There is something truly magical about a Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake that feels like a warm hug on a cool autumn morning. This cake combines the rich, comforting flavors of pumpkin and the crunchy, buttery goodness of pecans into a moist, tender crumb topped with a spiced streusel that makes every bite sing. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and nutty, making it an irresistible treat whether you’re stirring your morning coffee or indulging in an afternoon snack. Trust me, once you try this Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake, it will quickly become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake comes together with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role. The flour and sugar create the base and sweetness, pumpkin puree lends moisture and that gorgeous orange hue, while pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon bring that cozy, warming flavor. The chopped pecans add crunch and depth, making this cake more than just your average coffee cake—it’s a full on fall celebration in every slice!

2 cups flour, spooned and leveled: Provides structure and lightness to the cake.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness without overpowering pumpkin’s natural earthiness.
2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise for a tender crumb.
1/2 tsp salt: Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice: The secret to that iconic fall flavor—warm, spiced, and comforting.
1 cup pumpkin puree: Moisturizes the cake and infuses it with vibrant color and subtle sweetness.
1/2 cup milk: Adds tenderness and moisture to the batter.
1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft for days.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and rounds out the profile.
Topping – 1/2 cup brown sugar: Creates a deep, caramel-like sweetness for the streusel.
Topping – 2 tbsp melted butter: Binds the streusel together and adds richness.
Topping – 2 tbsp flour: Gives the streusel body and a slight crunch.
Topping – 2 tsp cinnamon: Adds warm spice notes to complement the pumpkin.
Topping – 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Adds irresistible crunch and nutty flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit—warm ovens mean even baking and perfect rise. In a large bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and that aromatic pumpkin pie spice. Once combined, stir in the pumpkin puree, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until everything is well incorporated into a smooth, thick batter that smells like fall in a bowl.

Step 2: Spread the Batter

Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan lightly to ensure your cake doesn’t stick. Pour the luscious batter into the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a nice level surface. This is the base of your Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake, so making it uniform helps the topping layer seal in perfectly.

Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping

Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl—it only takes seconds but makes all the difference. Stir in the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until everything is combined into a crumbly mixture. Gently fold in the chopped pecans for that essential crunch and toasted flavor.

Step 4: Add the Streusel and Bake

Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the top of the pumpkin batter. For an extra delightful texture, lightly poke the streusel into the batter in a few spots with your fingertip, making little pockets of cinnamon-pecan goodness inside the cake. Bake your Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake for 30 to 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake

Garnishes

When serving your Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake, consider dusting a little powdered sugar on top for a delicate, snowy effect that highlights the warm colors underneath. A drizzle of maple syrup or a small pat of softened butter can also elevate each slice, making every bite melt in your mouth with luscious detail.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs beautifully with simple sides like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. It also shines alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even warm spiced cider to deepen the autumn vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunch gatherings or gift-giving, cut the cake into small squares and serve it on a rustic wooden board with pecans scattered around. You can also turn it into a layered parfait, combining chunks of Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake with cinnamon-spiced yogurt and fresh fruit for a visually stunning and delicious dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake tightly to keep it moist. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, pop it in the fridge, where it will keep well for about a week and maintain its soft texture.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to a month, allowing you to enjoy the warm spices anytime you want a comforting treat.

Reheating

To bring your Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake back to life, microwave slices for 20-30 seconds or warm them gently in a low oven. This revives the moist, tender crumb and makes the pecan topping wonderfully crisp again.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and offers consistent moisture and flavor for the Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture.

How do I make homemade pumpkin pie spice?

Homemade pumpkin pie spice is easy to mix: combine ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves or allspice. Making your own means you can adjust the flavors to your liking and avoid any additives.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Definitely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts would complement the pumpkin and spices wonderfully in the streusel topping.

What is the best way to prevent the streusel from sinking into the cake?

Poking the streusel lightly into the batter in a few spots helps create pockets of flavor inside the cake and prevents it from sinking completely, giving you delightful texture throughout.

Final Thoughts

If you’re dreaming of a dessert that captures the essence of autumn in every bite, this Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake should be your go-to recipe. It’s easy to make, wonderfully flavorful, and packed with texture from the soft crumb to the crunchy pecan topping. Share it with friends, family, or keep it all to yourself—it’s just that good. Go ahead and give this Pumpkin Pecan Coffee Cake a try; I promise it will become a staple for cozy mornings and special gatherings alike.