Name: Moist Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Irresistible Streusel Topping
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (For a lighter texture, substitute with cake flour.); 1 cup Brown sugar (Adds moisture and sweetness.); 1 cup Granulated sugar (Contributes to a tender crumb.); 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Delivers warmth.); 1 teaspoon Pumpkin pie spice (Signature seasonal flavor.); 1/2 cup Butter (Use cold, chopped into pieces.); 1/2 cup Vegetable oil (Keeps the cake moist.); 1 cup Pumpkin puree (Ensure it's pure pumpkin.); 2 large Eggs (At room temperature.); 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract (Elevates all flavors.); 3 cups All-purpose flour (For a crumbly texture.); 1/2 cup Brown sugar (Enhances flavor.); 1/2 cup Granulated sugar (Creates a golden topping.); 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (Balances flavors.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Perfectly complements pumpkin.); 1/2 cup Butter (Melted for crumbly topping.); 1 cup Powdered sugar (Sweetens the glaze.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Adds richness.); 2-4 tablespoons Milk (Adjust for consistency.)

As the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg swirls through my kitchen, I’m transported to crisp autumn days where everything feels cozy and warm. This is precisely the vibe you’ll get from my Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Generous Streusel Topping. It’s a delightful twist on a traditional coffee cake, layered with a luscious blend of pumpkin flavor and topped with a crunchy, buttery streusel that adds just the right amount of texture. One of the best parts? This cake is not only a perfect pick for brunch gatherings but also a quick-prep recipe that guarantees satisfied smiles all around. It’s the kind of treat that beckons family and friends to slow down and enjoy, ideally with a steaming cup of coffee in hand. Are you ready to fill your home with the comforting scents of fall? Let’s get baking!

Why is Pumpkin Coffee Cake a Must-Try?

Warm, Inviting Flavors: Infused with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this cake brings the essence of fall right into your kitchen.

Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready in no time—perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.

Generously Layered: The combination of fluffy pumpkin cake and crunchy streusel topping creates a harmonious balance of texture, making each slice irresistible.

Versatile Delight: Whether for brunch or dessert, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead Friendly: This cake can be stored for days or even frozen, ensuring you have a sweet treat ready whenever the craving strikes. For another sweet indulgence, check out my Coffee Cheesecake Indulge that’s equally delightful!

Pumpkin Coffee Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cake; for a lighter texture, substitute with cake flour.
• Brown sugar – Adds moisture and sweetness thanks to its molasses content.
• Granulated sugar – Enhances sweetness and contributes to a tender crumb.
• Kosher salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Cinnamon – Delivers warmth and a classic fall spice sensation.
• Pumpkin pie spice – A delightful blend of spices to give that signature seasonal flavor.
• Butter (for batter) – Adds richness; use cold butter chopped into pieces for easy incorporation.
• Vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender; olive oil is a suitable alternative.
• Pumpkin puree – Infuses the cake with luscious pumpkin flavor; ensure you use pure pumpkin, not the spiced pie filling.
• Eggs – Provide necessary structure and moisture; make sure they’re at room temperature for better mixing.
• Vanilla extract – Elevates all flavors for a more delightful taste experience.

For the Streusel Topping
• All-purpose flour – For a crumbly texture; gives a lovely crunch to the topping.
• Brown sugar – Adds sweetness to the streusel, enhancing its rich flavor.
• Granulated sugar – Helps create a sweet, golden topping when baked.
• Kosher salt – Essential for balancing flavors in the streusel.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth, perfectly complementing the pumpkin flavor.
• Butter (melted) – A key ingredient for creating that irresistible crumbly topping.

For the Glaze
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze and provides a smooth finish; adjust consistency with milk as needed.
• Vanilla extract – Adds richness and a hint of sweetness to the glaze.
• Milk – Adjusts the thickness of the glaze; use more for a thinner pour or less for a thicker drizzle.

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is sure to tempt everyone at your next gathering or cozy brunch!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease a 9×13-inch pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking later. Ensure it’s evenly coated so the Pumpkin Coffee Cake releases effortlessly once baked.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, both sugars, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir these dry ingredients to blend well, then gradually drizzle in melted butter. Mix with a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set this delicious streusel topping aside as it will add a delightful crunch.

Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients for the Cake
In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. This mixture forms the foundation of your Pumpkin Coffee Cake, ensuring a flavorful base for all the warm spices as they meld together during baking.

Step 4: Incorporate Butter and Pumpkin Puree
Add chunks of cold butter and pumpkin puree to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the butter is fully incorporated, creating a thick and doughy texture. This step is crucial as it helps retain moisture and flavor in the Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the remaining pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth, ensuring the ingredients are fully blended. Gradually pour this mixture into the flour combination you prepared earlier, gently folding to combine until just moistened to avoid over-mixing.

Step 6: Layer the Batter in the Pan
Spread 2 cups of the cake batter evenly in the bottom of the prepared pan, smoothing it out with a spatula. Next, generously sprinkle 1 cup of the streusel topping over the batter to create a delicious layer. Follow this with another layer of 2 cups of the remaining batter, ensuring it’s well-distributed, and finish with the remaining streusel on top.

Step 7: Bake the Cake
Place your layered Pumpkin Coffee Cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. After this initial baking time, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, proceed to the next step. If not, continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the toothpick test confirms it.

Step 8: Cool and Prepare the Glaze
Once baked to perfection, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by mixing softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a bowl until smooth. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle this sweet glaze over the top, adding an enticing finishing touch to your Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the Pumpkin Coffee Cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain its moistness and flavor.

Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped or in an airtight container to avoid drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, tightly wrap the cake in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slices in the microwave or oven for a cozy taste of fall.

What to Serve With Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Indulging in a slice of pumpkin coffee cake is a sheer delight, but pairing it with the right accompaniments elevates the experience.

Steaming Coffee: Rich and aromatic coffee complements the warm spices in the cake, making it a perfect pairing for brunch or an afternoon treat.
Spiced Chai Latte: This creamy, spiced drink mirrors the flavors of the coffee cake, creating a delightful synergy that comforts the soul.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad with apples and pears adds a crisp and juicy contrast to the moist cake texture. It brings brightness to the meal.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds silky sweetness, enhancing every bite of pumpkin goodness and adding that touch of indulgence.
Cinnamon Sugar Muffins: For those seeking a double treat, serving cinnamon sugar muffins alongside the cake creates a delicious theme of warm spices that everyone will love.
Milk or Cream: A glass of cold milk or cream enriches the cake’s flavors and balances its sweetness, perfect for an afternoon snack.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: For those with a sweet tooth, a warm caramel sauce drizzled on top of the cake enhances its richness and creates a delectable dessert experience.
Pecans or Walnuts: Toasted nuts sprinkled atop the coffee cake add a crisp crunch and deepen the nutty flavors, creating a lovely contrast with its softness.

Serve any of these delightful additions to enjoy a full experience bursting with cozy, seasonal flavors alongside your scrumptious pumpkin coffee cake!

Pumpkin Coffee Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this Pumpkin Coffee Cake your own and bring even more cozy flavors to your table.

Nutty Additions: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for extra crunch and heartiness. The nuts add that wonderful fall element that harmonizes beautifully with the pumpkin.
Applesauce Swap: Replace half of the pumpkin with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter, fruitier cake. This not only enhances the cake’s moisture but also adds a delightful layer of flavor.
Chocolate Delight: Mix in chocolate chips for a rich and decadent variation. The sweetness of the chocolate pairs splendidly with the warm spices, creating a cake that’s truly irresistible.
Spiced Variation: Try adding a touch of ginger or allspice to your mix for an exciting flavor twist. These warm spices will elevate your coffee cake, bringing an extra kick of fall comfort.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure to add a little extra moisture since gluten-free flours can be drier.
Dairy-Free Alternative: For a dairy-free cake, use coconut oil or avocado oil instead of butter and choose a non-dairy milk for the glaze. This keeps the flavor rich while catering to dietary needs.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top of the final layer for an unexpected sweet crunch. It creates a delightful crust that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Zesty Brightness: Add zest from an orange or lemon to the batter for a citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the cake. This twist is refreshing and elevates the overall flavor profile.

Feel inspired to customize your cake further? For another cozy treat, check out my Blueberry Crisp Cheesecake that’s sure to impress!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Coffee Cake layers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the streusel topping and cake batter separately up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the streusel in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch and refrigerate the batter in a covered bowl. For best results, allow the batter to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before layering it in the pan. When ready to bake, layer the batter and streusel as instructed, then pop it in the oven. Your Pumpkin Coffee Cake will come out just as delicious and fresh, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for pure pumpkin puree instead of pie filling for authentic flavor in your Pumpkin Coffee Cake.
Check Ingredients Temperature: Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into your batter, leading to a fluffier cake.
Avoid Over-Mixing: Mix the batter just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to a dense texture, so be gentle!
Perfect Streusel Texture: Use melted butter in your streusel topping to achieve that desired crumbly texture that enhances every slice.
Cool Before Glazing: Allow your Pumpkin Coffee Cake to cool completely before drizzling with glaze; it sets beautifully and enhances flavor.

Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin for your Pumpkin Coffee Cake, look for small to medium-sized pumpkins labeled “sugar” or “pie” pumpkins. They should feel firm, with a hard exterior, and have a rich, deep color. Avoid pumpkins with soft spots or blemishes, as they might not yield the best flavor or texture.

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Coffee Cake?
For how long can you keep this delicious cake fresh? You can store your Pumpkin Coffee Cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, simply place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. Make sure to keep it well-sealed to retain moisture!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Coffee Cake?
Yes, you can freeze your Pumpkin Coffee Cake! To do so, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm slices in the microwave or oven for a cozy, fresh taste.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your Pumpkin Coffee Cake turns out denser than expected, it might be due to over-mixing the batter. Always blend the ingredients just until combined. Ensure your butter is cold during mixing, and remember to use room temperature eggs for better incorporation. If you find it’s still too dense, adding a tablespoon of milk can help lighten the batter next time.

Is this Pumpkin Coffee Cake suitable for people with nut allergies?
While the recipe doesn’t contain nuts, it’s important to double-check all ingredient labels to ensure no cross-contamination occurs. If you’re serving guests with nut allergies, refrain from adding any nuts during preparation or as a topping. Always keep in mind that substitutions, like including nuts, should be clearly communicated.

How can I add more spice to the Pumpkin Coffee Cake?
If you’re a fan of warm spices, you can enrich your Pumpkin Coffee Cake by increasing the amounts of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice in the recipe. Alternatively, consider adding a dart of ground ginger or nutmeg for an extra flavor punch. Happy baking!