Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that is basically autumn in cake form. We’re talking Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake, and honestly, it’s like the best parts of a pumpkin spice latte and a comforting coffee cake had a delicious baby. What’s better than the pumpkin bread my grandma used to make? If you’re looking for a way to embrace the fall season, or just need a little something cozy to go with your morning coffee, this is it. The warm spices, the moist cake, the sweet glaze… I’m getting hungry just thinking about it! It’s so incredibly easy to throw together, too, which is a huge win in my book. If you can stir, you can make this, I promise!
What is Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake is, at its heart, a moist, tender cake infused with the warm and comforting flavors of pumpkin and autumnal spices. Think cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves – the gang’s all here! The “coffee cake” part comes from the fact that it’s traditionally served alongside a cup of coffee (though it’s equally amazing with tea, hot chocolate, or even just a glass of milk). Unlike some coffee cakes, this one usually has a sweet, streusel-like filling or a swirl of pumpkin spice goodness running through the center. And to top it all off (literally! What’s not to love about this dessert?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the best reasons to fall head over heels for this Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake? The pumpkin spice blend creates this warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. When you take that first bite, it’s pure comfort food. What I love about this is how easy it is to make. No fancy equipment or complicated techniques required. It’s so simple that even my kids can help out! Plus, it’s pretty budget-friendly. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. And it’s super versatile too. You can enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even as a cozy afternoon snack. If you like spice cake or apple crisp, you will adore this recipe. It’s become a fall staple in my house, and I have a feeling it will become one in you too!
How do I make pumpkin spice coffee cake?
Quick Overview
How do I make a pumpkin spice coffee cake? We’ll then create a delicious filling with pumpkin spice goodness. We will then layer these in a pan, swirl it together, and bake it until golden brown. Once it’s cooled, we’ll drizzle it with a sweet glaze. The best part? It’s so easy, you can easily whip it up on a weeknight.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 2 cups all-purpose flour: I always use unbleached for the best flavor. * 1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cake rise nicely. Make sure it’s fresh! A generous teaspoon for that warm, spicy flavor. * 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a touch of cozy warmth. What are some good pumpkin spice recipes? For sweetness, of course! * 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a lovely molasses flavor and keeps the cake moist. * 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Or canola oil, for a moist cake. Room temperature eggs incorporate best. * 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Adds a touch of warmth and enhances other flavors. * 1 cup pumpkin puree: Adds a touch of warmth and enhances the other flavors. Make sure it’s pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling! Canned is fine, but homemade is even better. * 1/2 cup buttermilk: This adds a lovely tang and keeps the cake tender. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk with lemon juice or vinegar.
For the Filling:
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Again, unbleached is my preference. * 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: For sweetness and a caramelly flavor. * 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances the brown sugar. * 2 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces: The cold butter is key for creating that crumbly texture. * 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: More cinnamon for extra spice! * 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Complements the cinnamon beautifully. * 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds a bit of crunch and nutty flavor. I sometimes skip this, but they are a nice addition.
For the Glaze:
* 1 cup powdered sugar: For that classic glaze sweetness. * 2-3 tablespoons milk: Start with 2 tablespoons and add more until you reach your desired consistency. * 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of flavor.
How do I follow step by step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
How do I make a cake? If you want to bake a cake, you can line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make it easy to lift it out after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and salt. Whisking is important to evenly distribute the baking soda and spices throughout the flour. How do I make a cake that rises properly?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the pumpkin puree. What’s the best way to make room temperature eggs? They emulsify better and create a smoother batter.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. What should I do if I overmix my cake? If you overmix, the gluten in the flour will develop too much, leading to a dense, chewy cake instead of a light and tender one. I always do this by hand just to avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cold butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts. What makes a good streusel is cold butter. It creates those little pockets of fat that melt during baking, resulting in a crumbly topping.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
The filling should be evenly distributed over the cake batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the filling into the batter. Don’t over swirl, or the filling will just sink to the bottom. A few gentle swirls are all you need. I like to create a marbled effect for a pretty presentation.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil. If a skewer comes out clean, it’s done! This ensures that the cake is fully baked and not mushy in the middle.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. I like to use a spoon or a small whisk to drizzle the glaze over the top. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
What is the best way to serve Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake at room temperature? I love to dust it with a little extra powdered sugar for a pretty presentation. It’s also delicious with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
What should I serve it with?
How do I make a Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?For Breakfast:I like to add cinnamon to my coffee to complement the flavors in the cake. Is it a good idea to serve it on a plate with a dusting of powdered sugar?For Brunch: Serve it alongside other brunch favorites like scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit. Offer a variety of beverages, such as mimosas, orange juice, and iced coffee. Arrange the cake on a platter with a variety of toppings, such as whipped cream, fresh berries, and chocolate shavings.
As Dessert:Enjoy it after dinner with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Offer a selection of dessert wines or liqueurs to complement the flavors of the cake. Serve on a dessert plate with a sprig of mint or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant presentation.For Cozy Snacks:I like to serve a slice of cake with a cup of tea or hot chocolate on a chilly afternoon. I like to add a sprinkle of marshmallows to my hot chocolate. Serve it on a small plate with a napkin and a cozy mug.
How do I make a Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?
How do I make a Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?Mixing Advice:Do not overmix the batter. This will result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined. If you overmix, the gluten in the flour will develop too much, leading to a dense, chewy cake instead of a light and tender one.Swirl Customization: SHow do you create a swirl pattern? Use a knife or skewer to create different designs. Add a few drops of food coloring to the filling for a more colorful swirl. I like to use a toothpick for a more intricate pattern.Ingredient Swaps:What are some good nuts to add to a batter? I once added a handful of dried cranberries to the batter and it was a hit!Baking Tips:If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil. Always test for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center of the cake.Glaze Variations:What are some ways to add cinnamon to a glaze? I sometimes add a splash of bourbon to the glaze for a grown-up treat. It’s divine!Butter temp: Make sure to use very cold butter for the crumb topping. I even sometimes stick it in the freezer for 10 minutes before cutting it in. This will give you a much better crumble.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
How do you keep your pumpkin spice cake fresh and delicious?Room Temperature:How do I store a cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days?Refrigerator Storage: How do IHow do I store a cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days?How do I use a freezer Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Let the cake thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What is Glaze Timing?If you’re planning to freeze the cake, it’s best to wait to glaze it until it has thawed. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or soggy. Is it easier to freeze before glazing?
What are the most frequently asked questions on Quora
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake is a recipe that brings joy. Every time I bake it, the warm aroma fills my home and everyone comes running to the kitchen. I hope this becomes a cherished recipe in your family, just like it is in mine. If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy my Apple Crumble or spice cake recipe. They’re both equally delicious and comforting! What do you think of my new recipe?
