Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is a delightful treat filled with warm, cozy spices that make it perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it for dessert, a brunch gathering, or a cozy evening at home, this cake impresses with its moist texture and crunchy crumb topping. The blend of pumpkin and spices creates an inviting aroma that will fill your kitchen and warm your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this cake ready in no time.
• Perfect for Fall: The warm spices and pumpkin flavor capture the essence of autumn.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great as a dessert or snack, it can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe yields generous servings, making it ideal for gatherings or potlucks.
• Deliciously Moist: The combination of pumpkin puree and butter ensures every bite is soft and flavorful.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• 9 x 13 inch baking dish
• Pastry cutter (or fork)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when blending ingredients thoroughly.
• Pastry cutter: Helps achieve the perfect crumb texture by easily cutting in butter for the topping.
• Whisk: Ensures dry ingredients are well combined before mixing with wet ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 cups flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Pinch cloves
• 1 1/4 cups pumpkin puree
• ½ cup butter (room temperature)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 cup milk

For the Crumb Topping

• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed (1 stick)
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish to prepare for your batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
– Flour
– Baking powder
– Salt
– Cinnamon
– Ginger
– Nutmeg
– Cloves

This step ensures that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine:
– Butter
– Pumpkin puree

Beat them together until well mixed; it’s fine if not completely smooth. Then add:
– Granulated sugar
– Eggs
– Vanilla

Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with:
– Milk

Mix on low speed until no white remains in the batter. Set aside once combined.

Step 5: Make the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, mix together:
– Cold butter (cubed)
– Light brown sugar
– Flour
– Cinnamon
– Nutmeg

Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until small crumbs form.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared dish. Top with half of the crumb mixture. Add the remaining batter on top followed by the rest of the crumbs. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether it’s for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert after dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top your slice with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy contrast to the spiced cake.

Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the flavors and add creaminess.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for a sweet and sticky finish that complements the spices.

Paired with Hot Beverages

• Enjoy your cake with coffee, tea, or apple cider for a cozy fall experience.

As Breakfast Treats

• Slice into smaller squares for a quick breakfast option, perfect alongside your morning coffee.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

To ensure your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep the cake moist and fluffy; overmixing can lead to toughness.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.

• Cool Properly: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess.

• Store Correctly: Keep any leftovers tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

When serving Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake, pairing it with side dishes can elevate the overall experience. Here are some great options:

1. Chai Tea: The spiced flavors of chai complement the warm notes of pumpkin and cinnamon beautifully.

2. Apple Compote: A warm apple compote adds sweetness and a fruity contrast that pairs wonderfully with the crumb cake.

3. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a nice balance to the sweetness of the cake.

4. Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt offers a tangy element that enhances the richness of the cake.

5. Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal with a light pumpkin soup for a cohesive autumnal theme.

6. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette can lighten up the meal while adding crispness against the soft cake.

7. Cheese Plate: Include some mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an interesting flavor contrast.

8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich crumb cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the baking powder: Not adding enough baking powder can lead to a dense cake. Make sure to measure accurately.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can toughen the cake. Mix just until combined to keep it moist and fluffy.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can affect the batter’s consistency. Always bring them to room temperature before starting.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much or too little flour can change your cake’s texture. Use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different, so check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time. A toothpick should come out clean from the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep it covered with plastic wrap or foil for added moisture retention.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-cooked and blended smoothly.

How do I make a gluten-free version of Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What spices work well with Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

In addition to cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, you could add allspice or cardamom for extra flavor.

Can I customize the crumb topping?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or oats for an extra crunch in your crumb topping.

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate it for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

This delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Its combination of warm spices and moist texture makes it truly irresistible. Feel free to customize it with nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences!