Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

This Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is the perfect autumn treat, combining spiced pumpkin flavor with a rich cream cheese layer and a buttery crumb topping. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or special gatherings, this cake stands out with its moist texture and delightful flavors. Whether you’re celebrating fall or simply indulging yourself, this recipe will become a seasonal favorite.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cream Cheese Filling:
• For the Crumb Topping:
• For the Pumpkin Cake:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
• Step 3: Prepare the Crumb Topping
• Step 4: Make the Pumpkin Cake Batter
• Step 5: Assemble the Cake
• Step 6: Bake the Cake
• How to Serve Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
• Enjoy It Warm
• Pair with Whipped Cream
• Add Ice Cream
• Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
• Serve with Coffee or Tea
• Garnish with Nuts
• How to Perfect Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
• Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
• Reheating Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes this Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling special?
• Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
• How do I make my crumb topping more flavorful?
• Can I customize this Pumpkin Crumb Cake recipe?
• How can I tell when my cake is done baking?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The warm spices combined with creamy filling create a comforting taste that embodies fall.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a festive dessert at gatherings.
• Easy to Make: Follow simple steps to achieve a bakery-quality cake at home.
• Impressive Presentation: The marbled effect of the cake makes it visually appealing for any occasion.
• Leftover Friendly: Store slices for up to a week or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can simplify the process and enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-inch square baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth cream cheese filling quickly.
• Spatula: Useful for evenly spreading the batter and filling in the pan.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create the delicious layers of this Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling:

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Pumpkin Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper to make removal easier later.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl:
1. Whip together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is smooth. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl:
1. Combine light brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Pour melted butter over these dry ingredients and mix until you get a crumbly texture. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Pumpkin Cake Batter

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
In another bowl:
2. Mix pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and gently mix until just incorporated.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

In your prepared baking pan:
1. Pour half of the cake batter into an even layer.
2. Spread cream cheese filling over this layer.
3. Dollop remaining cake batter on top of the cream cheese layer; use a paring knife to gently swirl them together for a marbled look.
4. Sprinkle crumb topping evenly over everything to ensure full coverage.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle when shaken gently. Allow cooling completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling!

How to Serve Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

Serving Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling can elevate your fall gatherings and treat your guests to a delightful experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that pair perfectly with this moist dessert.

Enjoy It Warm

• Serve the cake warm from the oven for a cozy dessert that enhances the spices and cream cheese flavor.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness and a light, airy texture.

Add Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream complements the warm cake beautifully, creating a comforting dessert combination.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce adds sweetness and an indulgent touch that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

• Pair the cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack or breakfast treat.

Garnish with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast to the creamy filling.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

Perfecting your Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out amazing every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mix the batter until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing for cleaner pieces.
• Store Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

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Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Crumb Cake can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this fall favorite.

1. Apple Cider Sangria: A refreshing drink made with apple cider, wine, and seasonal fruits that adds a festive touch.
2. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: This salad features roasted squash, greens, nuts, and feta cheese for a savory contrast.
3. Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These sweet-and-savory Brussels sprouts make an excellent side dish that balances the cake’s sweetness.
4. Spiced Hot Chocolate: A warm beverage spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg pairs perfectly during chilly fall evenings.
5. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses that complement pumpkin flavors, such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
6. Savory Pumpkin Soup: This creamy soup adds warmth and depth to your meal while staying within the pumpkin theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Always ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth filling and a better cake texture.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Stir until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining the pan makes it difficult to remove the cake. Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is precise. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy to achieve the best results.
• Ignoring Baking Times: Every oven is different. Check your cake a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store slices in an airtight container.
• The cake will stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it for even warming.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling special?

This cake combines rich pumpkin flavor, creamy filling, and a buttery crumb topping, creating a delightful treat perfect for fall.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains spices and sweeteners. Stick to plain pumpkin puree for the best results in this recipe.

How do I make my crumb topping more flavorful?

Add extra spices like nutmeg or ginger to your crumb topping mixture. This will enhance the overall flavor of your Pumpkin Crumb Cake.

Can I customize this Pumpkin Crumb Cake recipe?

Absolutely! Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter or swapping spices based on your taste preferences.

How can I tell when my cake is done baking?

The center should be set but slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is not only delicious but versatile enough to enjoy any time of day. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite mix-ins or adjusting spices. Don’t hesitate; try making this scrumptious treat today!

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