Introduction
Is there anything cozier than the warm, inviting aroma of pumpkin and spices wafting from your oven? Honestly, this smell alone signals the start of everything wonderful about fall. Furthermore, it promises a delicious treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Today, we are diving into the ultimate autumnal bake: a moist, flavorful Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake. This recipe delivers that perfect combination of tender spice cake and a buttery, crunchy streusel topping that you will absolutely adore.
So what exactly is Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake? Essentially, it is a beautifully spiced pumpkin cake batter swirled with a cinnamon-sugar ribbon and generously topped with a crunchy pecan streusel. Unlike a standard layer cake, this single-layer wonder is simpler to make but feels just as special. This cake matters because it transforms simple, seasonal ingredients into a spectacular centerpiece for any gathering, from a holiday brunch to a casual weekend breakfast. Moreover, it perfectly captures the essence of fall in every single bite. Our blog focuses on reliable, crowd-pleasing recipes that become instant classics in your home kitchen, and this cake fits that mission flawlessly. For instance, if you enjoy the streusel topping on this cake, you will likely love our classic Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake as well. Ultimately, this recipe uses straightforward baking techniques that yield impressive results, ensuring that bakers of any skill level can achieve success and create a memorable dessert. Additionally, the use of canned pumpkin puree keeps it convenient without sacrificing any flavor. If you are looking for more ways to use that can of pumpkin, our Easy Pumpkin Muffins are another fantastic option.
Why I Love This Recipe
This Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen. Every year, as soon as the leaves began to turn, she would bake this exact cake. I vividly remember standing on a stool, carefully sprinkling the pecan streusel over the batter before she put it in the oven. The anticipation of that first warm slice, enjoyed together with a cup of milky coffee, created my core memory of autumn comfort. Now, I continue that tradition with my own family, and the recipe never fails to fill our home with the same love and warmth. It is more than just a cake; it is a delicious piece of my family’s story.
Health and Nutrition
Why it’s good for your body
This Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake offers more than just incredible flavor; it also provides some genuine nutritional perks. For instance, pumpkin puree serves as the star ingredient, and it delivers a powerful dose of vitamin A. Consequently, this nutrient actively supports healthy vision and a strong immune system. Moreover, pumpkin contributes beneficial fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel satisfied.
Additionally, the pecans in this recipe bring their own set of advantages. These nuts are a fantastic source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health. Furthermore, they add plant-based protein and essential minerals like manganese. Therefore, every slice of Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake delivers a thoughtful combination of wholesome ingredients.
Ultimately, the warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg do more than create a cozy aroma. In fact, they possess antioxidant properties. So, when you choose this Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake, you are treating yourself to a dessert that thoughtfully balances indulgence with well-being.
How it fits in a healthy lifestyle
Enjoying a slice of this coffee cake fits perfectly into a balanced approach to eating. Think of it as a satisfying treat that contributes valuable nutrients, not just empty calories. You can easily pair a smaller portion with a protein-rich breakfast, like a Greek yogurt parfait, to create a complete and fulfilling meal that keeps you energized all morning.
For those managing specific dietary needs, you can adapt this recipe with simple swaps. You can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make it celiac-friendly. If you are exploring more ways to incorporate wholesome ingredients into your baking, our guide on healthy baking substitutes is a fantastic resource. It is all about making choices that work for your body and your taste buds, proving that healthy eating never has to feel restrictive.
Print
Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake
Description
A moist and flavorful pumpkin coffee cake topped with a crunchy pecan streusel, perfect for autumn mornings or holiday brunches.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in pumpkin puree, buttermilk, and vanilla.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Spread batter into prepared pan.
- In a small bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour, and cold butter cubes. Use your fingers to mix until crumbly. Sprinkle streusel evenly over batter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
How to Prepare This Dish
Steps and time-saving tips
First, preheat your oven and prepare your pan. Meanwhile, whisk together all your dry ingredients in one large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, and vanilla; whisk them until they are perfectly smooth. Next, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Remember, do not overmix the batter; a few lumps are absolutely fine. Then, pour half of this lovely spiced batter into your prepared pan. After that, sprinkle a generous amount of your pecan streusel filling over this first layer. Carefully spread the remaining batter on top, and finally, crown everything with the rest of that crunchy streusel. Consequently, you will get beautiful marbled layers in every single slice. Bake until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly before you drizzle the simple glaze on top. For a fantastic time-saving tip, simply mix the streusel and the dry ingredients the night before. Furthermore, you can use canned pumpkin puree for consistent flavor and to save precious prep time. Ultimately, this process is straightforward and delivers a wonderfully moist cake every time.
