Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is a delightful treat that will elevate any occasion. Perfectly moist and infused with rich spices, this cake features silky caramel and is topped with creamy vegan cream cheese frosting. Whether for a cozy gathering, Thanksgiving celebration, or just to indulge yourself, this cake is your go-to recipe for all pumpkin lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of spices and pumpkin puree creates a rich flavor profile that keeps every bite moist.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking this cake is a breeze for everyone.
• Versatile for Occasions: Suitable for holidays, birthdays, or even just a sweet treat at home!
• Dairy-Free Delight: Enjoy the creamy texture of the frosting without any dairy products.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings or decorations to make it uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients evenly without mess.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, saving time and effort.
• Baking pan: A sturdy pan ensures even cooking and easy removal of the cake once baked.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

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
• Vegan caramel sauce – optional

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures an even bake for your cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the dairy-free milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to create buttermilk.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the self raising flour, caster sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture along with sunflower oil and pumpkin puree. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together dairy-free block butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add icing sugar and ground cinnamon while mixing on low speed until well incorporated.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, spread the frosting over the cake evenly. Use orange food gel or cocoa powder to decorate as desired.

Enjoy this Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake at your next gathering!

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or just indulging on a cozy afternoon, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cake experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve slices of the cake on individual plates with a dollop of vegan whipped cream for added creaminess.
• Dust the top with cocoa powder for a beautiful contrast against the orange frosting.

Festive Garnish

• Decorate with edible flowers or fresh leaves to bring a touch of nature to your dessert display.
• Top with pumpkin seeds for an added crunch and visual appeal.

Pairing with Beverages

• Enjoy alongside a cup of spiced chai tea which complements the flavors perfectly.
• A glass of apple cider can enhance the autumn vibes while balancing the sweetness.

Shareable Dessert Board

• Create a dessert board by slicing the cake into bite-sized pieces and adding other treats like vegan chocolate truffles.
• Include some fresh fruits, such as apples or pears, to offer refreshing contrasts.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

To achieve the ultimate Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to pre-ground ones.
• Measure accurately: Make sure to measure your flour and sugar precisely for optimal texture and moisture.
• Mix gently: Over-mixing can lead to a dense cake; mix until just combined for lightness.
• Cool completely: Allow your cake layers to cool before frosting them to prevent melting.
• Storage matters: Keep your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some delicious options:

1. Cinnamon Apples: Sauté sliced apples in cinnamon and a bit of sugar until tender for a warm side.
2. Maple Roasted Carrots: Toss carrots in maple syrup and roast until caramelized; their sweetness pairs well with the cake.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: A light chia pudding made with almond milk adds creaminess without overpowering the cake’s flavors.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with citrus vinaigrette balances out the richness of the cake.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a savory crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet dessert.
6. Vegan Ice Cream: Serve scoops of vegan vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side for extra indulgence.
7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich cake.
8. Toasted Nuts: A small bowl of toasted pecans or walnuts offers an earthy crunch that enhances each bite of cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use precise measurements for your vegan pumpkin spice cake. A kitchen scale can help ensure you’re using the right amounts.

• Using stale spices: Fresh spices can elevate your cake’s flavor. Check the expiration date and replace any old spices before baking.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Skipping the vinegar: The apple cider vinegar reacts with baking soda, helping the cake rise. Don’t skip this ingredient for the best results.

• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s accurate, as incorrect temperatures can affect baking time and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 20-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat until warmed, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake that you might find helpful.

Can I use other types of flour for this Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake?

Yes, you can substitute self-raising flour with all-purpose flour by adding additional baking powder and bicarbonate of soda.

How do I make this Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour while keeping all other ingredients the same.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake?

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

What if I want a different frosting?

You can swap out the cream cheese frosting with coconut whipped cream or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and plant-based milk.

Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?

Yes, this Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is perfect for gatherings like Thanksgiving or birthday celebrations due to its rich flavors and festive appeal.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite mix-ins or changing up the frosting. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress friends and family!