Sourdough Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
• Total Time: 45-55 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 260
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 210mg

Why Make This Sourdough Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Sourdough Pumpkin Coffee Cake combines the rich, warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with the unique tang of sourdough starter. This delightful cake is perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy afternoons with a cup of coffee. The moist texture and aromatic spices will fill your kitchen with the inviting scent of cinnamon and nutmeg, making it an irresistible treat. Not only does this cake taste amazing, but it also puts your sourdough starter to good use, turning it into a scrumptious dessert that everyone will enjoy.

How to Make Sourdough Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough starter
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions:

### Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan to ensure an easy release after baking.

### Step 2: Mixing Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat together until the mixture is smooth and well blended. The colors will blend beautifully, turning a vibrant orange.

### Step 3: Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

### Step 4: Combining Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will help keep your cake light and fluffy. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

### Step 5: Baking

Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake will rise beautifully and develop a golden-brown color.

### Step 6: Finishing

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. The aroma will be absolutely heavenly!

How to Serve Sourdough Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Slice the Sourdough Pumpkin Coffee Cake into generous pieces and serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or dessert. Consider dusting the top with powdered sugar or topping each slice with whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea to enhance the cozy experience.

How to Store Sourdough Pumpkin Coffee Cake

To keep your Sourdough Pumpkin Coffee Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months—just make sure to use freezer-safe packaging.

Expert Tips for Perfect Sourdough Pumpkin Coffee Cake

1. Check Freshness: Ensure that your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best flavor and rise.
2. Pumpkin Puree: You can use canned pumpkin puree or homemade puree. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture if using fresh pumpkin.
3. Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add more cinnamon or mix in some ginger for an extra kick.
4. Avoid Overmixing: To maintain a light texture, mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing may lead to a dense cake.
5. Serving Warm: If you love a warm cake, reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

Delicious Variations

• Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate Twist: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a delightful surprise in every bite.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use homemade sourdough starter? Yes, homemade sourdough starter works perfectly. Just ensure it’s active for best results.
• What can I use instead of pumpkin puree? You can substitute mashed banana, applesauce, or sweet potato puree as alternative options.
• How can I make this cake vegan? Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) in place of eggs and swap vegetable oil for a plant-based alternative.
• Why is my cake dense? Dense cakes typically result from overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Make sure to measure accurately.
• Can I frost this cake? Yes! Cream cheese frosting complements the flavors beautifully, making it even more decadent.

Conclusion

Sourdough Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a delightful dessert that blends the natural tang of sourdough with the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices. Its simplicity makes it easy to prepare while impressing your guests with its rich flavors and inviting aroma. Whether you’re looking for a cozy fall treat or a unique dessert to share, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab your sourdough starter and delight in this wholesome, delicious bake!