Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, irresistible dessert that wraps you in the warm flavors of fall, this Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines tender, moist pumpkin cake infused with fragrant pumpkin pie spice, topped with a buttery, crunchy crumble and a sweet glaze that ties everything together. Perfect for chilly afternoons or holiday gatherings, this cake brings that nostalgic autumn magic to your kitchen in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but essential to capture the classic autumn vibe and the perfect balance of moistness, spice, and crunch. Each component plays a special role, from the rich pumpkin puree that keeps the cake tender to the cinnamon-spiced crumble that gives delightful texture.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and a soft, cakey crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness to balance the spices and pumpkin.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, color, and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist without heaviness.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors with its warm, sweet aroma.
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice: The heart of the cake’s autumnal flavor with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise for a light texture.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the spices.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a deep caramel flavor to the crumble topping.
• 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed: Creates a rich, crumbly topping with a lovely buttery taste.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: For the glaze that adds a final touch of sweetness.
• 1-2 tbsp milk: Adjusts glaze consistency for the perfect drizzle.

How to Make Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9-inch round cake pan. This step ensures your cake bakes evenly and releases easily from the pan without sticking, giving you a clean presentation.

Step 2: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix is where your spicy aroma begins. Then, add the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir everything until just combined to avoid overmixing, which keeps your cake tender and fluffy.

Step 3: Prepare and Add the Crumble Topping

For that iconic crumble, mix the brown sugar and flour in a small bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the pumpkin batter in the pan – the contrast of moist cake and crunchy crumble is irresistible.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma of pumpkin spice that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply heavenly. Let it cool slightly so the crumble firms up but the cake stays warm and inviting.

Step 5: Drizzle the Sweet Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of milk until smooth and drizzleable. Pour this glaze over the warm cake, letting it cascade over the crumble topping to add that lovely sweet finish and a touch of shine. This final step turns a great cake into something truly special.

How to Serve Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate presentation and flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the glaze just before serving. A few toasted pecans or a dollop of whipped cream can also add texture and richness that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin notes.

Side Dishes

This cake shines alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea or a creamy latte. If you want something heartier, serve it with vanilla ice cream or a scoop of cinnamon-swirled pumpkin frozen yogurt for the ultimate indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or holidays, cut the cake into small squares and serve on decorative plates with autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks as accents. You can also layer slices with mascarpone or cream cheese frosting to create a stunning seasonal trifle that showcases the flavors in a fresh way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days at room temperature, making it perfect for quick snacks or desserts later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake either whole or sliced. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When stored correctly, it will keep for up to 2 months without losing its wonderful flavor and texture.

Reheating

To enjoy leftover cake warm, reheat slices gently in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in an oven at 300°F until just heated through. This will bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feeling you love.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, roast it until tender, then puree it until smooth. Just make sure to measure the same quantity as the canned puree called for in the recipe to maintain the correct moisture balance.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that can be used cup-for-cup. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to help the cake maintain its structure and texture.

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

You can use melted coconut oil or a mild-flavored olive oil instead. These alternatives will keep the cake moist but might add slight flavor notes, which can be delicious complements to the spices.

How long does this cake stay fresh?

Stored at room temperature in an airtight container, the Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Recipe stays fresh for about three days. Refrigeration can extend freshness up to five days but may slightly dry the cake.

Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, doubling the ingredients and baking in a larger or multiple pans works well. Just watch the baking time carefully – it might need to be extended slightly depending on your pan size and oven.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Recipe is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug on a crisp fall day. It’s simple yet decadent, balancing cozy spices with moist pumpkin and a crisp topping that will have your whole family asking for seconds. Give it a try, and soon it might just become your favorite seasonal treat too!

Print