Moist Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake Recipe

Dreamy Autumn Moist Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake Recipe

Autumn’s crisp breeze carries the warmth of a homemade pumpkin spice crumb cake that melts hearts with every delectable bite.

Layers of rich, spiced goodness dance through this comforting dessert, promising pure indulgence.

Fragrant cinnamon and nutmeg weave their magic into a tender cake base, creating an irresistible treat.

The crumbly topping adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the soft, moist interior.

Pumpkin’s sweet essence infuses each slice with seasonal charm and nostalgic comfort.

Weekends and gatherings deserve this spectacular cake that transforms ordinary moments into cherished memories.

Savor the season, one heavenly slice at a time.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Calories: 280 kcal

Servings: 12

What You’ll Need for Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

For Crumb Topping:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and helps create those delightful, crispy crumbs that make the topping irresistible.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps bind the crumb mixture together.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Delivers warm, aromatic spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Ground Nutmeg: Contributes a subtle, nutty warmth that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
  • Salt: Balances and amplifies the sweet and spicy notes in the topping.
  • Unsalted Butter: Brings richness and helps create the crumbly texture.
For Cake Batter:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the cake, providing structure and tenderness.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Crucial leavening agents that help the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavor of the cake.
  • Ground Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Cloves: Create a classic pumpkin spice blend that gives the cake its signature warm, autumnal flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweeten the cake and contribute to its moisture and texture.
  • Vegetable Oil: Ensures a moist, tender crumb and helps keep the cake soft.
  • Eggs: Provide structure, richness, and help bind the ingredients together.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and complexity to the cake's flavor.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Brings moisture, beautiful color, and quintessential fall flavor.
  • Milk: Helps create a smooth,.

Bakeware to Create Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake at Home

  • 9×9-inch Square Baking Pan: Perfect for creating a delicious crumb cake with even baking.
  • Mixing Bowls (Medium and Large): Essential for preparing both crumb topping and cake batter separately.
  • Whisk: Crucial for blending dry and wet ingredients smoothly without lumps.
  • Spatula: Helps spread batter evenly in the pan and ensures perfect distribution.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Guarantees precise ingredient measurements for consistent results.
  • Toothpick: Checks cake doneness by testing the center for moist crumbs.
  • Cooling Rack (Optional): Allows cake to cool evenly after baking.

How to Assemble a Moist Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake

  • Warm Up the Oven

Get your oven ready by setting the temperature to 350°F. Grab a 9×9-inch pan and give it a quick spray or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

  • Create Crumbly

Mix flour, brown sugar, and fall spices in a bowl. Pour in melted butter and stir until you have delicious, chunky crumbs that look like golden nuggets.

  • Whip Together the Cake Base

Combine dry ingredients in one bowl – flour, baking powder, and those cozy spices that scream autumn. In another bowl, blend sugars and oil until smooth. Crack in eggs one by one, then fold in pumpkin puree and vanilla.

  • Layer and Prepare

Pour the silky pumpkin batter into your prepared pan. Sprinkle those crumbly topping pieces all over the surface, making sure every inch gets some love.

  • Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and let it transform for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick comes out clean and the top looks golden and tempting.

  • Cool and Enjoy

Let the cake rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve. Optional: Dust with a light snowfall of powdered sugar for extra charm.

Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake Tips & Add-In Ideas

  • Prepare the crumb topping and dry cake ingredients the night before to save precious morning prep time. Store separately in airtight containers for ultimate freshness.
  • Swap regular flour with a cup-for-cup gluten-free blend to make this delightful cake accessible for those with wheat sensitivities. Add a teaspoon of xanthan gum for better texture.
  • Replace milk with almond or oat milk and use coconut oil instead of butter in the crumb topping. These simple swaps create a delicious dairy-free version without compromising flavor.
  • Adjust the warm spices to suit your taste. Reduce or increase cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg quantities for a personalized flavor profile that matches your preference.
  • Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Warm slightly before serving to revive the cake's soft, tender texture and enhance its inviting aroma.

Serve Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Fall Favorites

  • Sweet Morning Companion: Pair this delightful pumpkin spice crumb cake with a steaming cup of hot coffee or chai tea for a cozy breakfast experience that warms both heart and soul.
  • Dessert Elegance: Transform this cake into a stunning dessert by adding a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, creating a luxurious after-dinner treat that delights every palate.
  • Weekend Brunch Star: Slice the cake into elegant squares and serve on a beautiful platter during weekend brunches, perfect for sharing with family and friends while enjoying relaxed conversation and comfort.
  • Gifting Delight: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper and tie with a rustic twine for a homemade gift that shows care and warmth, ideal for autumn gatherings or neighborly gestures.

How to Store Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake Right

  • Store cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Prepare the entire cake 1-2 days before serving, keeping it at room temperature wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to enhance flavor development.
  • Slice cake into individual portions, wrap each carefully in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months for convenient future enjoyment.
  • Keep cake uncovered at room temperature for 1-2 days if planning to consume quickly, ensuring maximum freshness and soft texture.

FAQs

  • Why are the crumbs so important in this cake?

The crumb topping adds a delightful textural contrast to the soft pumpkin cake, creating a crunchy, sweet layer that enhances the overall flavor and makes each bite more interesting.

  • Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

While canned pumpkin puree provides consistent moisture and flavor, you can use homemade pumpkin puree. Just ensure it’s well-strained and has a similar consistency to canned puree to maintain the cake’s texture.

  • How do I know if I'm overmixing the batter?

When mixing the cake batter, stop stirring as soon as the dry ingredients are just incorporated. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a tough, dense cake instead of a tender, soft crumb.

  • Is this cake suitable for fall gatherings?

Absolutely! The warm spices and pumpkin flavor make this crumb cake perfect for autumn events, Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dessert, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a crisp morning.

Print
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Moist Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake Recipe

Moist Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake Recipe


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4.6 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Delightful Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake merges autumn’s warmest flavors into a single irresistible dessert. Spiced pumpkin layers and buttery crumb topping create a comforting treat you’ll crave through cooler seasons.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 ¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) milk
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tsps ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp ground cloves
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat Workspace: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan with light grease or parchment paper lining.
  2. Create Crumb Topping: Mix flour, brown sugar, spices, and salt in a bowl, then drizzle melted butter and stir until clusters form with a rustic, uneven texture.
  3. Prepare Dry Cake Mixture: Whisk flour, leavening agents, salt, and warm spices in a separate bowl until completely blended.
  4. Develop Wet Base: Combine sugars and vegetable oil, whisking until smooth, then integrate eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and pumpkin puree.
  5. Merge Ingredients: Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, alternating with milk to maintain a delicate cake texture, avoiding overmixing.
  6. Assemble and Decorate: Pour batter into prepared pan, smooth surface, and generously distribute reserved crumb topping for a textured finish.
  7. Bake and Rest: Bake for 40-45 minutes until a testing tool comes out clean and topping turns golden-brown, then allow cake to stabilize in pan for 15 minutes.
  8. Serve and Garnish: Optional powdered sugar dusting, then slice and serve at room temperature or slightly warm for optimal enjoyment.

Notes

  • Spice Precision: Use freshly ground pumpkin pie spice or blend your own for more vibrant, intense flavor profiles.
  • Moisture Management: Do not overmix the batter to prevent a dense, tough cake texture; mix just until ingredients combine smoothly.
  • Topping Technique: Squeeze crumb topping gently into small clusters for a more substantial, crunchy surface during baking.
  • Temperature Control: Allow ingredients like eggs and milk to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure even, consistent cake texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 270
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Emily Lawson

Emily Lawson

Content Creator & Culinary Specialist

Expertise

  • Creative Content Writing and Blogging​
  • Plant-Based and Alternative Grilling Recipes​
  • Food Styling and Visual Storytelling​
  • Nutritional Analysis and Healthy Cooking

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on farm-to-table cooking, sustainable practices, and the fusion of global flavors with traditional grilling methods. ​


Emily Lawson is the content creator at Daves Grill, turning tasty ideas into clear, easy recipes. Based in Portland, she trained at the Oregon Culinary Institute and loves cooking with fresh, seasonal ingredients, especially grilled veggies and global flavors.

Emily mixes food writing with hands-on cooking to bring you recipes that feel fun, not stressful. Her goal is to make every dish simple, flavorful, and worth coming back to. Together, she and Dave serve up real food, one recipe at a time.

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