As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s something magical about bringing a touch of fall into your kitchen. My Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Maple Glaze is a delightful way to celebrate the season, blending the comforting essence of pumpkin puree with a warm hug of spices. This recipe isn’t just about creating a moist, fluffy cake; it’s a simple, quick bake that will fill your home with an irresistible aroma, luring your family and friends to the kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for cozy morning gatherings or an afternoon pick-me-up with coffee. Are you ready to experience the taste of autumn? Let’s dive in!
Why is Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake a Must-Try?
Irresistible Aroma: Your kitchen will be filled with the cozy scent of warm spices and sweet pumpkin as this cake bakes.
Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, creating this treat is a breeze! You can even use a substitute like yogurt for sour cream.
Perfectly Moist: The pumpkin puree and sour cream work together to ensure every slice is moist and fluffy.
Versatile Delight: Whether you’re pairing it with your morning coffee or serving guests at a gathering, this cake is an instant crowd-pleaser.
Time-Saving Recipe: In under an hour, you can have a delicious and seasonal dessert ready to impress. For more delightful fall flavors, check out my Joumou Haitian Pumpkin Soup or try whipping up some Nutella Pancakes Blend for brunch!
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and flavor; substitute with homemade pumpkin puree if desired.
- Sour Cream – Adds tanginess for a moist texture; yogurt can work as a great substitute.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake while enhancing texture; brown sugar can deepen the flavor profile.
- Light Brown Sugar – Creates a caramel-like sweetness in the cake; dark brown sugar offers an extra molasses kick.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cake’s structure; feel free to use a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Baking Powder – Ensures the cake rises for a light, fluffy texture; check for freshness for best results.
- Baking Soda – Works with sour cream for leavening; avoid substitutions in this recipe.
- Fine Sea Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; kosher salt is a closer alternative.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses a warm, classic fall flavor; adjust to match your personal taste preference.
- Ground Ginger – Adds a zesty warmth to complement the pumpkin; feel free to tweak the amount based on your liking.
- Ground Nutmeg – Enhances the autumnal vibe of the cake; fresh nutmeg offers a more aromatic profile.
- Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake tender and moist; melted butter can give it a richer taste.
- Eggs – Bind ingredients together for structure; flax eggs are a useful vegan substitute.
For the Streusel Topping
- Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth; you can use granulated sugar as a standby.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the body of the streusel; ensure it’s mixed well for crumbly goodness.
- Pecans – Add a delightful crunch; walnuts or almonds are excellent alternatives for a nutty flavor.
- Cinnamon – Enhances the streusel flavor profile; adjust the quantity for your spice comfort level.
- Melted Butter – Binds the streusel ingredients; coconut oil is a great vegan-friendly option.
For the Maple Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze for a perfect finish; sift for a smoother texture.
- Maple Syrup – Adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin; feel free to substitute with agave syrup for a vegan version.
Dive into baking this delectable Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake, and let the comforting flavors of fall embrace your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure a perfectly baked Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake. While the oven warms up, grab an 8-inch square metal baking pan and spray it generously with non-stick spray. This will prevent the cake from sticking, allowing for an easy release once it’s baked.
Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping
In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, chopped pecans, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix with a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly. You’ll want to achieve a texture similar to coarse sand; this delightful streusel topping will add a delicious crunch to your cake.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, fine sea salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground nutmeg. This combination of dry ingredients is essential for your Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake, as it provides flavor and structure. Ensure everything is evenly mixed before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, sour cream, and beaten eggs. Stir these ingredients until they are well combined and smooth. This rich mixture will infuse your cake with moisture and flavor, setting the stage for a light and fluffy Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake.
Step 5: Blend Dry and Wet Mixtures
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredient mixture and pour in the wet blend. Using a spatula, gently stir the ingredients together until just combined—the batter should be slightly lumpy, which ensures moisture and prevents overmixing. Be careful not to overwork the batter, as this could affect the cake’s texture.
Step 6: Layer and Bake
Pour half of the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle half of the streusel topping over this layer. Carefully add the remaining batter on top, and finish with the rest of the streusel topping. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, remove the Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. While it cools, prepare your glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and maple syrup until smooth. Drizzle this sweet glaze over the warm cake before slicing it into squares, ready to be enjoyed by family and friends.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cakes are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients and create your streusel topping up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Additionally, the cake batter can be prepared the night before and kept in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to enjoy your cake, simply pour the batter into the pan, sprinkle with streusel, and bake as directed; it’ll be just as delicious! By prepping ahead, you’ll save precious time in the morning while still delighting in the comforting flavors of this autumn treat.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake
Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain its delicious moistness and flavor.
Fridge: If you live in a warmer climate, you may refrigerate the coffee cake for up to 1 week. Just make sure it’s wrapped well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: This Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight and reheat slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds for a warm, delightful treat.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise and texture in your Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake.
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Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. If it’s sticky, give it more time in the oven.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined to avoid a dense cake. Slight lumps are okay!
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Perfect Pan Choice: Opt for a light-colored metal pan for even baking; avoid dark pans as they can cause the edges to cook faster.
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Customization Options: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or other spices to the batter for a personal twist on this delicious coffee cake.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake
Imagine lounging on a crisp fall afternoon, savoring slices of moist cake alongside cozy, complementary flavors and drinks.
- Warm Spiced Cider: Offers a comforting, fruity balance to the rich spices in the cake, enhancing the autumn experience.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a delightful creaminess that perfectly contrasts the cake’s denser texture while providing a sweet finish.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits brings a refreshing zest, balancing the warming spices and adding a splash of color to your table.
- Hot Coffee: The classic pairing elevates flavors; a bold brew with hints of chocolate or caramel complements the pumpkin’s sweetness.
- Maple Glazed Pecans: Crunchy and sweet, these create a satisfying texture contrast, while amplifying the maple flavor found in the cake’s glaze.
- Pumpkin Ice Cream: A creamy, decadent dessert that embraces the fall theme, providing a rich and cool counterpart to the warm coffee cake.
- Chai Tea: Its spicy, herbal warmth syncs beautifully with the cake’s own spiced flavors; a cozy drink to enhance your afternoons.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A simple addition that adds richness and a touch of indulgence, perfect for those who crave a chocolate contrast.
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful cake your own with these fun twists!
- Nut-Free: Replace pecans in the streusel with oats for a crunchy, nut-free topping. This option remains satisfying and delicious!
- Apple & Cranberry: Fold in diced apples or dried cranberries to the batter for bursts of tartness that complement the pumpkin beautifully.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for an irresistible sweet surprise that elevates the cake to a whole new level.
- Spice it Up: Increase the amount of ground cinnamon and ginger, or even add a dash of allspice for an extra kick of warmth in every bite.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt and use a dairy-free butter alternative in the streusel for a deliciously inclusive treat!
- Maple Pecan Variation: Replace the regular streusel nuts with maple-soaked pecans for that extra layer of flavor that’s perfect for fall!
- Pumpkin Spice Swirl: Create a pumpkin spice cream cheese swirl by blending cream cheese with a bit of sugar and pumpkin spice mix, then swirl it through the batter before baking.
For those who love seasonal flavors, consider pairing this cake with a warm beverage while diving into other fall favorites like the cozy Strawberry Cheesecake or the delicious Easter Poke Cake. Your taste buds will thank you!
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought pumpkin puree or make your own by roasting fresh pumpkins. If you go for the fresh option, simply cut the pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, roast the halves at 400°F (200°C) until tender, then scoop out the flesh and blend until smooth. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate fall flavors!
How should I store the Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?
I recommend storing your pumpkin spice coffee cake covered at room temperature for up to 4 days, keeping it moist and ready to enjoy. If you live in a warm climate, wrapping it tightly and refrigerating it will allow it to last up to a week without losing its delicious texture.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake very successfully! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn, and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm it in the microwave for about 15 seconds for that freshly-baked feel.
What if my cake is too dense after baking?
Very good question! A dense pumpkin spice coffee cake can happen for a couple of reasons. Overmixing the batter is a common culprit, as this can lead to a tougher texture. Make sure to mix just until the ingredients are combined. Additionally, ensuring your baking powder and baking soda are fresh will help the cake rise beautifully!
Are there any dairy-free substitutions for the ingredients?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version of this recipe, you can substitute sour cream with unsweetened almond or coconut yogurt. You can also use non-dairy milk combined with a tablespoon of vinegar for the pumpkin puree mixture instead of eggs for added moisture.
Is this recipe safe for pets, like dogs?
While the ingredients in pumpkin spice coffee cake are generally safe for dogs (especially the pumpkin), you should always avoid sharing baked goods that contain sugar or other spices, like nutmeg, which can be harmful to pets. Stick to plain, cooked pumpkin for treats that are safe for your furry friends!
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake That'll Warm Your Fall Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch square metal baking pan with non-stick spray.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, chopped pecans, and cinnamon. Mix in melted butter until crumbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, fine sea salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, blend together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, sour cream, and beaten eggs until smooth.
- Gently fold the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle with half of the streusel topping. Add the remaining batter and top with the remaining streusel.
- Bake for approximately 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool for 15 minutes in the pan.
- Whisk together powdered sugar and maple syrup to create glaze. Drizzle over the warm cake and slice into squares.