Pumpkin Streusel Coffee Cake

Pumpkin Streusel Coffee Cake is a comforting dessert that embodies the flavors of fall. This moist cake is enriched with pumpkin and spices, topped with a crunchy streusel that adds texture and sweetness. Perfect for coffee breaks, brunch, or as a delightful dessert, this cake is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream

For the Streusel Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In another bowl, cream the butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix in the sour cream until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
3. Make the Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans if using.
4. Assemble the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Optional Glaze: If desired, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a glaze. Drizzle over the cooled cake.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. The prep time is about 20 minutes, while the cooking time is between 35-40 minutes. Including cooling time, the total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Variations

• Nut-Free: Omit the pecans from the streusel topping for a nut-free cake.
• Add Chocolate: Fold in chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious twist.
• Spiced Version: Add ginger or cloves for extra spice flavor.
• Frosting Option: Instead of glaze, top with cream cheese frosting for a richer dessert.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
   Yes, fresh pumpkin puree can be used, but ensure it is well-drained.
2. What if I don’t have sour cream?
   You can substitute with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar texture.
3. How can I tell when the cake is done?
   A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
4. Can I make this cake in advance?
   Yes, the cake can be made a day ahead; just store it covered at room temperature.
5. What if my streusel is too crumbly?
   If it crumbles too much, add a little more butter until you reach the desired consistency.
6. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
7. What’s the best way to cool the cake?
   Allow it to cool in the pan for a short time before transferring it to a wire rack.
8. Can I freeze the cake?
   Yes, the cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
9. What can I serve with this cake?
   This cake pairs well with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
10. How should I store the leftover cake?
    Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Streusel Coffee Cake is a delightful, spiced treat that is sure to warm your home and satisfy your taste buds. With its moist texture and crunchy topping, it’s perfect for any occasion or simply enjoyed with a cup of coffee. Embrace the flavors of fall and treat yourself to this delicious cake!

Print