This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Coffee Cake has the perfect balance of moist pumpkin and tangy cream cheese that makes each bite a little slice of autumn heaven. The swirl design not only looks beautiful but adds a delicious contrast of flavors with every forkful. Ideal for a cozy brunch or a festive fall get-together, it’s guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite!
Whether you’re serving it for breakfast with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat at a fall party, this cake will impress. The rich, tender pumpkin base combined with the creamy cream cheese layer provides a decadent texture and just the right amount of sweetness. You can even make it ahead of time and let it sit overnight for a more intense flavor. Enjoy a slice of autumn with this irresistible cake that’s perfect for the season!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
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1 ½ cups sugar
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1 cup canned pumpkin
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup vegetable oil
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened
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¼ cup sugar (for cream cheese mixture)
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1 large egg (for cream cheese mixture)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream cheese mixture)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, mix together sugar, pumpkin, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly add vegetable oil and stir until fully combined.
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Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
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For the cream cheese mixture: Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth.
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Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared pan. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over it.
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Add the remaining pumpkin batter and top with the remaining cream cheese mixture. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the two mixtures together.
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Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Why Pumpkin and Cream Cheese Pair So Perfectly
Pumpkin and cream cheese are two ingredients that naturally complement each other. The soft, slightly earthy flavor of pumpkin, combined with its moisture, makes it an excellent base for cakes, muffins, and other baked goods. Pumpkin is inherently sweet, which pairs wonderfully with the tanginess of cream cheese. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious balance that elevates the flavor profile of this coffee cake.
The cream cheese swirl adds a layer of smooth, velvety richness to each bite, providing an irresistible contrast to the slightly spicy, spongy pumpkin cake. The subtle sweetness of the pumpkin and the tang of the cream cheese result in a cake that’s both comforting and indulgent without being overwhelmingly rich.
Perfect for Every Occasion
One of the best things about Pumpkin Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is its versatility. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea. The cake’s soft texture and comforting flavors make it a great choice for chilly mornings when you’re craving something cozy and warming. It also doubles as a delightful dessert for fall gatherings or holiday parties. When you serve this cake, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser, with everyone eagerly asking for the recipe.
Making Pumpkin Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Your Own
While the classic recipe is absolutely delicious, the beauty of this cake lies in its adaptability. You can experiment with different spices, fillings, and toppings to make it uniquely yours. For a more decadent touch, add a sprinkle of crushed nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top of the cake before baking. This will not only add a crunchy texture but also enhance the flavor, adding richness to the already amazing taste of the cake.
You can also make the cake a bit more indulgent by adding a glaze or frosting on top. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a hint of vanilla can add a touch of sweetness without overpowering the cake’s flavors. Alternatively, if you’re looking to keep it lighter, serve the cake as is, letting the natural flavors shine.
Why This Cake Is Great for Meal Prep and Sharing
Another reason to love Pumpkin Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is how well it holds up over time. It can easily be made a day ahead, and in fact, some people believe it tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping or baking ahead for busy weeks. Slice the cake into individual portions and store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for several days.
This cake also makes a wonderful gift. Whether you’re delivering it to a friend or family member, the pumpkin cream cheese combo is sure to brighten anyone’s day. Wrapped in parchment paper with a lovely ribbon, it can be a charming fall gift for neighbors, teachers, or colleagues. Sharing this cake is a great way to spread joy and celebrate the season with others.
Healthier Alternatives Without Sacrificing Flavor
If you’re looking for ways to make this cake a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor, there are a few swaps you can try. For a lower-fat option, you can substitute part of the oil with unsweetened applesauce, which will keep the cake moist while reducing the overall fat content. If you’re trying to cut back on sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. These alternatives can reduce the sugar content without compromising the sweetness.
Additionally, for those who follow a gluten-free diet, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many gluten-free flour options are designed to mimic the texture of regular flour, so your cake will still have the same soft, moist texture. Just be sure to add a little extra moisture or egg to compensate for any dryness that might result from the swap.
Storing and Freezing Pumpkin Cream Cheese Coffee Cake
One of the best things about this coffee cake is how easy it is to store and freeze. If you have leftovers or want to bake in advance, this cake freezes beautifully. Let the cake cool completely, then slice it and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or heat individual slices in the microwave for a warm, fresh-out-of-the-oven experience. This makes it a fantastic treat to have on hand when unexpected guests arrive or when you’re in the mood for a little indulgence.
A Fall Baking Staple
In the world of fall baking, pumpkin is a superstar ingredient. It’s a go-to flavor that everyone craves when the season shifts. Pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread, and pumpkin muffins all have their place in the spotlight, but the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Coffee Cake takes things to the next level. With its comforting combination of flavors and textures, this cake becomes an instant classic.
The fact that it’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying makes it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy the essence of fall in a single bite. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this cake will always be a hit. You’ll find yourself making it again and again as the seasons change, and that’s a testament to how timeless and versatile this dessert truly is.
Conclusion: Why You Need to Try Pumpkin Cream Cheese Coffee Cake
There’s something undeniably special about Pumpkin Cream Cheese Coffee Cake. The rich, spiced pumpkin flavor paired with the creamy cream cheese swirl creates a balance of textures and tastes that’s perfect for any fall occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this cake is sure to elevate your baking repertoire. It’s versatile, easy to make, and will quickly become a fall favorite in your household.
As the weather cools down and the leaves turn, embrace the season with this delectable coffee cake. Serve it for breakfast, share it with loved ones, or simply indulge in a slice while sipping on your favorite fall beverage. No matter the occasion, this cake is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table.