As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there’s a certain comfort found in the kitchen that can only be described as magical. One whiff of warm cinnamon and cozy pumpkin spice whisked into a delightful cake, and I’m instantly transported to autumn afternoons spent sipping coffee and laughing with friends. It’s this feeling that inspired me to create my Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Filling—a dessert that’s not only a feast for the senses but a true crowd-pleaser.
Imagine slicing into a lush, spiced crumb, revealing hidden layers of creamy goodness, all topped with a buttery crumble that adds the perfect crunch. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet moment with your favorite mug of coffee or bringing a slice to share at brunch, this cake is sure to evoke smiles and sighs of satisfaction. Join me as we embrace the season’s flavors and learn how to whip up this comforting delight that’s as memorable as your favorite autumn traditions.
Why is Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake so delicious?
Cozy Flavor Combinations: The delightful blend of pumpkin spice and cream cheese creates a flavor that screams autumn, making every bite an experience to savor.
Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can create a stunning dessert that impresses without overwhelming you.
Perfect for Gatherings: This cake is a showstopper, making it ideal for brunches, potlucks, or cozy family dinners—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Versatile Enjoyment: It’s tasty warm or chilled, paired with everything from coffee to hot cider, making it the perfect seasonal treat.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and store for up to four days or freeze for later, allowing you to enjoy the tastes of fall even when life gets busy. Choose to elevate your baking game with this unique Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake!
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Ingredients
For the Batter
- Sugar – Sweetener that balances the flavors; substitute with coconut sugar for a deeper taste.
- Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a rich flavor; can be replaced with white sugar for a lighter taste.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; kosher or sea salt can be used interchangeably.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Butter – Adds moisture and richness; unsalted margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.
- Pumpkin Spice – Offers warm autumn flavors; mix individual spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if pumpkin spice is unavailable.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a fluffy texture; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients together; use flax eggs as a vegan alternative.
- Sour Cream – Contributes to moisture and a tender crumb; plain Greek yogurt can serve as a substitute.
- Pumpkin Puree – Essential for flavor and moisture; both homemade or canned puree work well.
- Vanilla – Adds depth of flavor; almond extract makes a lovely substitute.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- Cream Cheese – Forms the creamy filling; opt for vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
- Powdered Sugar – For the drizzle that sweetens the finished cake; monk fruit sweetener is great for a low-sugar option.
For the Drizzle
- Milk – Adjusts the consistency of the drizzle; almond or oat milk can be used for lactose-free adjustments.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake
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Prepare the Crumble: In a medium bowl, mix crumble ingredients until they resemble coarse crumbs. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and firm up the mixture, which will create a delightful crunch.
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Make Dry Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice. This blend will provide the spiced foundation for your cake, ensuring all flavors are well-combined.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs until fluffy, then blend in sugar, softened butter, sour cream, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth. Enjoy the lovely aroma that fills the air!
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Mix Ingredients: Gradually add half of the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, blending gently to incorporate. Once combined, add the remainder of the dry mix, mixing until just combined for a batter that’s thick and silky.
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Cream Cheese Filling: Beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar, a bit of flour, and an egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the decadent layer hidden within your cake!
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Layer Cake in Pan: Pour half the batter into a greased springform pan. Carefully spoon the cream cheese filling over it, then top with the remaining batter. Finish by scattering the chilled crumble on top for that lovely crunch.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and inviting!
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack. Slice the cake once cooled and marvel at the delicious layers you’ve created.
Optional: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Variations
Indulge your creativity and make this recipe your own with delightful twists that will uplift your senses.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a cake that everyone can enjoy. It will still boast that signature pumpkin flavor!
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and a lovely nutty aroma that complements the spice perfectly.
- Choco Delight: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for a rich contrast that brings a sweet surprise with every slice. Just remember to adjust the sugar!
- Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs and cream cheese with vegan cream cheese to create a fully plant-based version that everyone will love.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Mix a teaspoon of cinnamon and a tablespoon of sugar, swirled into the batter before baking, adds a deliciously sweet surprise in the middle.
- Chai Spices: For a warm, spiced twist, substitute pumpkin spice with a mix of cardamom, ginger, and cloves to create a sumptuous chai flavor profile.
- Maple Drizzle: Instead of powdered sugar, make a maple syrup glaze for drizzling over the cooled cake, infusing it with an earthy sweetness that screams fall.
- Berry Bliss: Add fresh or frozen berries such as blueberries or raspberries into the batter for a fruity explosion that perfectly balances the richness of the cake.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the pumpkin spice coffee cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Fridge: Store slices wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 4 days. This helps retain moisture and flavor while keeping the cake soft and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover slices, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to bring back that delightful warmth and texture.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake?
Indulging in a slice of this cozy cake is just the beginning; let’s complete your autumn experience with the perfect pairings.
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Warm Coffee: A classic choice that enhances the rich flavors of the cake, making every bite a joyful experience.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The cinnamon and cardamom in chai complement the pumpkin spice nicely, creating a harmonious blend that’s simply irresistible.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds a delightful contrast to the cake’s richness and makes for an indulgent dessert.
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Cranberry Applesauce: The tartness cuts through the sweetness, balancing each mouthful with a bright, fruity note that sings fall.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a vibrant mix of apples, pears, and citrus adds a crisp element that rounds out the meal beautifully.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel over your slice will enhance the sweetness and add a luxurious touch to this tasty treat.
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Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea aligns perfectly with the cake’s autumnal flavors, deepening the cozy vibe of your gathering.
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Maple Glazed Nuts: Crunchy and sweet, a handful of glazed nuts brings an enjoyable texture alongside the soft cake, creating a delightful snack combination.
With these delightful options, you’ll create a wonderful meal experience that celebrates the flavors of autumn!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh for the best rise and flavor in your pumpkin spice coffee cake.
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Soften Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps in your filling; this ensures a smooth texture.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to achieve a tender cake texture—overmixing can lead to toughness.
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Check Doneness: Ovens can vary; use a toothpick to check for doneness in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it’s ready to enjoy!
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Chill the Crumble: Refrigerating the crumble mixture before baking helps it maintain its texture on top of the cake, adding that delightful crunch you crave.
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Store Properly: Keep leftover slices of pumpkin spice coffee cake wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to four days to maintain moisture and flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the crumble and the cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the crumble ingredients, refrigerate, and beat the cream cheese with sugar and flour until smooth, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can combine your dry and wet ingredients separately and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just mix them together and layer as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy a freshly baked cake that’s just as delicious, while seamlessly fitting this delightful treat into your busy schedule!
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin for the cake?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree for your cake, opt for 100% pure pumpkin and avoid pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. If using fresh pumpkin, look for small, sugar pumpkins or “pie pumpkins,” which are sweeter and less watery. Ensure it’s firm with no dark spots—this indicates freshness.
How do I properly store leftover pumpkin spice coffee cake?
Very! To keep your cake fresh, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This method will help retain moisture and flavor, ensuring you enjoy the cake just as much on day four as you did on day one!
Can I freeze pumpkin spice coffee cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
Oh no! If your pumpkin spice coffee cake sinks, it may be due to a few reasons: Underbaking is common, so always check for doneness with a toothpick. To remedy this, be sure to accurately measure your ingredients and avoid opening the oven door too frequently during baking, as a sudden drop in temperature can cause the cake to collapse.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Very much so! To adapt the Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake for a dairy-free diet, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or cashew cream for the filling. Use unsweetened almond milk instead of regular milk for the drizzle, and stick to a dairy-free margarine in place of butter for the batter. Enjoy your delicious cake without the dairy!
Is this pumpkin spice coffee cake safe for pets?
Absolutely not! Ingredients like sugar, and especially cream cheese and certain spices can be harmful to pets, particularly dogs. It’s best to keep this delightful cake for human consumption only. Enjoy it knowing it’s a treat meant for those cozy autumn moments!
Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Creamy Filling
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Crumble: In a medium bowl, mix crumble ingredients until they resemble coarse crumbs. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Make Dry Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin spice.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Whisk the eggs until fluffy, then blend in sugar, softened butter, sour cream, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Mix Ingredients: Gradually add half of the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, blending gently. Then add the remainder and mix until just combined.
- Cream Cheese Filling: Beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and egg until smooth.
- Layer Cake in Pan: Pour half the batter into a greased springform pan, spoon the cream cheese filling over it, and top with remaining batter and chilled crumble.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.