Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is the ultimate dessert for fall and beyond. With its moist, spiced layers and creamy frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from Thanksgiving to birthdays. It stands out with its rich pumpkin flavor complemented by warm spices, making it a favorite among both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Spiced: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a warm, comforting flavor that celebrates the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this cake in no time, even if you’re a beginner in baking.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any celebration or casual gathering, this cake can be served alone or dressed up with caramel sauce and creative decorations.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Using dairy-free options means everyone can enjoy a slice without compromising on taste or texture.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant orange frosting paired with elegant decorations makes this cake visually stunning.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Baking pan
• Electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your wet and dry ingredients without any mess.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy texture in your batter quickly.

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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
• Vegan caramel sauce – optional

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease your baking pan with a bit of sunflower oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the dairy-free milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to curdle slightly.
2. Add pumpkin puree and sunflower oil to the mixture. Whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Mix together self-raising flour, caster sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger.
2. Whisk until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture:
1. Stir gently until just combined; avoid over-mixing.
2. Pour the batter into your prepared pan.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Place the pan in your preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While waiting for the cake to cool:
1. In a bowl, beat together dairy-free block butter and dairy-free cream cheese until fluffy.
2. Gradually add icing sugar and ground cinnamon while mixing until smooth.
3. Adjust consistency with a bit more icing sugar if needed.

Step 8: Decorate Your Cake

Once cooled:
1. Spread frosting generously on top and sides.
2. Use orange food gel for decoration or dust cocoa powder as desired.
3. Drizzle vegan caramel sauce if you like!

Enjoy sharing this delightful Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake with family and friends!

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you serve it at a gathering or indulge in a slice alone, the following suggestions will enhance your experience.

Coffee Pairing

• Espresso – The bold flavor of espresso complements the spices in the cake beautifully.
• Pumpkin Spice Latte – For a seasonal touch, pair your cake with this popular coffee drink.

Ice Cream Accompaniment

• Dairy-Free Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich contrast to the spiced cake.
• Coconut Sorbet – This refreshing option balances the warm flavors without dairy.

Toppings and Sauces

• Vegan Caramel Sauce – Drizzle this optional sauce over your slice for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Whipped Coconut Cream – Light and fluffy, this topping enhances the moistness of the cake.

Festive Garnishes

• Candied Pecans – Sprinkle these crunchy nuts on top for added texture and flavor.
• Edible Flowers – Use these as a beautiful garnish that adds color and elegance to your presentation.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

To ensure your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Spices – Freshly ground spices provide more flavor than pre-ground options.
• Room Temperature Ingredients – Allow ingredients like dairy-free milk and butter to reach room temperature for better mixing.
• Don’t Overmix Batter – Mix just until combined; overmixing can result in a dense cake.
• Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when your cake is done baking.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting – Allow your cake to cool thoroughly to avoid melting your frosting.

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 great options to consider:

1. Chai-Spiced Tea – This warm beverage complements the spices in the cake perfectly.
2. Roasted Apples – Sweet, caramelized apples add a fruity element that pairs nicely with pumpkin flavors.
3. Nutty Granola – Serve with yogurt or alone for added crunch and wholesome goodness.
4. Carrot Sticks with Hummus – A healthy side that balances sweetness with savory flavors.
5. Sweet Potato Fries – These crispy treats provide a delicious contrast to the soft cake.
6. Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn – A fun snack that echoes the spice theme of your dessert.
7. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness alongside the rich cake.
8. Chocolate Almond Cookies – A delightful sweet treat that pairs well without overshadowing the main dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can be simple, but here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Bold phrase: Skipping the vinegar – Vinegar is crucial for activating the baking soda and creating a light texture. Always include it in your mix.

• Bold phrase: Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for the best results.

• Bold phrase: Not measuring ingredients accurately – Using too much or too little of any ingredient can affect consistency. Use proper measuring cups/spoons for accuracy.

• Bold phrase: Ignoring oven temperature – Make sure your oven is preheated to the right temperature to ensure even baking. Use an oven thermometer if needed.

• Bold phrase: Forgetting to cool before frosting – If you frost a warm cake, the frosting will melt. Allow your cake to cool completely before adding any icing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The cake will last 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 quality.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes this Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake special?

This cake is moist, richly spiced, and topped with creamy vegan frosting, making it perfect for any fall occasion!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes! Just ensure it’s cooked and blended until smooth before adding it to your batter.

Is the frosting nut-free?

Yes! The frosting uses dairy-free cream cheese and does not include nuts, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.

How can I customize my Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake?

Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips into the batter for extra texture or flavor!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute self-raising flour with gluten-free flour mixes designed for baking, ensuring you adjust other ingredients accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is not only delightful but also versatile. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!