Introduction

As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there's a special magic in the kitchen that invites us to bake. Autumn is the time for warm spices and comforting flavors, and nothing embodies this season quite like a pumpkin spice crumble cake.

This cake is not only rich and moist but also topped with a delightful crumble that adds a satisfying texture. Perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings, this recipe highlights the flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating an irresistible scent that fills your home.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
All-purpose flour serves as the foundation of the cake, providing structure and stability. Its gluten content allows the cake to rise properly, ensuring a fluffy and soft texture that is essential for a great crumble cake.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the cake rise as it bakes. This ingredient is crucial for achieving a light cake that doesn't feel dense, allowing the flavors of pumpkin and spices to shine through.
1 teaspoon baking soda
Baking soda works in tandem with baking powder to create even more lift. When introduced to the acidic components in the pumpkin puree, it reacts to create bubbles that contribute to the cake's airy quality.
1 teaspoon salt
Salt enhances the sweetness of the cake and balances the flavors. It is a key ingredient that rounds out the taste, ensuring the pumpkin and spices are not overpowering.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Ground cinnamon is a signature spice in this recipe, imparting a warm, comforting flavor that is synonymous with autumn. Its aromatic qualities make every bite feel like a cozy hug.
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Nutmeg adds a distinctive warmth and complexity to the flavor profile of the cake. A little goes a long way, contributing to that quintessential pumpkin spice essence.
½ teaspoon ground ginger
Ginger provides a subtle heat that enhances the cake’s spices. Its unique flavor profile complements pumpkin remarkably well, making it a perfect addition to this autumn treat.
1 cup granulated sugar
Granulated sugar not only sweetens the cake but also contributes to its structure. It caramelizes during baking, adding a lovely golden hue and slightly crunchy texture to the crust.
½ cup packed brown sugar
Brown sugar brings extra moisture and a rich flavor to the cake thanks to its molasses content. This results in a more complex sweetness and enhances the cake's overall fall vibes.
1 cup pumpkin puree
Pumpkin puree is the star ingredient that gives this cake its signature flavor and moisture. It provides a rich texture and a natural sweetness that complements the spices perfectly.
½ cup vegetable oil
Vegetable oil adds moisture to the cake, resulting in a tender crumb. It also helps in achieving a nice rise without making the cake too heavy.
3 large eggs
Eggs act as a binding agent, helping to combine the ingredients and giving structure to the cake. They also contribute to moisture, richness, and an overall airy texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract adds an aromatic depth that balances the spices in the cake. It creates a rich backdrop for the other flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience.
1 cup rolled oats
Rolled oats are a key component of the crumble topping, providing a nutty flavor and a chewy texture. They help create a delightful contrast to the soft cake beneath.
½ cup chopped pecans
Chopped pecans add a crunchy element to the crumble topping. Their buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the spices and pumpkin, making every bite enjoyable.
½ cup all-purpose flour (for crumble)
Additional flour in the crumble mixture helps to form a crumbly texture that contrasts with the soft cake. It ensures the crumble holds together while still being delightfully flaky.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Melted butter adds richness and binds the crumble ingredients together, contributing to its crispness. It infuses a wonderful flavor that enhances the overall cake experience.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises properly. It is crucial to have a stable temperature from the beginning to achieve the best texture and flavor. An oven thermometer can be helpful to ensure accuracy.

Step 2: Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it.

Greasing the baking dish will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to serve. You can use butter or cooking spray for this step, ensuring you cover all corners. Consider using parchment paper for added protection against sticking.

Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Combining the dry ingredients helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour. This step is essential for achieving a uniform flavor and rise in your cake. Sifting the ingredients can also ensure a light texture.

Step 4: In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly incorporates the sugars, which adds moisture and flavor to your cake. This step is vital for achieving a smooth batter that will create a tender crumb in the final product.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.

Combining the wet and dry ingredients gently prevents overmixing, which can lead to a tough cake. Mixing until just combined ensures the cake remains tender and moist while still allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: In a separate bowl, create the crumble topping by combining oats, chopped pecans, flour, and melted butter.

Making the crumble topping in a separate bowl allows for even distribution of the butter and dry ingredients. This step brings texture to the cake, ensuring your crumble has a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft pumpkin cake beneath.

Step 7: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

Spreading the batter evenly guarantees consistent baking, making sure that all parts of the cake rise uniformly. A spatula can help with this step to ensure that it fills every corner of the dish.

Step 8: Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the cake batter, spreading it evenly across the top.

This step adds a layer of crunch that complements the soft cake beautifully. Spreading the crumble evenly ensures that every piece of cake gets a bite of that delicious topping, enhancing the overall flavor.

Step 9: Bake the cake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Baking the cake until a toothpick comes out clean is crucial for doneness. It prevents undercooked batter in the center and ensures that the crumble has a chance to crisp up, adding to the delightful texture of each slice.

Step 10: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Cooling the cake briefly in the pan allows it to firm up, making it easier to transfer to a wire rack without falling apart. Once moved, letting it cool completely enables the flavors to set and improves the overall texture.

Step 11: Slice and serve the cake warm or at room temperature.

Serving the cake when it's still warm enhances the aroma and flavor, inviting everyone to enjoy a slice. However, it can also be served at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.

Ultimate Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake step photo

The Perfect Mix of Spices

The spices in this pumpkin spice crumble cake play an integral role in defining its autumnal character. A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates an aromatic profile that not only enhances flavor but also evokes nostalgia for cozy fall days. The balance of these spices is essential; too much can overpower the pumpkin, while too little might leave the cake bland. Finding the right mix can elevate your cake from good to extraordinary.

Secrets to a Crunchy Crumble

A good crumble topping transforms a simple cake into a show-stopper. The crunchy texture is achieved by balancing oats, flour, butter, and nuts. Using melted butter ensures that all the ingredients bind together while still providing that needed crisp texture. Additionally, allowing the crumble to bake until golden brown creates a delightful contrast with the moist pumpkin cake, ensuring each bite has a mix of textures to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions to Wow Your Guests

This cake stands out on any dessert table, but serving suggestions can enhance the overall experience. Consider pairing slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add richness. Drizzling with caramel sauce or sprinkling with powdered sugar can introduce an elegant touch. For a festive finish, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top before serving, or even a few toasted pecans for an added crunch.

FAQs

What can I do if the cake is too dense?

If your cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Ensure you mix only until combined and consider measuring your flour accurately, spooning it into the measuring cup rather than scooping.

Can I use a different type of nut in the crumble?

Yes, feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each will bring a different flavor and texture, allowing you to customize the crumble to your liking.

What happens if the crumble topping burns?

If the topping is browning too quickly, you can cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil during baking to protect it. This method allows the cake to finish baking without overcooking the crumble.

How can I make the pumpkin flavor more pronounced?

To enhance the pumpkin flavor, consider increasing the pumpkin puree slightly while adjusting the flour to maintain balance. Additionally, using fresh pumpkin puree, if available, can also elevate the flavor profile.

What should I do if the crumble mixture is too wet?

If your crumble mixture seems too wet, it may be due to excessive butter or liquid. You can balance it by adding a little more flour or oats to achieve the desired crumbly texture.

Can I bake this in a different size pan?

Yes, you can bake the cake in different sized pans. If using a smaller pan, keep an eye on the bake time since it may vary. A larger pan may result in a thinner cake that bakes faster.

Conclusion

With its warm spices and comforting textures, this pumpkin spice crumble cake embodies the spirit of autumn, making it a perfect addition to your seasonal baking repertoire. Each bite brings a taste of nostalgia and the joy of the season.

Whether enjoyed warm with ice cream or shared with friends over coffee, this cake is sure to delight. Embrace the flavors of fall and savor the moments that come with creating this delectable treat.

Recipe Card