Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of fall with a moist, fluffy texture. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations, this cake is topped with creamy dairy-free frosting and offers an irresistible taste experience. You will love how simple it is to make this delicious dessert while impressing your friends and family with its rich flavor and beautiful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Moist: The combination of dairy-free milk and pumpkin puree ensures that each slice is soft and tender.
• Perfectly Spiced: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger creates a warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
• Versatile Frosting Options: Top it off with creamy dairy-free cream cheese frosting or drizzle with vegan caramel sauce for an extra touch.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
• Plant-Based Goodness: Enjoy a delicious dessert that aligns with plant-based eating without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Electric mixer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining your dry and wet ingredients thoroughly.
• Electric mixer: While optional, using an electric mixer can save time and ensure a well-blended batter.
• Baking pan: A 9×13 inch pan provides the perfect size for baking this cake evenly.

Ingredients

This is truly the BEST EVER Pumpkin Spice Cake recipe. It’s moist, perfectly spiced, full of silky caramel and smothered in creamy cream cheese frosting. It’s the ONLY pumpkin cake recipe you will ever need!

For the Cake

• 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

For the Frosting

• 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

Optional Topping

• Vegan caramel sauce

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the dairy-free milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to create buttermilk-like consistency.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together self-raising flour, caster sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while mixing gently. Incorporate sunflower oil and pumpkin puree until well combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased baking pan. Bake in preheated oven for around 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Make Frosting

While the cake cools, beat together dairy-free butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add icing sugar and ground cinnamon until creamy.

Step 7: Assemble

Once cooled completely, spread the frosting on top. Optionally decorate with cocoa powder or orange food gel designs. Drizzle vegan caramel sauce if desired.

With these simple steps in hand, you’ll create an unforgettable Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake that will be loved by all! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you want a simple slice with tea or an elegant dessert for a gathering, here are some serving suggestions.

Pair with Spiced Whipped Cream

• Homemade coconut whipped cream: Light and airy, this topping complements the cake’s spices beautifully.
• Chilled vanilla soy whipped topping: A sweet addition that enhances the cake’s flavors.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced apples and pears: Their crispness contrasts nicely with the moist cake.
• Citrus segments: Oranges or mandarins add a refreshing burst of flavor, balancing the sweetness.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mini vegan cheesecakes: These can provide a rich contrast to the lightness of the pumpkin spice cake.
• Chocolate-covered strawberries: A sweet treat that pairs well with the spiced notes of the cake.

Drizzle with Vegan Caramel Sauce

• Store-bought or homemade: This decadent addition takes your cake to another level, making it even more indulgent.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

To achieve the best results with your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, follow these tips for an exceptional bake.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance flavor and aroma.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Using precise measurements ensures proper texture and taste.
• Check for doneness early: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean for perfect baking.
• Allow cooling time: Letting the cake cool completely before frosting helps maintain its structure and flavor.
• Experiment with frostings: Try different dairy-free cream cheeses or flavored frostings to find your favorite combination.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

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

1. Chai Tea – This spiced beverage harmonizes perfectly with pumpkin flavors, making it a comforting companion.
2. Coffee – A classic choice that balances sweetness; consider using plant-based creamers for added richness.
3. Coconut Macaroons – These chewy treats can add texture while echoing tropical flavors often found in pumpkin desserts.
4. Vegan Ice Cream – A scoop of dairy-free ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the cake’s moist texture.
5. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and lightness alongside the rich cake.
6. Oatmeal Cookies – Soft cookies pair well as they share similar warming spices, creating a cohesive dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can be simple, but common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some key mistakes to watch for:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use the correct measurements for flour and sugar. Too much or too little can affect the cake’s texture.
• Using cold dairy-free milk: Ensure your dairy-free milk is at room temperature. Cold liquids can prevent proper mixing and affect the cake’s rise.
• Skipping the vinegar step: The apple cider vinegar is crucial for creating a reaction with baking soda, which helps the cake rise. Don’t skip this ingredient!
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light, fluffy one.
• Neglecting to check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center to check if it comes out clean. This ensures your cake is perfectly baked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep slices separated with parchment paper to maintain freshness.

Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm slices for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 15-20 seconds, checking often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of pumpkin puree?

Yes! You can cook and puree fresh pumpkin, but ensure it’s smooth and not too watery.

How do I make this cake gluten-free?

Substitute self-raising flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. You may need to adjust liquid ingredients slightly.

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

You can try using coconut whipped cream or a homemade cashew cream as an alternative for frosting.

How long will the Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts about 5 days, while frozen it can last up to 3 months.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Add walnuts or vegan chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is not only delicious but also versatile and perfect for any occasion. Its moist texture and rich spices make it an irresistible treat. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or using different frostings to suit your taste!