Get ready, Citrus Heights! It’s time to embrace the cozy vibes of fall with a dessert that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. We’re talking about the Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake, a great treat that might just become your new Thanksgiving tradition. You can find this recipe and more in our Thanksgiving Guide 2024 – because we’re all about keeping you in the loop!

The Scoop on This Scrumptious Cake

Picture this: a moist, pumpkin-packed cake topped with a crunchy, spicy crumb that’s so good you might be tempted to eat it on its own. This isn’t just any old cake – it’s a flavor explosion that’ll have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds, we won’t judge).

Ingredients: The Stars of the Show

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Let’s Get Baking!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.
2. Start with the crumb topping. Mix the flour, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a medium bowl. Pour in the melted butter and stir until it resembles wet sand. Set this aside—try not to eat it all before it goes on the cake!
3. Now for the cake batter. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves in a large bowl.
4. Mix the pumpkin puree, oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth in another bowl.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix – we’re not making bread here!
6. Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter, covering every inch. You want that crumbly goodness in every bite!
7. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your neighbors might knock on your door.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before cutting. If you can wait that long, that is.

Why This Cake is a Citrus Heights Must-Try

Look, we know Citrus Heights isn’t exactly known for its chilly fall weather. But that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy all the cozy flavors of the season! This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is perfect for those slightly cooler evenings when you want to pretend you’re in a cabin in the woods, wrapped in a blanket by the fire.

Plus, it’s a great way to use that can of pumpkin puree sitting in your pantry since last Thanksgiving. We’ve all been there, right?

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delicious on its own, but why stop there? Here are some ways to take it to the next level:

• Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between hot and cold is the chef’s kiss.
• Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top because more sugar is always a good idea.
• Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea. It’s the perfect excuse to have cake for breakfast.

Make It a Citrus Heights Community Event

Why not turn this baking adventure into a community event? Gather your neighbors for a Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake bake-off. You could even set it up at the Rusch Park Community Center (7801 Auburn Blvd, Citrus Heights, CA 95610) on a Saturday afternoon. Just imagine the smell of pumpkin spice filling the air as everyone shows off their baking skills.

The Final Slice

So there you have it, Citrus Heights – your new favorite fall dessert. This Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake is more than just a treat; it’s a way to bring people together, celebrate the season, and indulge in some seriously good eats. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a potluck with friends, or just because it’s Tuesday, this cake is sure to be a hit.

Remember, this recipe and more fall favorites are found in our Thanksgiving Guide 2024. So preheat those ovens, grab your mixing bowls, and get ready to fill your home with autumn’s warm, spicy scent. Happy baking, Citrus Heights!

Source: bonappetit.com
Header Image Source: Michal Balog on Unsplash