Name: Cozy Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake for Sweet Autumn Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree (use real pumpkin puree); 2 large eggs (at room temperature); ½ cup vegetable oil (can substitute with melted coconut oil); ½ cup brown sugar (substitute with coconut sugar for lower GI); ½ cup granulated sugar (can reduce for less sweetness); 2 cups all-purpose flour (can use gluten-free flour for gluten-free diet); 1 teaspoon baking powder (ensure freshness); ½ teaspoon baking soda (ensure freshness); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (infuses warmth and flavor); ½ teaspoon nutmeg (adds a nutty, aromatic profile); ½ teaspoon ginger (toasted for enhanced aroma); 1 pinch salt (balances sweetness); ½ cup cold butter (cut into small pieces); ½ cup additional sugar (can use brown sugar); 1 cup extra flour (mix until resembling coarse crumbs)

As the leaves begin to change and a crisp breeze fills the air, I find myself reaching for the comforting warmth of my kitchen, ready to whip up something special. That’s when I turn to my Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake, which perfectly captures the cozy spirit of fall. This delightful dessert not only boasts a moist pumpkin base infused with warm spices, but it’s also topped with a crunchy, buttery streusel that adds an irresistible texture. What I love most about this quick recipe is that it’s ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for unexpected guests or an after-school treat. Plus, with gluten-free options available, everyone can enjoy this autumn gem. Ready to transform your fall gatherings into flavorful feasts? Let’s dive into this cozy cake that will become a seasonal favorite!

Why is this cake a fall favorite?

Irresistible Comfort: Each bite of this Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake evokes the cozy sensations of autumn, making it the perfect treat for chilly evenings.

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a fuss-free recipe that fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.

Versatile Options: Want it gluten-free or vegan? This cake adapts beautifully to suit various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can indulge.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of warm spices, moist pumpkin, and a crunchy topping makes this cake a hit with friends and family.

Satisfying Texture: With its soft cake crumb and delightful crumble topping, delicious contrasts create a memorable dessert experience.

Don’t forget to check out my Healthy Pumpkin Spice for a delightful breakfast option, or try the White Chocolate Cupcakes for an indulgent treat!

Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Base

Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and flavor; use real pumpkin puree for a healthy boost.
Eggs – Acts as a binder and helps in leavening; ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation.
Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and keeps the cake tender; can substitute with melted coconut oil for a nutty flavor.
Brown Sugar – Sweetener that adds depth and moisture; substitute with coconut sugar for a lower GI option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter; can reduce the amount for a less sweet cake.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use a gluten-free flour blend to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Acts as leavening agents for rising; ensure freshness for best results.

For the Spices

Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and flavor; enhances the cozy essence of fall.
Nutmeg – Adds a nutty, aromatic profile; a little goes a long way for a delightful touch.
Ginger – Kicks up the flavor; toasting spices before adding can enhance their aroma.
Salt – Balances sweetness; essential for overall flavor.

For the Crumble Topping

Butter (Cold) – Provides richness and crunch; using cold butter prevents it from sinking into the cake.
Additional Sugar – Enhances the sweetness of the crumble; can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Extra Flour – Helps bind the crumble; should be mixed until it resembles coarse crumbs.

This Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake combines seasonal flavors and textures, making it a must-try for your autumn dessert lineup!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9-inch square baking pan with cooking spray or butter. This will keep your Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake from sticking. Set the pan aside while you gather and measure out your ingredients, ensuring everything is at hand for a smooth baking experience.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of ginger, and a pinch of salt. The dry ingredients should be well combined to ensure the flavors of your Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake are evenly distributed. This mix will create the delicious base of your cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 2 large eggs (at room temperature), ½ cup of vegetable oil, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, as this helps create a moist texture in your cake. This combination will provide the rich flavor that defines the Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring until just combined—be careful not to overmix. You should see no flour streaks, and the batter should be thick and slightly lumpy. This step is crucial in maintaining a tender crumb in your Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake, so mix it with love and patience.

Step 5: Prepare Crumble Topping
In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup of cold butter (cut into small pieces), 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and ½ cup of sugar. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. This crumble topping will add a delightful crunch on top of your cake, ensuring every bite is full of comforting textures.

Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the batter. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll know your Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake is ready when it springs back slightly when touched.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing into squares. Serve warm for the best experience, and savor the cozy flavors of autumn in every delicious bite!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake

Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation, which keeps the cake light and fluffy when baked.
Fresh Ingredients: Check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda; expired leavening agents can lead to a dense Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold wet and dry ingredients together without overmixing to maintain a tender texture; overworking the batter can create a tough cake.
Proper Crumble Texture: Use cold butter in the crumble topping to achieve that delightful crunch; warm butter will give a soggy texture instead.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake and do the toothpick test early—start checking at 25 minutes to ensure it doesn’t overbake, maintaining moistness.
Pumpkin Purée Quality: Use real pumpkin purée rather than pumpkin pie filling, which often contains additional sugars and spices that can alter the flavor balance of your cake.

What to Serve with Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake

As you savor each slice of this cozy cake, consider these delightful accompaniments to elevate your fall dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm cake, creating a comforting contrast with each bite.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a creamy texture, and enhances the cake’s warm spices.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce brings an indulgent sweetness, perfectly complementing the spice flavors.
Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai will harmonize wonderfully with the cake, making it an ideal beverage choice for chilly evenings.
Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup introduces an additional layer of sweetness and elevates the pumpkin flavors.
Spiced Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a crunchy, salty contrast that pairs beautifully with the cake’s soft texture and warm spices.
Apple Cider: Sipping on warm apple cider brings a touch of autumn’s essence, enhancing the overall experience of enjoying this festive dessert.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the flavors of fall by pairing your cake with a rich, spiced latte for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Chocolate Ganache: For those who crave a decadent twist, a rich chocolate drizzle envelops the cake, adding richness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly treat without compromising flavor. Your friends won’t even notice the difference!
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and coconut milk for a delightful vegan option. You’ll still capture that comforting autumn taste.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter or crumble for an extra layer of crunch. The nuttiness will perfectly complement the warm spices.
Applesauce Swap: For a fruity twist, exchange half of the pumpkin puree with applesauce. This adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of apple flavor that pairs beautifully with spices.
Creamy Swirl: Mix in a layer of softened cream cheese into the batter before baking. This will create a creamy, dreamy texture with each bite that elevates your dessert.
Choco-Craziness: Sprinkle dark chocolate chips over the batter or incorporate them into the crumble topping for a chocolatey indulgence. The rich chocolate adds a decadent touch to fall flavors.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a maple syrup glaze over the cooled cake for an added sweetness that beautifully highlights the pumpkin and spice flavors. It’s a simple yet luxurious finish!
Spice it Up: For those who love a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice blend. It amplifies the warmth and gives a surprising, delightful heat to your cake.

For more cozy recipe options, don’t miss my White Chocolate Cupcakes or try the comforting flavors of my Healthy Pumpkin Spice.

Storage Tips for Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best flavor and freshness.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week; just be sure it’s well wrapped to keep it moist.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best experience, reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through before serving your Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake.

Make Ahead Options

These Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to enjoy a delightful treat without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately, then refrigerating them. For the crumble topping, you can mix it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the chilled batter, pour it into your greased baking pan, sprinkle the crumble on top, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy just as delicious cake with minimal effort on those busy autumn evenings!

Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
I highly recommend using real pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. The latter often contains added sugars and spices that can throw off the flavor of your Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake. You want pure pumpkin for that rich, warm essence that only true pumpkin can provide.

How should I store the Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake?
Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its wonderful flavors and texture. If you want to keep it longer, it can be refrigerated for up to a week, but be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze the Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This method helps preserve the moistness and flavor. Your baked goods can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for the best results.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter after combining the wet and dry ingredients. To achieve a lighter texture, mix gently until just combined—it’s perfectly fine if there are a few lumps! Additionally, ensure you’re using fresh baking powder and baking soda, as expired leavening agents can lead to a heavy cake.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes! To make your Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many great blends exist on the market that will work beautifully in this recipe, so everyone can enjoy this autumn delight!

Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very much so! You can easily adapt this Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake for vegan diets by substituting eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and using a plant-based oil. This way, it’s not only delicious but also caters to various dietary needs!