Advertisement
As a chill creeps into the air and leaves begin to turn, my kitchen transforms into a haven for fall flavors. There’s something undeniably enchanting about baking an Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake—the combination of warm spices and the rich, cozy aroma fills the room with an inviting embrace. This cake is not only a sweet treat that captures the essence of the season but also comes together remarkably fast, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings or a weekday dessert that feels special. Plus, with gluten-free and vegan variations available, it’s an inclusive dessert that everyone can enjoy! Are you ready to indulge in a slice of autumn bliss? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Why Is This Cake a Must-Bake?
Ease of preparation: This Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake comes together in no time, perfect for busy schedules or last-minute gatherings.
Irresistible flavors: The warm spices combined with the moist pumpkin base create a flavor experience that captures the heart of the fall season.
Advertisement
Versatile options: Whether you want a gluten-free version or a vegan take, this recipe adapts easily to suit various diets, ensuring no one misses out on the deliciousness.
Crowd-pleaser: It’s perfect for sharing—imagine friends and family savoring this cozy treat together!
Serving suggestions: Pair it with vanilla bean ice cream or drizzle with warm caramel for an indulgent experience. Enjoying it with a cup of coffee or tea elevates the entire experience!
Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Ingredients
-
For the Cake
-
Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and flavor; make sure it’s thick to prevent sogginess.
-
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; swap with a gluten-free blend if needed.
-
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; consider using coconut sugar for a healthier option.
-
Brown Sugar – Enhances moisture and richness; choose between light or dark sugar interchangeably.
-
Baking Powder – Essential for a good rise; check it’s fresh for the best results.
-
Baking Soda – Aids in browning; complements the pumpkin beautifully.
-
Salt – Balances flavors; don’t skip this vital ingredient.
-
Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger) – Infuse warmth and fall flavor; adjust to your spice preference.
-
Eggs – Bind the ingredients; use room temperature eggs for a smoother mix.
-
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist; can be substituted with melted coconut oil for flavor.
-
For the Crumble Topping
-
Butter (cold) – Creates a crispy texture for the topping; avoid using melted butter.
-
All-Purpose Flour – Works with the butter to form a crumbly topping; gluten-free flour can be used as well.
-
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and adds crunch to the crumble; mix well with the flour and butter.
-
For the Glaze
-
Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness for the glaze; adjust the milk to achieve your desired consistency.
-
Milk – Helps in achieving the perfect glaze thickness; use any milk of your choice.
This Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake is an easy fall dessert bursting with flavor and perfect for all occasions!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As it warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and generously grease it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. You’ll want to ensure your pan is ready for the moist batter of the Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and your chosen spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Make sure the mixture is well combined and free from any lumps, allowing the warm aromas to fill your kitchen as you prepare the base for your cake.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, room temperature eggs, and vegetable oil. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic begins, as the pumpkin adds moisture and flavor to your Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can lead to a dense cake. You want to maintain a light and fluffy texture, crucial for that perfect crumb in your cake.
Step 5: Pour the Batter
Carefully pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners. The beautiful orange hue of the batter should create a delightful anticipation for the delicious Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake that’s about to bake.
Step 6: Prepare the Crumble Topping
For the crumble, in a medium bowl, combine cold butter, all-purpose flour, and granulated sugar. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix the ingredients until they form a crumbly, coarse mixture. The cold butter will ensure your topping is crispy and does not sink into the batter while baking.
Step 7: Add the Crumble
Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the pumpkin cake batter. Use your fingers to gently press down the topping, creating a satisfying layer of crunch on top. This step enhances the texture of your Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake and adds a delightful contrast to the soft cake beneath.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The topping should be golden brown and fragrant, filling your home with the cozy essence of autumn.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes. This cooling time helps the cake set a bit more, making it easier to slice into perfect squares when you’re ready to serve your delicious Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake.
Make Ahead Options
This Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the wonderful flavors of fall with minimal rush. You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance—just cover it tightly in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness. Additionally, you can mix the crumble topping and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled batter into your prepared pan, sprinkle the crumble over the top, and bake as directed. This ensures your cake remains just as delicious while saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake
As the cozy aroma of pumpkin spice wafts through your home, it’s time to elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings.
-
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a delightful contrast to the spiced cake, making each bite irresistible.
-
Whipped Cream: Fluffy clouds of whipped cream create a lightness that balances the hearty crumble, enhancing the cake’s warmth.
-
Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries offers a refreshing counterpoint to the sweet, spiced flavors of the cake.
-
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice adds an indulgent sweetness that takes this cake to a luxurious level.
-
Chai Tea: A steaming cup of chai echoes the cake’s spiced notes, creating a symphony of flavors that warms your soul.
-
Coffee: The rich, bitter notes of coffee complement the sweetness of the cake perfectly, making for a comforting afternoon treat.
-
Nutty Granola: Sprinkling some granola on top provides a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft, moist texture of the cake.
-
Toasted Pecans: The earthy crunch of pecans amplifies the fall vibes and adds a different texture that enchants the palate.
-
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Sip on this classic fall beverage alongside your dessert to embrace every layer of seasonal flavor together.
Expert Tips for Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake
-
Avoid Overmixing: Mixing too much can lead to a dense texture. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined for a light cake.
-
Use Cold Butter: For the crumble topping, always use cold butter. This helps form a crunchy layer instead of sinking into the batter.
-
Check Freshness of Ingredients: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh to ensure proper rise. Stale leaveners can result in a flat cake.
-
Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better emulsification, contributing to a moist cake.
-
Cool Before Slicing: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before cutting. This prevents crumbling and ensures clean slices of your Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake.
How to Store and Freeze Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake
Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its moist texture and flavor.
Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to 1 week. Wrap it tightly to prevent drying out and maintain the delicious taste of your Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake.
Freezer: Freeze individual slices or the entire cake wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers warm, reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. This brings back the cozy comfort of fresh-baked cake!
Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this cake your own with these delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a friendly adaptation that everyone can enjoy.
- Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil.
- Nut-Free: Omit nuts or use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option while still enjoying a satisfying crunch in every bite.
- Spiced Up: Increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of cayenne for a surprising kick that warms the palate!
- Choco-Pumpkin Delight: Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent twist that will make this dessert utterly irresistible.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Add dollops of cream cheese mixed with sugar atop the batter before baking for an extra creamy and rich surprise.
- Salted Caramel Drizzle: Elevate your cake with a drizzle of homemade salted caramel to add an indulgent layer of sweetness and rich flavor.
- Pumpkin Butter Melt: Spread a thin layer of pumpkin butter over the cake before adding the crumb topping for an extra burst of pumpkin flavor.
As you explore these variations, be sure to try serving the cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or alongside some fresh berries for an added contrast. Enjoy the delightful journey of flavors!
Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either canned or homemade pumpkin puree—just make sure that if you’re making it at home, it’s thick enough to avoid sogginess in your cake. Canned pumpkin is typically more reliable for consistent results.
How should I store my Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake?
For optimal freshness, store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 1 week. Just wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out and losing that lovely flavor!
Can I freeze the cake? If so, how?
Yes! You can freeze the entire cake or individual slices. Wrap them securely in plastic wrap, and then cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.
What if my cake doesn’t rise?
Very! A common reason for a dense cake is stale baking powder or baking soda. Before baking, ensure they are fresh by checking expiration dates. Also, avoid overmixing the batter; this can lead to a heavy texture. Gently fold the ingredients until just combined for the best results.
Is this pumpkin spice crumble cake suitable for certain diets?
This recipe is quite versatile! You can easily adapt it for gluten-free diets by using a gluten-free flour blend. To make it vegan, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use plant-based oil instead of regular oil. I often make alterations, and my friends love them just as much!
Indulge in Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- In a medium bowl, combine cold butter, flour, and sugar for the crumble, mixing until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping over the batter and gently press it down.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before serving.
