Pumpkin Coffee Cake

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is the ideal treat for fall! It’s a delightful blend of spices and pumpkin that creates a moist, flavorful cake. The crunchy topping adds an irresistible texture, making it perfect for breakfast or dessert. Enjoy this cake with your favorite cup of coffee or tea, and impress your friends and family with its deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Flavorful Experience: Enjoy the warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor that captures the essence of autumn.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or dessert at gatherings.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Made without any animal products, this cake is suitable for those following a vegan diet.
• Perfectly Spiced Topping: The crunchy streusel topping adds a delightful sweetness and texture.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pumpkin Coffee Cake, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Fork for streusel mixing

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients effectively while allowing enough space to mix without spills.
• Whisk: A whisk helps aerate the batter and ensures all ingredients are well combined for a fluffy cake.
• Fork for streusel mixing: Using a fork allows you to mix the streusel ingredients easily, achieving the desired crumbly texture.

Ingredients

This Vegan Pumpkin Coffee Cake is the ultimate fall dessert! It’s perfectly spiced, full of pumpkin flavor, and the crunchy sweet topping is to die for. Enjoy with a cup of hot coffee or tea.

For the Cake

• 3 cups all purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin pureé
• 1/2 cup neutral flavored oil (I used avocado oil)
• 1 cup unsweetened soy milk
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping

• 1/2 cup vegan butter, melted
• 1/2 cup all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

For the Optional Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened soy milk
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch cake pan to prepare it for baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and granulated sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the pumpkin puree, oil, soy milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture:
– Stir gently with a large spoon until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep your cake light and fluffy.

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Pour the prepared batter into your greased cake pan:
– Set aside while you make the streusel topping.

Step 6: Make Streusel Topping

In a medium bowl:
– Mix together melted vegan butter, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice using a fork until crumbly. Use your hands if needed.

Step 7: Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle the streusel mixture evenly over the batter in the pan:
– Place in preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Step 8: Optional Glaze

If desired:
– Stir together powdered sugar, soy milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Drizzle over cooled coffee cake before serving.

Step 9: Storage Tips

Store any leftover coffee cake at room temperature covered well for about 2 days. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen if needed but is best served fresh.

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Serving Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a delightful experience, especially during the fall season. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or as a dessert, here are some delicious ways to serve your cake.

Pair with Coffee

• A hot cup of coffee enhances the flavors of the cake. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness perfectly.

Add a Scoop of Vegan Ice Cream

• Top each slice with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast that melts into the warm cake.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh slices of apple or pear add a refreshing crunch and complement the spices in the coffee cake beautifully.

Drizzle with Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup adds an extra layer of sweetness and a touch of autumn flavor to your serving.

Enjoy with Herbal Tea

• Pairing your coffee cake with herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, creates a soothing and warm experience.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Perfecting your Pumpkin Coffee Cake is easy when you keep these tips in mind. Small adjustments can lead to big improvements!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh pumpkin puree and properly measured ingredients for the best flavor and texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer if needed; incorrect temperatures can lead to uneven baking.

• Cool Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding glaze. This prevents it from melting away into the cake.

• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Pumpkin Coffee Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Chia Seed Pudding – A creamy, nutritious option that complements the richness of the cake.
2. Fruit Salad – A medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside your coffee cake.
3. Vegan Yogurt Parfait – Layer vegan yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing contrast.
4. Spiced Nuts – Crunchy, spiced nuts offer a savory element that balances out the sweetness.
5. Savory Scones – Consider making herbed scones as a contrasting savory treat next to the sweet coffee cake.
6. Smoothies – A refreshing smoothie made with bananas or berries provides an energizing drink option.
7. Cinnamon Apples – Warm cinnamon apples create an inviting aroma and pair well with pumpkin flavors.
8. Oatmeal Bowl – A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and fruits makes for a hearty accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Coffee Cake, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until combined for a lighter texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precision. Incorrect measurements can affect the cake’s rise and flavor.
• Skipping the streusel topping: The crunchy topping adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for the full experience!
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F. Baking at an incorrect temperature can result in uneven cooking.
• Not checking for doneness: Always use a toothpick to check if the cake is baked through. If it comes out clean, it’s ready; if not, give it more time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pumpkin Coffee Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake vegan?

This recipe uses plant-based ingredients like soy milk and vegan butter instead of dairy or eggs, making it suitable for vegans.

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends if preferred. Just be aware that this may alter the texture slightly.

How do I make my own pumpkin puree?

Simply roast fresh pumpkin pieces until tender, then blend until smooth. It’s an easy way to ensure freshness!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter for added flavor and texture.

How should I serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Serve warm with coffee or tea. It also pairs well with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream!

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pumpkin Coffee Cake is delightful and versatile, perfect for any fall occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or spices according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!