Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is the perfect blend of flavor and texture, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or just want to indulge in a delicious cake, this recipe stands out with its moist crumb, warm spices, and creamy frosting. You’ll love how easy it is to make this cake, and it’s sure to impress your friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: This vegan pumpkin spice cake is incredibly moist and bursting with warm spices that create a delightful flavor profile.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this cake without fuss.
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or a cozy dessert at home. This cake fits right into any celebration.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Made with dairy-free ingredients, it caters to vegan diets without sacrificing taste.
• Impressive Presentation: With creamy frosting and optional decorations, this cake looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, you will need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking pan (9-inch round)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing ingredients for a smooth batter.
• Baking pan: Properly sized pans ensure even baking for the perfect rise.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 480ml of dairy-free milk
– 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
– 420g of self raising flour
– 350g of caster sugar
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda
– 1 & 1/2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon of ground cloves
– 2 teaspoons of ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger
– 120ml of sunflower oil
– 100g of pumpkin puree
– 400g of dairy-free block butter
– 80g of dairy-free cream cheese
– 360g of icing sugar
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– Orange food gel
– Cocoa powder
– Vegan caramel sauce – optional

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line your baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
1. The dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about five minutes to curdle.
2. Add the sunflower oil and pumpkin puree. Mix well until combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. The self raising flour,
2. Caster sugar,
3. Baking powder,
4. Bicarbonate of soda,
5. Ground cinnamon,
6. Ground cloves,
7. Ground nutmeg,
8. Ground ginger.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

While the cake cools, beat together:
1. The dairy-free block butter,
2. Dairy-free cream cheese,
3. Icing sugar,
4. Ground cinnamon until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Decorate Your Cake

Once cooled, spread the frosting generously on top of your cake. For added flair, use orange food gel or cocoa powder for decoration as desired.

Enjoy your delightful Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake!

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or just indulging on a cozy evening, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

Classic Slice

• A simple slice of the cake is always a winner. Serve it plain or with a dusting of cocoa powder for an extra touch.

Cream Cheese Topping

• Top each slice with a generous dollop of vegan cream cheese frosting. This adds richness and complements the spices in the cake.

Drizzle with Caramel

• Enhance the flavors by drizzling vegan caramel sauce over the top. The sweetness pairs perfectly with the pumpkin spice.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or chai. The warm beverages enhance the cake’s spices, making for a cozy combination.

Ice Cream Delight

• Add a scoop of dairy-free ice cream beside each slice. The creamy texture contrasts nicely with the moist cake.

Festive Garnish

• Decorate with pumpkin seeds or edible flowers for a visually appealing presentation. This makes it perfect for special occasions.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Creating the perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cake turns out fantastic every time.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to pre-ground ones.

• Check your baking powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise and fluffiness in your cake.

• Measure accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to maintain the right texture and moisture level.

• Room temperature ingredients: Allow ingredients like dairy-free milk and butter to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps create an even batter.

• Don’t overmix: Gently combine ingredients until just mixed to avoid a dense cake texture. Overmixing can lead to toughness.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Pairing side dishes with Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors well.

1. Spiced Chai Latte
   A warm spiced chai latte brings out the pumpkin spice notes beautifully, creating a comforting drink pairing.

2. Apple Crisp
   This warm dessert, made from baked apples and cinnamon, adds a fruit-forward element that balances the sweetness of the cake.

3. Roasted Nuts
   A mix of roasted almonds and pecans provides a crunchy contrast to the soft cake texture, adding an interesting flavor dimension.

4. Coconut Whipped Cream
   Light and fluffy coconut whipped cream serves as a refreshing topping that works wonderfully alongside pumpkin flavors.

5. Maple Glazed Carrots
   These sweet, tender carrots offer an earthy taste that enhances the overall meal while staying within seasonal flavors.

6. Cranberry Sauce
   A tart cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the cake, providing balance with its bright acidity and vibrant color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can be fun, but avoiding common mistakes ensures your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Incorrect measurements: Using the wrong amounts of ingredients can lead to a dry or too dense cake. Always measure accurately for the best results.
• Skipping the vinegar: The apple cider vinegar is essential for activating the baking soda. Don’t skip it; it helps your cake rise beautifully.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your cake tough. Stir just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well they combine. Let your dairy-free milk and butter sit out before using them.
• Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different, so always check your cake a few minutes before the suggested cooking time to prevent overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the cake away from strong-smelling foods to maintain flavor.

Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

• Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date so you know when to enjoy them by.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it for even warming; this takes about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake.

Can I substitute pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use homemade pumpkin puree or even sweet potato puree if needed.

What can I use instead of dairy-free cream cheese?

You could try coconut cream or another plant-based frosting alternative if you prefer.

How do I decorate my Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake?

Consider using fall-themed decorations like edible pumpkins or autumn leaves made from fondant!

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

You can substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend, but ensure it has adequate leavening agents.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is not only delightful but also versatile. With its rich flavors and moist texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or spices! Enjoy this heartwarming treat with family and friends, and bring a touch of comfort to your table.

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Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of fall with this Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, a delightful dessert that perfectly balances moisture and flavor. This cake is ideal for any occasion—from Thanksgiving celebrations to cozy family gatherings. With its inviting aroma of spices and creamy dairy-free frosting, it’s a treat that will impress even non-vegan guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 480ml dairy-free milk
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 420g self-raising flour
• 350g caster sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
• 1 & 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 120ml sunflower oil
• 100g pumpkin puree
• 400g dairy-free block butter
• 80g dairy-free cream cheese
• 360g icing sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Orange food gel
• Cocoa powder
• Vegan caramel sauce – optional

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a 9-inch round baking pan by greasing and lining it with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar and let it sit for five minutes. Stir in sunflower oil and pumpkin puree.
3. In another bowl, whisk together self-raising flour, caster sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and ground spices.
4. Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just mixed—avoid overmixing.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. For the frosting, beat dairy-free butter, cream cheese, icing sugar, and ground cinnamon until smooth. Once cooled, frost your cake.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (105g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg