Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Pecan Streusel

If you’re craving a delightful treat that perfectly balances moist, tender crumb with crunchy, nutty goodness, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Pecan Streusel is here to steal your heart. Bursting with warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor, this cake is the ultimate cozy companion for cool mornings or festive gatherings. The pecan streusel topping adds a sweet, buttery crunch that makes every bite simply irresistible and leaves you reaching for just one more slice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Moisture: The pumpkin puree ensures every bite of the cake stays incredibly moist and tender.
• Seasonal Spice Blend: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves brings out warm, festive aromas.
• Crunchy Pecan Streusel: The buttery pecan streusel topping gives a delightful texture contrast with added nutty flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples that are easy to find and affordable.
• Versatile Serving: Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, pleasing all ages and occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Pecan Streusel comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring something special to the table—whether it’s the warm spices, the rich pumpkin, or the crunchy pecans.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the cake, creating a soft but sturdy crumb.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and that beautiful golden color.
• Brown Sugar: Infuses the cake with deep caramel notes while keeping it tender.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves: Classic fall spices that warm up the flavor profile perfectly.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create the flaky streusel topping.
• Pecans: Give the streusel its signature crunch and a slightly buttery nutty taste.
• Eggs: Act as a binder and provide lift.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents to ensure a light texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors with a sweet, aromatic note.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and deepens the overall taste.

Variations for Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Pecan Streusel

This recipe invites your creativity, making it easy to tweak ingredients or toppings to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or what’s in your kitchen!

• Nut Swap: Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different but equally tasty crunch.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to enjoy this cake without gluten worries.
• Maple Syrup Twist: Substitute brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness boost.
• Vegan Version: Use flax eggs and a plant-based butter substitute to keep the cake moist and rich.
• Spice Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a unique spice profile.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Pecan Streusel

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Start by combining chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter cubes in a bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it forms coarse crumbs. Set aside to add that crunchy, nutty topping later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and your cozy spices in a large bowl. This ensures even distribution for a consistent flavor throughout the cake.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, sugar, melted butter, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake light and fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour half of the batter into a greased baking pan, sprinkle half of the pecan streusel on top, then spread the remaining batter over it. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the streusel evenly across the surface. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Pecan Streusel

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs and butter to room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the dry and wet ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.
• Fresh Spices: Use fresh ground cinnamon and nutmeg for the most vibrant, aromatic flavor.
• Chill Butter for Streusel: Cold butter helps create that desirable crumbly texture in the streusel topping.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your pan for easier cake removal and clean-up.

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Pecan Streusel

Garnishes

Dust the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze to add an extra touch of sweetness and eye appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair this coffee cake with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt for a perfect breakfast or snack combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cake in rustic slices on a wooden board with seasonal fruits like sliced apples or pears for a charming fall-inspired spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to revive that fresh-baked softness and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and provides the same moist texture and rich flavor that fresh pumpkin offers.

Is it possible to make this coffee cake dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil alternative and use a plant-based milk if the recipe calls for any milk additions.

How long will this cake keep fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, the cake stays fresh for about 3 days. Refrigeration can extend it to 5 days.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, doubling the ingredients and baking in a larger pan or multiple pans works well; just watch the baking time closely to avoid overbaking.

What other nuts can I use in the streusel topping?

Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts are great alternatives that add unique flavors and textures to the streusel topping.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Pecan Streusel is a warm, comforting treat that brings fall flavors right into your home with simplicity and charm. Whether you’re sharing it over weekend brunch or serving it up at holiday gatherings, this cake will soon become a cherished favorite. Grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy every irresistibly moist and crunchy bite!

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