This Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is the ultimate fall dessert! With its warm spices, moist pumpkin-flavored cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and buttery crumb topping, it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a special treat to celebrate the season. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, this cake will surely impress.

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
- With a Hot Beverage
- As Breakfast
- For Dessert
- 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 customize my Pumpkin Crumb Cake?
- How long does Pumpkin Crumb Cake last?
- Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a cozy taste that captures the essence of fall.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even for dessert after dinner.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all levels.
- Creamy Filling: The rich cream cheese layer adds a delightful twist that enhances the overall flavor.
- Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the pumpkin puree and butter, every bite is soft and moist.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8-inch square baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- 8-inch square baking pan: The right size ensures even baking for your crumb cake.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a fluffy cream cheese filling with minimal effort.
- Parchment paper: Makes removing the cake easy without sticking to the pan.
Ingredients
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

How to Make Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl:
1. Whip the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl:
1. Stir together the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Pour in the melted butter over these dry ingredients.
3. Mix until you achieve a crumbly texture. Set aside.
Step 4: Make the Pumpkin Cake Batter
In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
In another bowl:
2. Mix together pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients; gently mix just until incorporated.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
In your prepared baking pan:
1. Pour half of the cake batter into it and smooth into an even layer.
2. Spread cream cheese filling over this layer.
3. Dollop remaining cake batter on top of cream cheese layer; use a paring knife to gently swirl them together for a marbled effect.
4. Sprinkle crumb topping evenly over everything.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Bake in preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until center is set with just a slight jiggle. Allow cooling completely in pan before slicing.
Enjoy your delightful 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 is a delightful way to enjoy this seasonal treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, here are some creative ideas to elevate your experience.
With a Hot Beverage
- Coffee: A hot cup of coffee complements the warm spices in the cake perfectly.
- Tea: Choose a spiced chai or herbal tea for a soothing pairing that enhances the flavor of the cake.
- Hot Chocolate: For a sweet twist, serve with a rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.
As Breakfast
- With Fresh Fruit: Pair slices of cake with fresh berries or sliced bananas for added freshness and flavor.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer pieces of the crumb cake with yogurt and granola for a satisfying breakfast option.
For Dessert
- Ice Cream Scoop: Serve warm slices of cake topped with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds lightness and complements the rich filling.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
Achieving the perfect Pumpkin Crumb Cake involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer can help ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
- Let it Cool Completely: Allowing the cake to cool completely before slicing helps maintain its structure and flavors.
- Add Spices to Taste: Feel free to adjust spices according to your preference for a more personalized flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Crumb Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this delicious dessert.
- Spiced Apple Cider: This warm drink brings out the autumn flavors, making it an ideal match for pumpkin treats.
- Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted pecans or walnuts adds crunch and richness alongside the soft cake.
- Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: These sweet treats echo the flavors in the cake while adding variety to your spread.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their savory nature balances sweetness, creating an interesting contrast on your plate.
- Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: This side dish offers a slightly bitter taste that pairs beautifully with sweet desserts.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides savory notes that complement the sweetness of pumpkin cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially when making a delicious dessert like Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Not using room temperature ingredients: Using cold cream cheese or eggs can lead to a lumpy filling. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth mix.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Combine the wet and dry ingredients just until incorporated for a tender texture.
- Skipping the lining of the baking pan: Not lining with parchment paper can result in a messy removal. Always line your pan for easy serving and cleanup.
- Ignoring the cooling time: Cutting into the cake before it cools can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool completely in the pan for clean slices.
- Not measuring spices accurately: Incorrect spice measurements can alter the flavor profile. Use precise measurements for balanced taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store slices in an airtight container.
- item Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- item Let slices come to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
Freezing Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
- item Wrap tightly or use an airtight container.
- item Freeze for up to 3 months.
- item Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling special?
This cake combines moist pumpkin spice cake with creamy filling and a buttery crumb topping, creating a perfect fall dessert.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, you should use pure pumpkin puree for this recipe as pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugars that will affect the taste and texture.
How do I customize my Pumpkin Crumb Cake?
Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or incorporate chocolate chips for an extra treat!
How long does Pumpkin Crumb Cake last?
When stored properly, it lasts up to one week in the fridge and can be frozen for up to three months.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
This recipe is not gluten-free or dairy-free, but you can experiment with alternatives if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is not only delightful but also versatile enough to enjoy at any time—be it breakfast, dessert, or a festive gathering. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or spices, making it truly your own. Don’t miss out on this seasonal treat; give it a try!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves about 9 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of fall with this irresistible Pumpkin Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Filling. This delightful dessert features a moist pumpkin spice cake layered with a luscious cream cheese filling and topped with a buttery crumb topping. Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a festive treat, this cake is sure to impress at any gathering. With its cozy flavors and delectable textures, it’s the ideal way to celebrate the season. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, every bite promises to be a delightful experience.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- A mix of warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square pan lined with parchment paper.
- Make the cream cheese filling by whipping cream cheese with sugar until fluffy; add egg and vanilla, then set aside.
- Prepare the crumb topping by mixing brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter until crumbly; set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin puree with sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla until combined. Combine wet and dry ingredients gently.
- Layer half the batter in the pan, spread cream cheese filling over it, top with remaining batter and crumb topping.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until set; let cool before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg