Warm and Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Recipe

Name: Warm and Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Consider using homemade pumpkin puree.); 2 large Eggs (Ensure they are at room temperature.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Can substitute with melted coconut oil.); 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly option.); 1 tsp Baking Powder; 1 tsp Baking Soda; 1/4 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Cinnamon (Toast spices for enhanced flavor.); 1/2 tsp Nutmeg; 1/4 tsp Ginger; 1/4 cup Butter (Ensure it's kept cold.); 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1/4 cup Sugar; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Can substitute with almond extract.); 2 tbsp Milk (Mix with powdered sugar for glaze.)

Hi I'm Melany

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on October 14, 2025

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As the first leaves begin to fall and pumpkins adorn doorsteps, there’s a craving for cozy treats that warm the soul. That’s where my Ultimate Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake comes into play—a dessert that feels like a hug in every slice. Bursting with nostalgic flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh pumpkin, this cake isn’t just delicious; it’s a celebration of the season. What I adore about this recipe is that it’s not only quick to whip up—ready in just 30 minutes—but it also brings a healthier twist to your dessert table, with gluten-free options available. Imagine serving it warm, drizzled with a sweet vanilla glaze as the aroma wraps you in a comforting embrace. Who’s ready to dive into a slice of autumn bliss?

Why is this cake a must-try?

Comforting Atmosphere: This Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake evokes warm memories of cozy fall evenings, making it perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home.
Easy to Make: In just 30 minutes, you can create a delicious dessert that is sure to impress family and friends without breaking a sweat.
Healthier Indulgence: With options for gluten-free substitutions, you can enjoy a slice guilt-free! It’s a treat that balances indulgence with wholesome ingredients.
Decadent Flavor Profile: Infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and rich pumpkin, each bite delivers a delightful explosion of fall flavors. Partner it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to elevate the experience!
Versatile Serving Options: Whether served straight from the oven or as a decadent bread pudding, this cake adapts beautifully to your preferences. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or explore combinations like my Gingerbread Spice Cheesecake for a delightful dessert spread.

Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Base

Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and a rich, sweet flavor; consider using homemade pumpkin puree by roasting sugar pumpkins.
Eggs – Provide structure and moisture; ensure they are at room temperature for better emulsification.
Sugar (Brown and Granulated) – Sweetens and adds depth; brown sugar contributes a caramel-like flavor. Use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
Vegetable Oil – Creates a moist, tender texture; can be swapped with melted coconut oil for a tropical hint.
Flour (All-Purpose) – Forms the cake structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make it celiac-friendly.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Ensure the cake rises and creates a light texture.
Salt – Enhances flavor.

For the Spice Mix

Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger) – Infuse the cake with warm autumn flavors; toast spices in a dry pan for enhanced flavor.

For the Crumble Topping

Butter (for Crumble) – Creates a crunchy topping when mixed cold with flour and sugar; ensure it’s kept cold to maintain crumble texture.
Flour (for Crumble) – Works with sugar and butter to create that beautiful crumble; using all-purpose flour is preferred for texture.
Sugar (for Crumble) – Sweetens the topping and balances the spices beneath.

For the Glaze

Vanilla Extract – Adds aroma and flavor; substitute with almond extract for a unique twist.
Milk (for Glaze) – Mixes with powdered sugar to create a sweet glaze.

This Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake promises cozy, delicious moments this fall, making it an irresistible addition to your dessert table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×9 inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter to ensure the cake releases easily. This is an essential first step to prepare for your delightful Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Use a whisk to blend these dry ingredients well, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed. This step will create a flavorful base for your cake, allowing the warm autumn flavors to shine through.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, room-temperature eggs, vegetable oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This beautiful blend will add moisture and richness to your cake, enhancing the overall texture and flavor of your Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix as this could toughen your cake. The batter should be slightly lumpy; this ensures your cake remains tender and delightful.

Step 5: Pour the Batter
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure an even bake. Take a moment to admire the beautiful orange color before moving on. This batter is what will create the delicious pumpkin spice flavors cherished in the Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake.

Step 6: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the additional flour and sugar for the crumble. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this crunchy topping generously over the cake batter, ensuring every bite will have the delightful crumble texture.

Step 7: Bake and Check for Doneness
Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for about 30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean with only a few crumbs clinging to it. The top should be a beautiful golden-brown, signaling that your Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake is ready to come out.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to set. While cooling, prepare the sweet vanilla glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the warm cake for an irresistibly sweet finish!

What to Serve with Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake?

There’s nothing quite like the delightful warmth and comfort of autumn desserts to enhance your dining experience.

Whipped Cream: A generous dollop adds a creamy richness that perfectly balances the spice and sweetness of the cake.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The cold creaminess creates an intoxicating contrast to the warm, spiced cake, making each bite luxurious.
Hot Cider: This cozy beverage enriches the autumn experience, echoing the warm spices of the cake while enhancing its flavors.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of rich caramel brings an added layer of sweetness and indulgence, inviting guests to savor every morsel.
Coffee or Espresso: A hot cup of coffee complements the sweetness and spices beautifully, creating a comforting pairing that’s hard to resist.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, tart berries or citrus fruits refresh the palate and balance the richness of the cake.
Pecan Pie: Serve alongside another fall favorite for an inviting dessert spread that offers variety and celebrated seasonal flavors.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This beloved drink doubles down on the cozy autumn vibe and pairs splendidly with a slice of cake.
Cheesecake Bites: Miniature no-bake cheesecake bites with a hint of spice create a wonderful sweet contrast that pairs delightfully with the crumble cake.
Chocolate Fondue: For the adventurous, dipping pieces of the cake into warm chocolate creates a decadent dessert experience that’s fun and indulgent.

How to Store and Freeze Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its moisture and freshness.

Fridge: For longer storage, keep the cake in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Cover it well to prevent drying out and to keep flavors intact.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, allow thawed slices to come to room temperature, then warm in a preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy your comforting Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake just like fresh!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake ahead of time can save you precious moments on a busy day. You can make the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the crumble topping can also be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just keep it in a separate container to maintain its crunch. When it’s time to bake, pour the chilled batter into the greased pan, sprinkle the crumble topping on top, and bake as directed. This easy prep lets you enjoy a warm, seasonal dessert with minimal effort on those hectic weeknights!

Expert Tips for Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake

Avoid Overmixing: Mix wet and dry ingredients gently to maintain the cake’s tender texture. Overmixing can create a dense result, so stop as soon as combined.
Use Fresh Pumpkin: For the best flavor, use homemade pumpkin puree by roasting sugar pumpkins. It elevates your Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake with freshness!
Cold Butter for Crumble: Ensure butter is cold when making the crumble topping. This helps achieve a crunchy texture that won’t sink into the batter.
Check Doneness Correctly: A toothpick inserted should come out clean. Check in multiple spots to avoid underbaking any parts of your Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake.
Spice Toasting: Toast your spices before mixing; it enhances their flavors and adds an extra depth to the warm notes in your cake.
Cool Before Glazing: Let the cake cool slightly before drizzling with glaze to prevent it from melting and disappearing, creating a beautiful finish.

Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Variations

Feel free to personalize your Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake with these delightful twists, making your dessert uniquely special!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make this cake celiac-friendly. You’ll still enjoy that divine texture and flavor without compromise.
Nut-Free: Replace nuts in the crumble with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture that everyone can enjoy, making this cake approachable for all guests.
Dairy-Free: Substitute vegetable oil and milk with coconut or almond milk for a lighter, dairy-free version. This change brings a tropical hint that complements the spices beautifully.
Sweetener Swap: Try honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar, adding a hint of natural sweetness with a touch of flavor complexity. Just adjust the liquid ingredients slightly!
Chocolate Lovers: Add dark chocolate chips to the batter for a deliciously rich twist. The contrast of pumpkin and chocolate makes for a truly indulgent experience.
Spiced Up: Elevate the flavor by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cake batter for a surprise kick that balances with the sweetness beautifully.
Fruit Forward: Toss in some diced apples or pears to the batter. Their natural sweetness complements the pumpkin and spices, creating a luscious fruit-filled experience.
Mini Muffins: Transform this cake into mini muffins! The baking time will reduce, creating perfect bite-sized treats ideal for sharing at gatherings or freezing for later enjoyment.

Explore these ideas and make this Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake your own! Pair it with an interactive dessert spread featuring my Classic Pumpkin Pie with a Flaky Homemade Crust or the festive Eggnog Bundt Cake with Rum Glaze for delightful festivities.

Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. If possible, use homemade pumpkin puree by roasting sugar pumpkins for a fresher taste. Look for deep orange color without dark spots or signs of spoilage to ensure quality.

What are the best storage methods for leftover cake?
Very! You can store the Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it, and it will last up to a week. Make sure to cover it well to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Can I freeze the Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake? How do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping prevents freezer burn and keeps the flavor intact. You can store it frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it in a preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes.

What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
The more the merrier! A sinking cake often results from overmixing the batter or not using enough leavening agents. Be sure to gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined; don’t overmix! Also, ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! The Autumn Pumpkin Spice Crumble Cake can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, check for allergies related to eggs and nuts if using variations like coconut oil or nuts in the crumble. For those baking for pets, be sure to keep any human food, especially those containing sugar or spices, away from pets, as they can be harmful.