Pumpkin Streusel Coffee Cake Easy and Delicious Recipe

Are you ready to bake something special? This Pumpkin Streusel Coffee Cake is both easy and delicious. With warm spices and a sweet streusel topping, this cake is perfect for any occasion. You’ll find simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions to guide you. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro in the kitchen, this recipe will impress your friends and family. Let’s get started on this tasty fall treat!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
– ½ teaspoon salt
I start with all-purpose flour, which gives the cake its structure. Baking powder and baking soda help it rise. The spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—add warmth and flavor.
Sweeteners and Fats
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup brown sugar for streusel
Granulated sugar sweetens the cake. Unsalted butter creates a rich texture. Brown sugar in the streusel adds a nice, caramel-like taste and crunch.
Additional Ingredients
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Pumpkin puree keeps the cake moist and adds its unique flavor. Eggs bind everything and give it structure. You can add walnuts or pecans for crunch, but they are optional.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Pan
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step makes sure your cake bakes evenly. Next, get your 9×13 inch baking pan ready. Grease it with non-stick spray or softened butter. This helps the cake come out easily after baking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, add 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Then, mix in 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger. Use a whisk to blend these dry ingredients well. This helps to spread the flavors throughout the cake.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this step. Beat them together until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Properly creamed butter and sugar help give your cake a great texture.
Integrating Wet Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add 1 cup of pumpkin puree to the creamed mixture. Mix until it’s fully combined. After that, add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Make sure to beat well after each egg. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will add a lovely aroma to your batter.
Combining Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture. Mix gently just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cake tough. If you want to add nuts, like ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans, now is the time to fold them in.
Creating and Adding the Streusel Topping
For the streusel topping, mix together ½ cup of packed brown sugar, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Pour in ¼ cup of melted butter and ¼ cup of rolled oats. Use a fork or your fingers to combine until it looks like coarse sand. This will give your cake a nice crunchy topping. Evenly sprinkle the streusel over the batter in the pan.
Baking the Cake
Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. After baking, cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get a soft and moist cake, don’t overmix the batter. When you add the dry mix to the wet mix, stir gently. Just bring them together until it’s smooth. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture. That’s not what we want!
Flavor Enhancement
Want to boost the flavor? Try adding more spices! A pinch of allspice or cloves can add warmth. You can also add a bit of vanilla extract to deepen the taste. Experiment and find what makes your taste buds dance!
Serving Suggestions
This coffee cake pairs perfectly with coffee. A warm cup of coffee enhances its flavors. You can also serve it with tea or even hot chocolate. It makes for a cozy treat during breakfast or afternoon snacks. Enjoy it fresh from the oven, or let it cool for a lovely dessert!
Variations
Nut-Free Option
To make this cake nut-free, swap nuts for seeds. Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds work great. Just chop them up a bit and add them to the batter. This keeps the cake crunchy and tasty while making it safe for those with nut allergies.
Glazed Version
If you want a sweet glaze, mix powdered sugar with a little milk. Start with 1 cup of powdered sugar and add 1-2 tablespoons of milk. Stir until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled cake for a nice finish. This adds a sweet touch that pairs well with the spices in the cake.
Seasonal Variations
Feel free to change the spices based on the season. For a winter twist, add some ground cloves or allspice. If you want to use a different squash, try butternut or acorn squash instead of pumpkin. These swaps give you a fresh take on the classic recipe while still keeping it delicious.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your pumpkin streusel coffee cake fresh, store it at room temperature. Place it in an airtight container to avoid drying out. If you plan to eat it within a few days, this method works great. For added freshness, you can also cover the cake with plastic wrap.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a good option. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, cut it into slices for easy serving. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy your cake for up to three months.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your cake again, reheating brings it back to life. You can use the microwave for quick results. Heat a slice for 15-20 seconds. For a crunchy topping, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), then bake the slice for about 10 minutes. This method warms the cake and keeps the streusel nice and crisp.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Start with a small pumpkin. Cut it in half and scoop out the seeds. Roast the halves in the oven until soft, about 45 minutes at 350°F. Let it cool, then scoop out the flesh. Blend it until smooth. This fresh puree can replace canned pumpkin in the recipe. It may have a lighter flavor, so adjust spices if needed.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. You can also gently press the top with your finger. It should spring back if it is baked. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the cake dry.
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Bake the cake and let it cool completely. Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, use unsweetened applesauce. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce for each egg. Another option is mashed banana or flaxseed meal. For flaxseed, mix 1 tablespoon with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes. These substitutes will keep the cake moist and tasty, but may change the flavor slightly.
This article covered the key ingredients for your pumpkin coffee cake, your step-by-step guide, and helpful tips. You learned how to combine flavors and textures for a delicious treat. Remember to follow the baking instructions closely for the best results. Enjoy experimenting with variations and storage tips to keep your cake fresh. With this knowledge, you can create a tasty dessert that impresses anyone. Happy baking!
