Pumpkin Streusel Coffee Cake Recipe

Pumpkin Streusel Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that combines the moist, spiced goodness of pumpkin with a buttery streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, this cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Its warm fall flavors make it a seasonal favorite, but it’s delicious enough to enjoy year-round.

Ingredients

Cake Batter:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk

Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
5. In a small bowl, prepare the streusel topping by mixing the flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the batter.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Servings: 9 slices

Variations

1. Nutty Streusel: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping for added crunch.
2. Spiced Twist: Incorporate ground ginger or cloves into the batter for a more complex spice profile.
3. Glaze Finish: Drizzle the cooled cake with a simple vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Chocolate Addition: Mix mini chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet contrast to the spices.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy them fresh and moist.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
   Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly. Avoid using pumpkin pie filling as it contains additional sweeteners and spices.
2. What if I don’t have nutmeg?
   You can substitute nutmeg with an equal amount of allspice or simply increase the cinnamon slightly.
3. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely! Use a 9×13 inch pan and adjust the baking time to about 40-45 minutes.
4. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
   Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.
5. How do I know when the cake is done?
   Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
6. Can I use non-dairy milk?
   Yes, almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can replace regular milk.
7. What can I serve with this coffee cake?
   It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
8. Can I omit the streusel topping?
   The streusel adds texture and flavor, but you can skip it if desired. The cake will still be delicious.
9. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
   It’s best to bake the batter immediately, but you can refrigerate it for a few hours before baking if needed.
10. How can I make the cake moister?
    Ensure you don’t overmix the batter, and measure ingredients accurately. Adding a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt can also boost moisture.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Streusel Coffee Cake is a simple yet satisfying recipe that brings together the warm spices of fall with a crumbly, buttery topping. Whether served as a cozy morning indulgence or a dessert for guests, this coffee cake is sure to impress. With its adaptability and rich flavor, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your rotation for all occasions. Enjoy baking and savoring this delightful treat!

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