As the crisp autumn air sweeps in, a familiar warmth floods my kitchen, bringing with it the unmistakable aroma of spices that instantly transports me to cozy family gatherings. This Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake is my go-to recipe when I want to savor those beloved flavors of fall. With its delightful mix of pumpkin and warm spices topped with a crunchy cinnamon crumb, it’s perfect for chilly mornings or as a comforting dessert to share with loved ones. Not only is it quick to whip up, making it a breeze for even busy weekdays, but it also pairs beautifully with your morning coffee or tea. So, are you ready to embrace the season with a slice of this sweet nostalgia?
Why is this Pumpkin Crumb Cake amazing?
Unforgettable Flavor: Each bite delivers a perfect blend of pumpkin and warm spices, making your taste buds dance with delight.
Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and minimal steps, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings!
Versatile Treat: Enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or even a snack; it’s the ultimate cozy food that fits any occasion.
Perfect Pairing: Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s delicious alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Consider pairing it with other tasty treats like our Pumpkin Spice Gooey or Pumpkin Pie Tacos for a delightful fall-themed feast.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Bake it for gatherings, and watch everyone come back for seconds; this cake has a way of bringing people together!
Pumpkin Crumb Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture, ensuring a light and fluffy crumb.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to give your Pumpkin Crumb Cake the perfect rise.
• Salt – Enhances the flavors, so don’t skip this crucial ingredient!
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and a cozy spiced flavor your taste buds will adore.
• Ginger – Offers an extra kick of warmth and spiciness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Nutmeg – Contributes a lovely aromatic touch that evokes the essence of fall.
• Cloves – A small pinch adds depth to the spiciness; use sparingly for a balanced flavor.
• Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient that delivers moisture, flavor, and a lovely orange hue to the cake.
• Butter – Ensures richness; remember to have it at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds necessary sweetness while keeping the cake moist and delicious.
• Eggs – Help bind the ingredients and provide structure; beat until well combined.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor profile, making every slice irresistible.
• Whole Milk – Achieves the desired batter consistency; using whole milk is recommended for creaminess.
For the Crumb Topping
• Cold Butter – Must be cubed and cold to create a perfect crispy crumb topping.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor for a decadent crumb mixture.
• Cinnamon (for crumbs) – A touch in the crumb topping enhances the warmth and spice of this Pumpkin Crumb Cake.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Crumb Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and grease it thoroughly with butter or cooking spray. This step is crucial to prevent your Pumpkin Crumb Cake from sticking and ensures easy serving later.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and your warm spices—2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ginger, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves. Mixing these dry ingredients now will evenly distribute the flavors in your cake, setting a solid base for that scrumptious pumpkin flavor.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Pumpkin
In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together ½ cup of softened butter and 1 cup of pumpkin puree until they are well combined and fluffy. Next, add in 1 cup of granulated sugar, mixing until everything is fully incorporated. This mixture should be creamy and smooth, inviting you to continue on this delightful baking journey.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Now, crack in 2 large eggs and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the butter and pumpkin mixture. Beat everything together until the eggs are fully blended, creating a rich batter. This step is vital for binding your Pumpkin Crumb Cake together and enhancing its delightful flavor profile.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture from Step 2 into the pumpkin batter, alternating with ½ cup of whole milk. Start with dry ingredients, mix gently, and then pour in the milk, repeating until everything is combined. Mix just until no white flour remains; overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which we want to avoid!
Step 6: Prepare the Crumb Topping
For the crumb topping, in a separate bowl, combine ½ cup of cold, cubed butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, 1 cup of flour, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step will create that delicious crunchy topping we all adore on our Pumpkin Crumb Cake.
Step 7: Layer the Batter and Crumbs
Now it’s time to assemble. Pour half of the pumpkin batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the crumb topping mixture over the batter, followed by pouring the remaining pumpkin batter on top. Finish by adding the rest of the crumbs. This layering technique ensures a perfect blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the assembled Pumpkin Crumb Cake into the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is done! The perfect baking time will make your kitchen smell heavenly and fill your home with cozy aromas.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, carefully remove the pumpkin cake from the oven and let it cool in the dish for about 10-15 minutes. Allowing it to cool slightly will make for easier slicing. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, and consider pairing it with whipped cream for a heavenly touch!
Pumpkin Crumb Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and tailor your Pumpkin Crumb Cake to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Applesauce Substitute: Replace pumpkin puree with applesauce for a unique twist that adds natural sweetness. The cake still remains moist and flavorful, while offering a lighter profile.
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Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and richness. This nutty addition pairs beautifully with the spices, creating a delightful texture that elevates each slice.
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Chocolate Lovers: Stir in semisweet chocolate chips for pockets of melted chocolate throughout the cake. The combination of spiced pumpkin and rich chocolate is a heavenly match that will have dessert lovers swooning.
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Dairy-Free Option: Swap the butter for coconut oil and use almond milk in place of whole milk. The result is a tender cake that fits seamlessly into a dairy-free lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
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Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well for baking. This variation ensures everyone can enjoy a slice of this comforting cake.
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Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. This unexpected twist brings a welcomed heat to the warm, spiced flavors of the cake.
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Cranberry Surprise: Fold in dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and chewiness. These fruits balance the spices and pumpkin, contributing a delightful fruity burst with every bite.
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A Sweet Drizzle: Top with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk before serving for extra sweetness. This finishing touch adds a festive flair, perfect for gatherings!
Embrace these variations for a new adventure every time you bake! And if you’re looking for more pumpkin-spiced treats, consider indulging in our Pumpkin Spice Gooey or the cozy Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin for an autumn-inspired feast!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Crumb Cake
Room Temperature: Keep at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to extend its shelf life, store in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: Wrap the Pumpkin Crumb Cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, just pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or heat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Make Ahead Options
This Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy its delightful flavors with ease. You can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply mix all the wet ingredients and dry ingredients separately, then combine them just before baking to keep the cake fluffy and fresh. Additionally, the crumb topping can be assembled ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, layer the batter and crumbs, and pop it in the oven for a cozy, homemade dessert or breakfast treat that tastes just as delicious as the day it was made!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Crumb Cake
Perfectly Measure Flour: Use the spoon and level method to avoid compacting the flour, ensuring a light and fluffy Pumpkin Crumb Cake.
Don’t Overmix: Gently mix the batter until just combined to maintain moisture and fluffiness; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
Cool Before Slicing: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes to make slicing easier and to prevent it from falling apart.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for smooth mixing and proper batter consistency.
Customize Your Crumbs: Feel free to add toasted nuts or chocolate chips to the crumb topping for an extra delicious twist on this Pumpkin Crumb Cake.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Crumb Cake
Delightful pairings can enhance your cozy experience and create the perfect meal around this inviting treat.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries, apples, and citrus adds freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
- Spiced Chai Latte: This warm, spiced drink complements the cake’s flavors beautifully, making each sip a comforting treat.
- Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of vanilla yogurt paired with the moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake offers a creamy contrast and a hint of tang.
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple glaze over the cake for an additional layer of sweetness that resonates with autumn vibes.
- Candied Pecans: Toasted and sweetened nuts provide a crunchy contrast to the soft cake, creating a delightful textural experience.
- Hot Chocolate: Rich, velvety hot chocolate enhances the warmth of the spices in the cake, perfect for chilly evenings.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully on warm slices, adding a creamy richness to every bite.
Pumpkin Crumb Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use canned 100% pure pumpkin puree. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can alter the cake’s taste. If you have fresh pumpkins, you can roast and puree them, but the canned variety saves time and gives consistent results.
How should I store the Pumpkin Crumb Cake?
To keep your Pumpkin Crumb Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out!
Can I freeze Pumpkin Crumb Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This will prevent freezer burn and keep it delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What if my Pumpkin Crumb Cake is too dense?
If your cake comes out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or too much flour. To prevent this, mix the batter just until combined and use the spoon and level method for measuring flour. If the texture is still off, consider reducing the flour by a couple of tablespoons next time.
Is this Pumpkin Crumb Cake safe for pets?
While the ingredients in Pumpkin Crumb Cake are safe for most humans, it’s best to avoid giving it to pets, especially dogs and cats. Sweeteners and spices can be harmful. If you want to treat your pets with pumpkin, offer plain canned pumpkin in moderation instead!
Irresistibly Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In another bowl, beat together butter and pumpkin until fluffy. Add sugar and mix until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla to the mixture and blend until well-combined.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients into wet ingredients, alternating with milk, until mixed.
- Make the crumb topping by mixing cold butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until crumbly.
- Layer half of the batter in the prepared dish, top with half of the crumbs, add remaining batter, and finish with crumbs.
- Bake for 45 to 55 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for 10-15 minutes.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, possibly with whipped cream.
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