Pumpkin Coffee Cake – A Moist, Spiced Fall Treat with Streusel Topping

Is there anything more comforting than a warm slice of pumpkin coffee cake on a crisp fall morning? This soft, spiced treat is a family favorite around here — and it comes with a golden, buttery streusel topping that’s honestly the best part.

Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, a cozy get-together, or just want something delicious with your morning coffee, this easy pumpkin coffee cake delivers every time. It’s that perfect balance of moist, not-too-sweet, warmly spiced, and so easy to whip up even if you’re short on time (or energy).

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Made with real pumpkin and grated apple for extra moisture and flavor
• That crumbly cinnamon streusel topping is pure fall comfort
• One bowl, no mixer needed – totally beginner-friendly
• Can be doubled for a crowd (hello, 9×13 pan!)

I started making this when my kids were toddlers, and it quickly became our official “first weekend of fall” bake. Now it’s a yearly tradition — and honestly, I still get excited about that first bite with a hot mug of coffee.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Coffee Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup neutral oil (like vegetable or canola)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling!)
• 1 cup grated apple (about 1 large apple – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great choices)

For the Streusel Topping

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup neutral oil
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake (Step-by-Step)

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper or grease it well with nonstick spray.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon.
3. Whisk the wet ingredients: In a separate large bowl, combine sugar, oil, milk, egg, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
4. Combine wet and dry: Add the dry mixture to the wet and stir just until combined. Don’t overmix! Fold in the grated apple.
5. Transfer to pan: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
6. Make the streusel: In a small bowl, mix the streusel ingredients together with a fork or your fingers until crumbly, like wet sand.
7. Top and bake: Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the batter. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and slice: Let it cool for at least 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or room temp!

Easy Variations & Add-Ins

Here are some fun ways to customize this coffee cake:

• Chopped nuts – Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter or streusel.
• Chocolate chips – Fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for a sweeter version.
• Zucchini twist – Sub the apple with grated zucchini for a sneaky veggie boost.
• Maple drizzle – Mix powdered sugar with a bit of maple syrup for a sweet glaze.

Storage Tips

• Room Temp: Store covered on the counter for up to 3 days.
• Fridge: Keeps for up to 5 days, but bring it to room temp before serving.
• Freezer: Slice and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or microwave for 20–30 seconds.

FAQs About Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of puree?
Nope! Use 100% pumpkin puree — the pie filling has added sugar and spices.

How do I make this in a 9×13 pan?
Double everything and bake for 35–40 minutes. Keep an eye on the center.

What apples are best for grating?
I love Granny Smith for the tartness, but Honeycrisp and Gala also work well.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely — just use your favorite non-dairy milk (like almond or oat).

Is this a healthy pumpkin coffee cake?
It’s lighter than most thanks to the oil and pumpkin. Want healthier? Sub in whole wheat flour or reduce the sugar slightly.

More Fall Recipes to Try Next

If you’re in the mood for more cozy bakes, don’t miss these:

• Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
• Cinnamon Roll Bread – A Sweet Spiced Delight
• Pumpkin Banana Loaf

Let’s Bake Together!

If you make this Pumpkin Coffee Cake, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment below or tag me @RitzyRecipes on Pinterest so I can see your cozy fall bakes. Happy baking, friend!

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