If you love cozy, autumn-inspired desserts that burst with warm spices and rich textures, you are going to adore this Pecan Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe. Imagine a tender, moist cake infused with pumpkin and a delightful blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, topped with a buttery, crunchy pecan crumb that adds the perfect contrast in every bite. This recipe is a celebration of fall flavors in a form that’s both comforting and impressive, whether you’re serving friends at brunch or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee on a crisp morning.

Pecan Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet crucial for creating the magic in your Pecan Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe. Each one plays a distinct role, from the warm spices that bring depth to the pumpkin to the brown sugar that ensures a rich sweetness and the pecans that provide satisfying crunch and texture.

3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for your cake’s soft, tender crumb.
3 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and classic autumn flavor.
1 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds a nutty, cozy spice note to the batter.
1 tsp ground cloves: A tiny pinch enhances the spice complexity without overpowering.
1 tsp ground ginger: Gives a subtle zing for balance.
1 tsp baking soda: Essential for leavening and light texture.
1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise evenly and stay fluffy.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors.
½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without heavy butteriness.
1 ½ cups brown sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness.
3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and enrich the cake.
3 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with sweet, mellow notes.
15-ounce can pumpkin puree: The star ingredient bringing moisture and earthy sweetness.
½ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and richness making the cake irresistibly soft.
½ cup butter, softened: For the crumb topping, creates that irresistible buttery crumble.
1 cup brown sugar: Sweetens the topping with a rich molasses flavor.
⅓ cup all-purpose flour: Helps bind the crumb topping together.
2 tsp ground cinnamon: Sprinkles extra spice into the topping’s crunch.
1 cup chopped pecans: Provide a nutty crunch that beautifully contrasts the tender cake.

How to Make Pecan Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure your coffee cake slides out effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This blend of spices will infuse your cake with wonderful autumn flavor and create the flavorful base you’re looking for.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, and sour cream until everything is smooth and well combined. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and earthiness while the sour cream keeps the texture soft and rich.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Slowly add the wet ingredients mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the cake tough. You want the batter to be thick but soft, ready to bake into a tender delight.

Step 5: Pour the Batter into the Pan

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. You’re almost ready for the crowning touch.

Step 6: Create the Pecan Crumb Topping

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon using a fork or your fingers until the mixture is crumbly. Stir in the chopped pecans for that perfect crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake beneath.

Step 7: Add the Crumb Topping and Bake

Evenly sprinkle the pecan crumb topping over the cake batter. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, letting you know the cake is perfectly baked through.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This step is important to let the flavors meld and the texture set just right. Now it’s ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Pecan Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Consider dusting your Pecan Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of homemade cinnamon glaze to add extra sweetness and visual appeal. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also take each slice to another level of indulgence.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a spiced latte. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Slice the cake into bite-sized squares and serve on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of pecans and pumpkin seeds for snacking. Or layer pieces with mascarpone in a trifle dish for a show-stopping dessert centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Pecan Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is particularly warm, refrigeration will keep it fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy your pumpkin coffee cake any time without sacrificing flavor or texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes to refresh the cake’s moistness and bring out the delicious pecan aroma once again.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! You can make your own puree by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin. However, canned pumpkin puree is consistent in texture and moisture, making it a reliable choice for this coffee cake recipe.

Is it possible to substitute the vegetable oil with butter?

Yes, you can substitute melted butter for vegetable oil, but keep in mind that using butter might make the cake slightly denser and give it a richer flavor.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for cakes. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure.

How long will the Pecan Pumpkin Coffee Cake stay fresh?

Stored properly, this cake will stay fresh for about 3-5 days at room temperature or refrigerated. Beyond that, freezing slices is best for maintaining quality.

Can I double the recipe for a larger gathering?

Definitely! Doubling the ingredients to bake in a larger pan or two 9×13 pans works well, but watch the baking time closely as it might vary slightly depending on your oven and pan size.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Pecan Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe a try—it is one of those incredible fall treats that bring warmth and happiness with every bite. From the luscious pumpkin and spices to the nutty pecan topping, it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on your own. Trust me, once you taste it, this cake will become a beloved go-to in your baking repertoire!