Jump to:
Pumpkin Spice Pecan Streusel
This pumpkin spice pecan streusel combines the warm, comforting flavors of fall into one irresistible dessert. Perfect for family gatherings and holiday celebrations, this recipe delivers layers of moist pumpkin cake topped with a crunchy pecan streusel that creates the ultimate autumn treat. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dessert ready in under an hour.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Budget-friendly recipe using pantry staples that costs under $8 to make, serving 12 generous portions
- Rich in vitamin A from pumpkin puree, supporting eye health and immune function naturally
- Perfect make-ahead dessert that tastes even better the next day, ideal for busy holiday schedules
- Customizable texture with the perfect balance of soft cake and crunchy streusel topping
- Versatile serving options – enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream or at room temperature with coffee
Why This Pumpkin Spice Pecan Streusel Recipe Works
The secret lies in the layered approach that creates distinct textures throughout each bite. By alternating the pumpkin batter with streusel layers, you get pockets of crunchy pecans and brown sugar distributed evenly.
Room temperature eggs blend seamlessly with pumpkin puree, creating a smooth base without lumps. The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg provides that classic pumpkin spice flavor without overwhelming the natural pumpkin taste.
Lightly toasted pecans add depth and prevent them from becoming soggy during baking. The melted butter in the streusel creates those coveted crispy clusters that contrast beautifully with the tender cake.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Pecan Streusel
This dessert hits all the right notes for autumn entertaining. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with the essence of fall, creating that cozy atmosphere everyone craves during cooler months.
Unlike complicated layer cakes, this recipe requires minimal decorating skills while delivering maximum visual impact. The rustic streusel topping looks professionally made without any special techniques.
Health-conscious bakers appreciate that pumpkin provides fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. Pecans contribute healthy fats and protein, making this treat more satisfying than typical sugary desserts.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity (Approx) | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Canned pumpkin puree | 1 cup | Provides moisture and signature fall flavor |
| Large eggs | 2 (room temperature) | Binds ingredients and adds structure |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Sweetens and tenderizes the cake |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Forms the cake’s foundation |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp | Creates lift and light texture |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp | Primary spice for warmth |
| Nutmeg | 0.5 tsp | Adds complexity to spice blend |
| Salt | 1 pinch | Enhances all other flavors |
| Chopped pecans | 0.5 cup (toasted) | Creates crunchy streusel texture |
| Brown sugar | 0.5 cup | Adds molasses depth to topping |
| Melted butter | 0.33 cup | Binds streusel ingredients |
Tools
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9×13 inch baking pan | Perfect size for even baking and serving |
| Large mixing bowls | Separate wet and dry ingredients properly |
| Wire whisk | Creates smooth, lump-free batter |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Ensures accurate ingredient ratios |
| Toothpick | Tests doneness without overbaking |
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Pecan Streusel
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. Prep | Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly |
| 2. Mix wet ingredients | Whisk pumpkin puree, eggs, and granulated sugar until completely smooth |
| 3. Combine dry ingredients | Mix flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in separate bowl |
| 4. Make batter | Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined |
| 5. Prepare streusel | Combine toasted pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly |
| 6. Layer | Pour half batter in pan, add half streusel, remaining batter, then final streusel |
| 7. Bake | Bake 30-35 minutes until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean |
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Toast pecans in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes to intensify their nutty flavor and prevent sogginess
- Don’t overmix the batter once flour is added – this keeps the texture tender and prevents toughness
- Let eggs come to room temperature for 30 minutes before using for better incorporation
- Cool the melted butter slightly before mixing with streusel to prevent melting the brown sugar
- Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly during the last 10 minutes of baking
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Tips
Serve this pumpkin streusel dessert warm or at room temperature. Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
Pair with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For breakfast lovers, serve smaller portions alongside coffee or spiced chai tea.
Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to one week. Freeze individual portions wrapped in plastic for up to 3 months.
Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pumpkin Spice Pecan Streusel
Using cold eggs straight from the refrigerator creates lumpy batter that won’t bake evenly. Always bring eggs to room temperature first.
Overmixing once flour is added develops too much gluten, resulting in a tough, dense cake instead of tender crumb.
Skipping the toasting step for pecans leads to soggy nuts that lose their crunch during baking. Take the extra few minutes to toast them properly.
Opening the oven door frequently causes temperature fluctuations that affect rising and texture. Check for doneness only during the last 5 minutes.
You Must Know
- Pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling are different – use plain puree for best results and flavor control
- Brown sugar should be packed when measuring to ensure the right sweetness level in your streusel
- The batter will look thick – this is normal and creates the perfect dense, moist texture
- Cooling completely before cutting prevents crumbling and allows flavors to fully develop
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Pecan Streusel
Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean presentation. Leave overhang for lifting the entire dessert out.
Make extra streusel topping and freeze it for future use on muffins, coffee cakes, or oatmeal. It keeps for up to 6 months frozen.
Test your spices’ freshness before baking. Old cinnamon and nutmeg lose potency and won’t deliver that signature fall flavor profile.
For richer flavor, substitute half the granulated sugar with brown sugar in the batter. This adds molasses notes that complement the pumpkin beautifully.
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Spice Pecan Streusel
Transform this dessert into a show-stopping brunch centerpiece by serving alongside savory breakfast casseroles and fresh fruit.
Create an autumn dessert buffet featuring this streusel with other pumpkin desserts and seasonal treats.
For intimate gatherings, serve warm squares in bowls with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted pecans.
Pack individual portions for lunch boxes or picnics – this travels well and makes an excellent afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
FAQ for Pumpkin Spice Pecan Streusel
FAQs:
Yes, you can bake this up to 2 days ahead. Store covered at room temperature and it actually tastes better as flavors meld. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Walnuts, chopped almonds, or even pumpkin seeds work well. Toast any substitute nuts for 3-4 minutes to enhance their flavor and maintain the crunchy texture contrast.
Insert a toothpick in the center – it should come out with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.
Yes, but ensure it’s well-drained and smooth. Roast pumpkin, puree until smooth, then drain excess moisture using cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer for 30 minutes before using.
This usually happens when the butter is too hot when mixed, or pecans weren’t toasted first. Make sure melted butter cools slightly and always toast nuts before adding to streusel mixture.
Conclusion
This pumpkin spice pecan streusel delivers everything you want in a fall dessert – warm spices, tender texture, and that irresistible crunchy topping. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potluck dinners, or cozy weekend baking, it’s simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for special occasions.
The combination of nutritious pumpkin, protein-rich pecans, and aromatic spices creates a treat that satisfies both taste and health considerations. With proper storage, you can enjoy this delicious dessert throughout the week.
Whether you’re looking for a special dessert recipe or want to embrace seasonal flavors, this pumpkin spice pecan streusel will become your go-to autumn treat that friends and family will request year after year.
More Easy desserts Recipes:
- Smores Chocolate Dip: Amazing Recipe Ready in 10 Minutes
- S’mores Milkshake Recipe: Amazing Creamy Campfire Treat
- Best Apple Cheesecake Dessert Tacos Recipe – Easy Guide
- Best Fig Mascarpone Tart Recipe – Creamy & Elegant
Recommended
📖 Recipe Card
Pumpkin Spice Pecan Streusel
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 to make, serving 1x
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for pumpkin spice pecan streusel that you’ll love making at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly
- Mix wet ingredients: Whisk pumpkin puree, eggs, and granulated sugar until completely smooth
- Combine dry ingredients: Mix flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in separate bowl
- Make batter: Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined
- Prepare streusel: Combine toasted pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly
- Layer: Pour half batter in pan, add half streusel, remaining batter, then final streusel
- Bake: Bake 30-35 minutes until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean
Notes
- Toast pecans in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes to intensify their nutty flavor and prevent sogginess
- Don’t overmix the batter once flour is added – this keeps the texture tender and prevents toughness
- Let eggs come to room temperature for 30 minutes before using for better incorporation
- Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly during the last 10 minutes of baking
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 385 calories
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: pumpkin spice pecan streusel, recipe, homemade, cooking, food, easy recipe
