Pour in melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes wonderfully crumbly.

Step 5: Layer the Cake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the surface, making sure to cover the entire cake.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes.

To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes.

Carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and enjoy the warm, spicy goodness of your homemade pumpkin spice crumb cake!

Handy Tips For A Perfect Pumpkin Crumb Cake

  • Add an extra tablespoon of pumpkin puree to keep the cake incredibly soft and prevent dryness during baking.
  • Adjust pumpkin spice blend to your taste preference, increasing or decreasing intensity for personalized flavor profile.
  • Freeze crumb mixture for 10 minutes before sprinkling to create larger, more textured crumbles on top of the cake.
  • Store cake covered at room temperature for 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness and texture.
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Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake Recipe


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4.5 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Seasonal comfort arrives with this pumpkin spice crumb cake, blending warm autumnal spices and rich, buttery textures. Delicate crumb topping and moist cake layers promise a delightful indulgence you’ll savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Crumb Topping Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking environment by warming the oven to 350F (175C) and coating a 9-inch square pan with grease to prevent sticking.
  2. Create a smooth, unified wet mixture by whisking pumpkin puree, sugars, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla until fully incorporated and consistent in texture.
  3. Develop the dry foundation by combining flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin spice, and salt in a separate container, then gently fold into the wet ingredients until just combined to maintain a tender crumb.
  4. Craft the crumbly topping by blending flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon, then introduce melted butter and mix until the texture becomes loose and sandy.
  5. Transfer cake batter into the prepared pan, ensuring an even distribution, then generously scatter the crumb mixture across the surface for complete coverage.
  6. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, monitoring until a inserted toothpick emerges clean and the top develops a golden-brown appearance.
  7. Rest the cake in the pan for 10 minutes to stabilize its structure, then carefully transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling and optimal texture.

Notes

  • Swap pumpkin puree with mashed bananas or applesauce for a different flavor profile and added moisture in the cake.
  • Use gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe completely gluten-free without compromising the texture and taste.
  • Reduce sugar content by substituting half the sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia for a lower-calorie version.
  • Enhance crumb topping’s crunchiness by adding chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture and nutty flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 236 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 145 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 31 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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