Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is the ultimate fall treat, offering a moist and tender pumpkin-flavored base topped with a crunchy, cinnamon-scented crumb topping. It's a simple yet satisfying dessert that celebrates the cozy flavors of the season. Whether you're hosting a fall gathering or just craving a sweet treat, this crumb cake is sure to please.

INGREDIENTS

• All-purpose flour (for cake): 1 1/2 cups, providing structure to the cake
• Pumpkin puree: 1 cup, adding moisture and flavor
• Sugar: 1/2 cup, for sweetness
• Brown sugar (for cake): 1/2 cup, packed, for rich sweetness
• Vegetable oil: 1/3 cup, keeping the cake moist
• Large eggs: 2, for binding the ingredients
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for added flavor
• Baking powder: 1 tsp, to help the cake rise
• Baking soda: 1 tsp, for leavening
• Pumpkin spice: 1 tsp, for warm fall flavor
• Salt: 1/4 tsp, to balance the sweetness
• All-purpose flour (for crumb topping): 1 cup, for a crumbly texture
• Brown sugar (for topping): 1/2 cup, packed, for richness
• Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup, adding a bit of crunch
• Cinnamon: 1 tsp, for flavoring the crumb topping
• Unsalted butter (melted): 1/4 cup, for binding the crumb topping

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.

Step 3:

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin spice, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 4:

For the crumb topping, mix together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until crumbly.

Step 5:

Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter.

Step 6:

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve this cake warm for the best crumb texture and flavor. It pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Helpful Notes

• For a little extra texture, you can add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping.
• Make sure not to overmix the cake batter to avoid a dense texture.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Many bakers recommend adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the pumpkin spice for a deeper flavor.

Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake offers the perfect balance of moist, spiced cake and crunchy topping. It’s an easy fall recipe that’s ideal for serving at brunch, dessert, or even as a snack. The crumb topping provides a satisfying contrast to the tender cake, making every bite a delicious combination of textures and flavors. With the addition of pumpkin spice, this cake embodies everything you love about autumn baking.

Ways to Customize Your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Try adding chocolate chips to the cake batter for a chocolatey twist, or use a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for added sweetness. If you enjoy a stronger spice flavor, increase the amount of cinnamon in the crumb topping or mix in other warm spices like cloves or allspice.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but make sure it’s well-drained to avoid making the cake too moist.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container.

What if I don't have pumpkin spice?

If you don’t have pumpkin spice, you can create your own mix using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter in the crumb topping with a dairy-free alternative to make it suitable for a dairy-free diet.

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Conclusion

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is a delicious fall dessert or snack that's easy to make and packed with warm, seasonal flavors. The cake is soft and moist, thanks to the pumpkin puree, and is spiced with classic pumpkin pie spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The real star, however, is the crumb topping—a mix of brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter that creates a crunchy, sweet layer over the tender cake. This crumb cake is perfect for cozy afternoons, holiday gatherings, or simply as a treat to enjoy with your favorite hot beverage. It pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a warm glass of apple cider. Serve it warm from the oven for maximum enjoyment, or store it for up to three days for a tasty snack whenever the craving hits.