As the leaves begin to change and the air grows brisk, the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the cozy corners of our homes, welcoming the glorious essence of fall. One recipe that truly captures this spirit is our Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake. This delightful treat combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices with a buttery crumb topping, creating a perfect balance of texture and taste. Imagine enjoying this warm, comforting cake during a lazy Sunday morning, or serving it as a sweet conclusion to your dinner gatherings. It’s a slice of seasonal bliss that everyone will love.

What makes this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake even more irresistible is its simplicity. Whether you’re a veteran baker or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll find that its preparation is straightforward and rewarding. Filled with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, the cake is infused with the warm, cozy flavors we all associate with autumn. And let’s not forget the finishing touch—a sweet vanilla icing drizzle that adds a delicious final note to each bite. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience for the senses.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

Flavorful Delight: A perfect mixture of pumpkin and spices creates a rich flavor profile that delights the palate.
Simple Preparation: Easy to follow steps make baking a pleasure, not a chore.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or as a sweet snack any time of the day.
Perfect for Fall: Captures the essence of autumn with every scrumptious bite.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you embark on baking this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when the batter is ready, the cake can start baking immediately, maintaining its fluffy texture.

Next, grease your chosen baking pan—a 9×9 or 9×13-inch pan works perfectly for this cake. A quality spatula will come in handy for mixing and spreading the batter, while a whisk will help you combine the ingredients smoothly. Having measuring cups and spoons at the ready will ensure that your ingredients are measured accurately for the best results. Lastly, keep a cooling rack nearby; once your cake is out of the oven, it needs to cool properly to achieve that crumbly perfection.

Ingredients

For the Crumb Topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp fine salt
½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
3 tsp baking powder
1 tsp fine salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves
1¼ cups pumpkin purée
½ cup vegetable oil
2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk or milk (room temperature)

For the Vanilla Icing:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
¼ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crumb Topping

First, start by preparing the crumb topping for your cake, as this will allow the flavors to meld while you work on the batter. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of packed light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of fine salt. These dry ingredients create a perfectly spiced crumb mix.

Next, take your cold unsalted butter, cut it into small cubes, and add it to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This crumb topping can be set aside, as you’ll add it to the cake later.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of fine salt, and your chosen spices, including 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves. This blend will give your cake an aromatic lift.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1¼ cups of pumpkin purée, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 2 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Each component contributes to the cake’s moist texture, ensuring it is decadent and satisfying.

Now, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Follow this by incorporating 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, which will enhance the flavor of the pumpkin. Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture to this wet batter in three portions, alternating with additions of 1 cup of buttermilk or milk in two parts. This method helps to maintain a uniform texture without overmixing the batter.

Once combined, pour the batter into your greased baking pan and spread it out evenly. Now, take the crumb mixture you prepared and sprinkle it over the top. Gently press it down to ensure it adheres to the batter for that perfect crumb layer.

Step 3: Baking the Cake

It’s now time to bake! Place your pan in the preheated oven. If you’re using a 9×9-inch pan, the baking time will be around 30–35 minutes, while a 9×13-inch pan will typically take 20–25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, you know it’s ready. The cake will rise beautifully and turn a lovely golden-brown color.

Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan. This cooling period helps the cake set, making it easier to serve.

Step 4: Adding the Glaze

While your cake cools, prepare the sweet vanilla icing for that final touch. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract until achieving a smooth consistency. It should be thick enough to drizzle but still pourable.

Once your cake has cooled a bit, drizzle this creamy icing generously over the top, allowing it to seep into the crumb topping for added sweetness. Slice your cake into squares and serve it warm for a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of fall.

Variations

Protein: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for an extra crunch or richness.
Vegetables: Mix in 1 cup of grated carrots or zucchini for added moisture and nutrition.
Spices: Experiment with adding a pinch of allspice or cardamom for a unique flavor twist.

Cooking Notes

Ensure the butter is ice-cold to achieve the perfect crumbly topping.
Room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and buttermilk, help create a smoother batter.
This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days, remaining moist and delicious.
Consider freezing leftover pieces; it freezes well for later enjoyment!

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Pair with a cup of spiced chai or coffee for a cozy morning treat.

Tips

Always measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off for precise baking.
If you notice your icing is too thick, add a little more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
For added appeal, garnish your cake with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the icing.
To check your cake’s doneness accurately, use a toothpick or cake tester; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350 per slice
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 250mg

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just ensure it’s well-cooked and blended smoothly.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep any leftover pumpkin spice crumb cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.

Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

Conclusion

As the leaves fall, there’s nothing better than indulging in a slice of this Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake. Its soft, spiced pumpkin base coated with a crispy crumb topping and finished with a delicious vanilla glaze will warm your heart and home. This recipe is not just a dessert; it embodies autumn’s essence in every bite. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, a weekend breakfast treat, or an afternoon snack with friends, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments or try your own variations—this cake is a canvas for creativity! So, gather the ingredients and start baking; you’re in for a delightful fall experience!