Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for that perfect fall treat that feels like a warm hug in dessert form, look no further than this Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake Recipe. This cake masterfully combines the rich, velvety texture of pumpkin-infused cake with a buttery, cinnamon-spiced crumb topping that adds just the right amount of crunch. It’s sweet but balanced, aromatic, and wonderfully moist every single bite. Whether for a cozy family breakfast or an elegant afternoon coffee break, this recipe is destined to become a cherished favorite you’ll reach for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is part of the fun, and each one plays an essential role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this cake. These simple pantry staples come together to create that irresistible moistness and crumbly topping that define the Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake Recipe.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation for both the cake and crumb topping, providing structure and tenderness.
• Sugar and brown sugar: A duo that sweetens with depth—brown sugar adds moisture and a hint of caramel.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger: Classic warm spices bringing that unmistakable cozy pumpkin flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Softened for the cake and melted for the topping, delivering richness and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents ensure your cake rises perfectly light, not dense.
• Salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors beautifully.
• Eggs: Providing lift and binding all the ingredients into a harmonious batter.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that complements pumpkin wonderfully.
• Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that brings natural moisture, subtle earthiness, and seasonal vibrance.
• Sour cream: Elevates the moisture level while adding a slight tang, making every bite tender and rich.

How to Make Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish or simply line it with parchment paper. This will ensure your cake doesn’t stick and comes out effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

Combine flour, sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Pour in melted butter and mix until crumbly—this topping is where buttery sweetness and a touch of spice come to life. Set aside while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 3: Blend Dry Cake Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. These dry ingredients are filled with warm spices that make the cake irresistibly autumnal and ensure even distribution throughout the batter.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. This step is crucial as it traps air, helping your cake stay moist and tender.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. This ensures even incorporation and keeps the batter silky smooth.

Step 6: Incorporate Pumpkin and Sour Cream

Mix in the pumpkin puree and sour cream until fully blended. Their combined moisture is what gives this cake its famously moist texture and tangy richness.

Step 7: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing here to keep your cake tender instead of dense.

Step 8: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then generously sprinkle the crumb topping over the surface. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—a sign that you’ve nailed the perfect bake.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack to set the texture before slicing. Once cooled, your beautiful Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake Recipe is ready to be enjoyed.

How to Serve Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your slice with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a simple but elegant finish. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans can add a lovely crunch that contrasts the soft crumb perfectly.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea, highlighting the warm pumpkin spices. If you’re serving it for dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce turns it into a decadent treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering slices with cream cheese frosting between for a lavish pumpkin crumb cake parfait, or cut the cake into bars and wrap individually for festive grab-and-go treats. Presentation can be as playful as the season itself!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain moisture and freshness.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven to bring back that fresh-baked aroma and soft texture. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out your delicious cake.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this cake?

Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly, and it’s the standard for consistency and flavor in this Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake Recipe.

What if I don’t have sour cream? Can I substitute it?

You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk in equal amounts. Each adds moisture and a slight tang that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour in place of all-purpose flour. Just make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How important is the crumb topping?

The crumb topping is a signature element of this Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake Recipe. It adds a delightful texture and extra sweetness that perfectly contrasts the soft cake underneath, so I highly recommend not skipping it.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even semi-sweet chocolate chips can be folded into the batter for added texture and flavor—feel free to make this Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake Recipe your own.

Final Thoughts

This Moist Pumpkin Crumb Cake Recipe is genuinely a must-try for anyone who loves cozy, flavorful bakes with a perfect balance of crumbly topping and tender cake. It’s easy enough for an afternoon treat yet special enough for guests. Once you’ve tried it, I guarantee it will become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire!

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