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Autumn is here, and that means it’s time to indulge in the warm, inviting flavors of the season! I discovered this delightful Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Filling that wraps you in a cozy embrace with every bite. The tender, spiced cake, layered with rich cream cheese filling, is a true showstopper for any gathering or simply a leisurely afternoon treat. With its simple preparation and impressive crowd-pleasing appeal, this recipe caters to everyone’s cravings while being an adaptable option for those seeking a dairy-free delight. So why not bring the essence of fall to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this irresistible sweet that’s bound to be a new favorite!
Why is Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake a Must-Try?
Comforting Flavor: Every slice bursts with warm, cozy spices, perfectly embodying the essence of autumn. The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice envelops your taste buds in seasonal bliss.
Decadent Filling: The creamy cream cheese filling adds a delightful contrast to the spiced cake, making each bite irresistibly special.
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Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels, ensuring you can whip up this festive treat with ease.
Versatile Options: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, this cake pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or a spiced chai latte. Check out our Ding Dong Cake for another cream-filled dessert option!
Dairy-Free Adaptation: Accommodate all dietary preferences by easily adapting this recipe for a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
Bring the joy of fall to your home with this crowd-pleasing Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake that’s not just a treat, but a true celebration of the season!
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Ingredients
• Discover the essential components for a perfect cake!
For the Cake
- Sugar – Sweetens the cake; coconut sugar is a great substitute for added depth.
- Brown Sugar – Adds moisture; feel free to replace with white sugar if needed.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; kosher or sea salt works best for this recipe.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; swap for a gluten-free blend if necessary.
- Butter – Adds richness; unsalted margarine is a good alternative.
- Pumpkin Spice – Infuses seasonal flavor; individual spices like cinnamon and nutmeg can be used as substitutes.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; always check for freshness to ensure a great rise.
- Eggs – Contributes to structure and moisture; flax eggs can be used for a vegan option.
- Sour Cream – Adds moisture and tang; substitute with plain Greek yogurt if desired.
- Pumpkin Puree – Essential for moisture and flavor; use 100% pure pumpkin or homemade puree.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; almond extract is a delightful substitute.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- Cream Cheese – Provides creaminess; opt for vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese filling; consider monk fruit sweetener for a lower-sugar option.
For the Drizzle
- Milk – Used in the drizzle; replace with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free adaptation.
Get ready to create mouthwatering Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake that will fill your home with the irresistible aroma of autumn!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
Step 1: Prepare the Crumble
In a medium bowl, combine your crumble ingredients, mixing until they resemble coarse crumbs. Refrigerate this mixture for at least 30 minutes to help it set up nicely, giving your Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake a delightful crunchy topping once baked.
Step 2: Make Dry Mixture
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice in a large bowl. This dry mixture creates the foundational structure of your cake, ensuring an even blend and allowing the aromatic spices to infuse the batter beautifully as you prepare for the next steps.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until fluffy, then gradually incorporate the granulated sugar, brown sugar, softened butter, sour cream, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined, creating a rich base for your Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake that captures the essence of autumn in every bite.
Step 4: Mix Ingredients
Gradually add half of the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Then add the remaining dry mixture, mixing until no dry flour remains visible. Be careful not to overmix; this step is crucial for achieving the tender texture you desire in your finished cake.
Step 5: Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and one egg using an electric mixer. Beat until creamy and smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. This luscious filling will swirl beautifully within your Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake, adding a decadent surprise in every sweet slice.
Step 6: Layer Cake in Pan
Pour half of the Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake batter into a greased springform pan, spreading it evenly. Spoon the cream cheese filling gently over the batter, then carefully cover it with the remaining batter. Top it off with the chilled crumble, ensuring even coverage for that perfect golden crust.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the filled springform pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling that it’s fully baked and beautifully risen, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling period is essential for setting the layers and making it easier to slice. Once cooled, serve it up and enjoy the warm, inviting flavors of fall!
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful recipe with these fun variations!
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Dairy-Free Option: Replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese to enjoy the same creamy filling without dairy.
Experience the rich flavor while keeping it friendly for those avoiding dairy. -
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
This way, everyone can indulge without compromising on taste or texture. -
Spice It Up: Add an extra teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne for a warmer kick!
The added spice will infuse each bite with an enticing warmth that will have your guests reaching for more. -
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping for a delightful crunch.
This adds both texture and a lovely nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin spice. -
Coconut Delight: Substitute half the milk in the drizzle with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
The coconut adds a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile while maintaining that comforting autumn essence. -
Fruit Addition: Incorporate some diced apples or pears into the batter for a fruity surprise.
These fruits bring a burst of juiciness, creating an even more inviting cake that’s perfect for fall. -
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter to satisfy any sweet tooth!
The chocolate adds a rich decadence, elevating the cake to a whole new level of indulgence.
For more delightful recipes, consider trying our Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites or the ever-fun Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes. Each of these options can bring a new twist to your cozy gatherings!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake
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Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure to soften your cream cheese at room temperature before mixing to avoid any lumps in the filling.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense texture in your Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake.
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Fresh Baking Powder: Check the freshness of your baking powder to ensure your cake rises perfectly and has a light, fluffy texture.
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Chill the Crumble: Refrigerate the crumble topping before adding it to your cake; this helps achieve a nice, crunchy texture once baked.
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Proper Baking Time: Always perform the toothpick test to check for doneness; it should come out clean for the perfect cake.
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Storage Matters: To keep leftovers moist, store your Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake in an airtight container, or freeze for longer storage.
What to Serve with Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?
The warmth of spiced cake creates the perfect excuse for a cozy meal that invites connection and comfort.
- Spiced Chai Latte: This aromatic beverage enhances the cake’s spices, making every sip a delightful dance of flavors.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream adds cold creaminess that melts beautifully against the warm cake, heightening indulgence.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of fresh cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness, adding a vibrant twist to your autumn dessert table.
- Roasted Pumpkin Soup: This savory soup echoes the flavors of the season, creating a harmonious balance between sweet and savory.
- Warm Apple Cider: Enjoy this drink alongside the cake for a nostalgic touch, wrapping your taste buds in fall’s comforting embrace.
- Candied Pecans: Crunchy, sweet pecans sprinkle over the cake can elevate it to whole new heights, adding an unexpected flavor surprise.
- Maple Drizzle: A drizzle of maple syrup adds additional depth, tying in the autumn theme while intensifying the cake’s already rich flavor.
- Hot Chocolate: A rich, creamy hot chocolate complements the cake’s spices, featuring a decadence that feels like a warm hug.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: If you’re a fan of the pumpkin spice trend, pairing this coffee will enhance the seasonal vibe to delight your senses.
- Pecan Pie Bars: An unexpected twist on dessert, these bars offer a deliciously nutty and sweet companion to your spiced cake.
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake
Room Temperature: Store leftover Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its moistness.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer storage option, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For maximum freshness, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy it warm, slice and reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Make Ahead Options
These irresistible Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crumble topping and cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance by storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can mix the dry ingredients together (flour, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice) and keep them sealed for up to 3 days ahead of time. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the prepared wet ingredients with the dry mixture, layer them in the pan, and bake. This way, you’ll have a delightful, home-baked treat ready to impress, all while saving time on busy weeknights!
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my pumpkin is ripe enough for the recipe?
Absolutely! To choose the best pumpkin, look for one that feels heavy for its size, has a firm skin without dark spots or blemishes, and has a rich, even color. The sugar pumpkins, often available during autumn, are particularly great for baking due to their sweetness and creamy texture.
How should I store leftover Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?
Very! To keep it fresh, store any leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. For best results, heat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds before serving.
What should I do if my cake is too dense after baking?
If your Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake turns out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter or using stale baking powder. To avoid this, mix until just combined and ensure your baking powder is fresh before using. If it happens, you can still enjoy the cake; it just may not be as fluffy as you hoped!
Is this Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake suitable for people with allergies?
The more the merrier! This recipe can be adjusted for various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter and cream cheese with vegan alternatives, and use almond or oat milk. If you’re concerned about gluten, a gluten-free flour blend works wonderfully as a substitute in this recipe.
What is the best way to ensure a smooth cream cheese filling?
To achieve a perfectly smooth cream cheese filling, make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature before mixing. This allows for easy blending without lumps. Beat it with powdered sugar and egg until fully combined, ensuring a creamy filling that will swirl beautifully in your cake!
Fall in Love with Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Crumble: Mix crumble ingredients until resembling coarse crumbs. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Make Dry Mixture: Whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice in a large bowl.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Beat the eggs, then mix in sugars, butter, sour cream, pumpkin puree, and vanilla until smooth.
- Mix Ingredients: Gradually add dry mixture to wet ingredients, stirring gently until no dry flour remains.
- Cream Cheese Filling: Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and one egg until creamy and smooth.
- Layer Cake in Pan: Pour half of the cake batter in a springform pan, spoon cream cheese filling, then cover with remaining batter and crumble.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack before serving.
