Pumpkin Cream Cheese Crumb Cake for Cozy Fall Baking

Craving a cozy fall dessert? This pumpkin cream cheese crumb cake is tender, spiced, and topped with buttery streusel. The creamy middle layer makes every bite irresistible, perfect for gatherings or coffee breaks.

Why You’ll Love Making Pumpkin Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

This pumpkin cream cheese crumb cake feels like a hug in dessert form. Unlike pumpkin pie, it’s easier to slice and share, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering. The pumpkin base is moist and dense, filled with warm spices that bring out the best fall flavors. Then comes the cream cheese layer, which adds a tangy, silky contrast to the sweet cake beneath. Finally, the crumb topping provides that crisp, buttery crunch everyone loves.

Together, the textures create a cake that’s both comforting and exciting in every forkful. Because the recipe comes together with simple pantry ingredients, you can whip it up without fuss, even on a busy day. It’s also versatile, working as both a dessert centerpiece or a sweet morning treat with coffee. For holidays, potlucks, or just a chilly autumn evening, this cake always delivers.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Crumb Cake Ingredients You’ll Need

Pumpkin Cake Base

The foundation of this cake is flour for structure, sugar for sweetness, and pumpkin puree for moisture and flavor. Baking powder and baking soda give lift, while pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon deepen the seasonal taste. A touch of salt balances the flavors. Adding milk, egg, and vanilla brings the batter together into a smooth, tender crumb.

Cream Cheese Layer

This part is what makes the cake special. Softened cream cheese blends with sugar and vanilla to create a creamy, tangy filling. It cuts through the sweetness and adds richness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.

Streusel Topping

The crumb topping combines white and brown sugar with flour, pumpkin spice, and a little baking powder for lightness. Cold butter is cut into the mix to form those classic chunky crumbs that bake into a crunchy, spiced finish. A pinch of salt keeps it balanced.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan and Batter

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and preparing an 8×8 or 9×9 pan with parchment paper or spray. Mix the dry cake ingredients in one bowl. In another, whisk pumpkin puree, milk, egg, and vanilla. Stir wet and dry ingredients together until just blended, then spread the batter evenly in your pan.

Make the Cream Cheese Layer

Microwave the cream cheese briefly if it feels too firm. Beat it with sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Spoon dollops over the batter, then spread gently with a spatula to form an even layer without disturbing the pumpkin base too much.

Add the Streusel Topping

In a bowl, combine both sugars, flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or fork until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer, covering the surface.

Bake and Cool

Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, checking for doneness by testing the pumpkin layer with a toothpick. The cream cheese may stay soft, so focus on the cake portion. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing. Cooling helps the layers set and flavors develop fully.

Baking Tips for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

If you double the recipe, use a 9×13 pan to avoid overflow, though baking time will vary. Sweet potato puree can replace pumpkin with no spice changes needed. For storage, refrigerate the cake to keep the cream cheese layer fresh. It can also be frozen in slices for quick desserts later. To serve, pair with coffee in the morning or top with whipped cream or ice cream after dinner. Refrigerating overnight makes the cake even more flavorful, as the spices and cream cheese meld together.

Make Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Pumpkin Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

This cake is perfect for planning ahead. Once cooled, wrap tightly and store in the fridge for up to five days. Overnight refrigeration not only keeps it fresh but also deepens the flavor. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in foil and sealed in a bag. Thaw them in the fridge before serving, or warm slightly in the microwave for a cozy treat. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than a few hours since the cream cheese layer needs to stay chilled.

Explore Similar Recipes

If pumpkin is on your mind, try learning how to make perfectly crispy air fryer pumpkin seeds for a snack. For a savory dish, check out Halloween pumpkin ale mac and cheese for a festive fall twist. Sweet lovers might enjoy soft and chewy pumpkin oatmeal cookies or an ultra moist pumpkin bread bursting with fall flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin cream cheese crumb cake is one of those desserts that feels both comforting and impressive. The spiced pumpkin base, creamy middle, and crunchy topping work together in perfect balance. It’s simple enough for a weeknight bake yet festive enough for holidays. Whether you share it at a potluck or keep it as a cozy coffee cake at home, this recipe always delivers warmth and joy. Try making it this season, and you may just find it becomes a new fall tradition. You can even save ideas or share with friends through our Pinterest board.

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