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Fall is here, and it’s time to savor the flavors of the season! If you love the warm, cozy taste of pumpkin spice, you’re in for a treat. This Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake is a must for your fall gatherings! With easy steps and simple ingredients, you can impress your friends and family. Get ready to dive into the recipe that combines the best of autumn’s flavors with a delightful crumble topping. Let’s bake something special together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Cozy Flavors: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting flavor profile that’s perfect for fall.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is a breeze to whip up.
- Delicious Crumble Topping: The oat-based crumble adds a delightful texture and sweetness that complements the moist cake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon treat, this cake is sure to impress!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake
To make a delicious pumpkin spice crumble cake, you will need:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 cup canned pure pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Ingredients for Crumble Topping
For a tasty crumble topping, gather these ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
Common Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ingredients for this recipe based on what you have. Here are some ideas:
– Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a nuttier taste.
– Substitute coconut oil for vegetable oil for a hint of coconut flavor.
– If you don’t have brown sugar, use granulated sugar with a bit of molasses.
– Replace eggs with unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.
– Use gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free cake.
These swaps still keep the cake tasty and enjoyable. Feel free to get creative!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Batter
To make the batter, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Add in 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well until combined.
In another bowl, mix 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Pour this batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
Making the Crumble Topping
For the crumble topping, take a medium bowl. Combine 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/3 cup of brown sugar. Then, add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix these dry ingredients well. Next, cut in 1/4 cup of cold unsalted butter, cubed. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until it becomes crumbly. This will add a lovely texture to your cake.
Baking and Cooling the Cake
Now it’s time to bake. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cake batter in the pan. Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the sweet aroma filling your kitchen!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Achieving Moist Cake
To make a moist cake, use canned pumpkin puree. This adds moisture and flavor. Also, do not overmix the batter. Mix just until ingredients blend. Overmixing makes the cake tough. Use oil instead of butter for moisture. Vegetable oil keeps the cake soft. Let the eggs sit at room temperature too. Room temperature eggs mix better and help with texture.
How to Improve the Flavor Profile
Enhance the flavor by adding extra spices. Consider using nutmeg or ginger for warmth. You can also add a splash of maple syrup for sweetness. If you want a deeper flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of light. Don’t forget to taste the batter. Adjust spices based on your preference. This way, you’ll create a cake that truly shines.
Best Practices for Crumble Texture
For the best crumble, use cold butter. Cold butter creates a nice, flaky texture. Cut the butter into small cubes and mix it into the dry ingredients. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine. You want the mixture to be crumbly but not too fine. A mix of larger and smaller bits gives the topping a nice crunch. Finally, sprinkle the crumble evenly over the batter. This ensures every bite has that delicious topping.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Pie Spice: For the best flavor, consider making your own pumpkin pie spice blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Chill the Butter: Ensure your butter for the crumble topping is cold to create a better texture; it will help achieve that perfect crumbly topping.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Variations
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake
You can make this cake gluten-free. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Look for blends that contain xanthan gum for the best texture. This switch keeps the cake fluffy and moist. Your guests will love it, and they won’t even know it’s gluten-free!
Alternatives for Dietary Restrictions (Vegan, Nut-Free)
To make a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a nut-free option. This keeps the cake moist and adds a hint of coconut flavor.
Flavor Variations (Chocolate, Nut, or Fruit Add-ins)
You can add your favorite flavors to this cake. For a chocolate twist, fold in half a cup of chocolate chips. If you want some crunch, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. For a fruity touch, mix in half a cup of diced apples or pears. Each option gives a new layer of flavor and a special twist to the classic recipe.
Storage Info
How to Store Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake
To keep your pumpkin spice crumble cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. This method helps maintain its moistness and flavor. You can leave the cake at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to save it longer, refrigeration is best. Just remember to wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap first.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this cake if you want to keep it for later. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This double layer prevents freezer burn. You can freeze the cake for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Tips for Reheating the Cake
To reheat your pumpkin spice crumble cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. This will warm it up without drying it out. You can also use the microwave if you need a quicker option. Heat a slice for about 10-15 seconds, checking to prevent overheating. Enjoy it warm, maybe with a dollop of whipped cream!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just cook and puree it first. Cut a pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, and roast it until soft. Then, scoop out the flesh and blend it until smooth. Fresh pumpkin may give a lighter flavor.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
To prevent sticking, grease the pan well with butter or non-stick spray. You can also dust the greased pan with flour. This creates a barrier between the cake and the pan. Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before removing it.
What should I serve with Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake?
You can serve this cake with a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds extra flavor. Vanilla ice cream pairs nicely too. You can also enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
You learned about making a delicious Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake. We covered all the ingredients, from the cake to the crumble. You now know how to tweak the recipe for different diets and flavors. Proper storage tips keep the cake fresh longer. Remember, using fresh pumpkin can add a tasty twist. With these steps, your cake will be moist and flavorful. Enjoy baking and sharing this treat with friends and famil
Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake
A delightful cake infused with pumpkin and warm spices, topped with a crunchy crumble.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 250 kcal
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup canned pure pumpkin puree
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup rolled oats
- 0.33 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.33 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 0.25 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined (do not overmix).
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
For the crumble topping, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Add cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until crumbly.
Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the cake batter in the pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar and serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Keyword cake, dessert, fall, pumpkin, spice
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