Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is the perfect dessert to celebrate fall! With its rich blend of spices and a delightful crumb topping, it’s sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or bringing a treat to a potluck, this cake offers warmth and comfort in every bite. Plus, its moist texture and aromatic flavors make it a standout choice for seasonal celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates an inviting taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or an afternoon snack, this cake fits right in.
• Crowd-Pleasing: With 20 servings, you can share this delightful treat with friends and family.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain or dress it up with whipped cream or ice cream.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake, gather your tools for a smooth preparation process. Having everything ready will make your baking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Baking dish (9 x 13 inch)
• Whisk
• Pastry cutter or fingers for crumb mixture

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort while ensuring your batter is well combined.
• Mixing bowls: Different sizes help keep ingredients organized during the mixing process.
• Baking dish: A 9 x 13 inch dish provides the perfect size for this cake, promoting even baking.

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 the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease your 9 x 13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. 2 cups flour
2. 3 teaspoons baking powder
3. 1 teaspoon salt
4. 1 teaspoon cinnamon
5. 1/2 teaspoon ginger
6. 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
7. A pinch of cloves

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of your electric mixer:
1. Beat together the room temperature butter and pumpkin puree until well mixed, though not completely smooth.
2. Add in the granulated sugar and mix until combined.
3. Incorporate the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with:
– 1 cup of milk each time until fully combined.

Step 5: Make the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl:
– Combine cubed cold butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
– Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until small crumbs form.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour half of the pumpkin batter into your prepared baking dish:
– Layer half of the crumb mixture over it.
– Pour in the remaining batter followed by another layer of crumbs on top.
Bake for about 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool before serving!

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this cake pairs beautifully with numerous accompaniments.

With Coffee

• A warm slice of Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake goes perfectly with a steaming cup of coffee. The rich flavors enhance each bite, making it an ideal morning or afternoon snack.

Topped with Cream Cheese Frosting

• For an extra indulgent experience, add a dollop of cream cheese frosting on top. The tangy sweetness complements the spices in the cake remarkably well.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful contrast to the dense crumb cake. Serve it on the side or dolloped on top for added richness.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• Pairing your crumb cake with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream creates a comforting dessert. The cold ice cream melts slightly into the warm cake for a delightful treat.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor. This simple addition elevates the texture and taste of each slice.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

To ensure your Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake turns out moist and flavorful, consider these tips.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your crumb cake. Consider grinding cinnamon and nutmeg yourself for the best taste.

• Check your baking powder: Make sure your baking powder is fresh and active; otherwise, your cake may not rise properly.

• Avoid overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the crumb cake tender and light.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes helps prevent it from becoming too crumbly when you cut into it.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like butter and eggs mix better when they’re at room temperature, leading to an even texture throughout the cake.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some suggestions:

1. Chai Tea: This spiced tea complements the warm flavors of pumpkin spice beautifully, creating a cozy pairing.
2. Apple Cider: A glass of chilled apple cider brings out the fall essence in pumpkin spice while providing refreshing contrast.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds brightness to your meal without overpowering the crumb cake.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit offers a healthy balance alongside slices of rich pumpkin spice cake.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide varying textures and flavors that work well with the sweet notes of the cake.
6. Roasted Vegetables: For a savory option, serve roasted vegetables as a side dish to balance the sweetness of the crumb cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake, a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake. Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can make the cake dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and no dry spots remain.
• Skipping the crumb topping: The crumb topping adds essential flavor and texture. Don’t skip it; it’s vital for that signature crunch.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Baking for too short or too long can ruin your cake. Check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

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. Be sure to cook and blend it until smooth.

How do I make this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake gluten-free?

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

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can mix in walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter for extra flavor.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family dessert nights. Its warm spices and moist texture make it irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite nuts or even a drizzle of icing on top! Give it a try and enjoy this delightful treat!