Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, from cozy autumn gatherings to festive Thanksgiving dinners. This cake is not just vegan; it’s incredibly moist, bursting with warm spices, and topped with a creamy frosting that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a warm and inviting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Halloween, or just a cozy afternoon tea, this cake fits perfectly into any celebration.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Made without animal products, this cake caters to those with dietary restrictions while still being deliciously rich.
• Customizable Toppings: Use your favorite toppings like vegan caramel sauce or colorful frostings for a fun twist on presentation.

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Tools and Preparation

To create your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without any lumps.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a light and airy batter, ensuring your cake rises beautifully.
• Baking pan: The right size ensures even baking and prevents overflow.

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!

Wet Ingredients

• 480ml of dairy-free milk
• 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
• 120ml of sunflower oil
• 100g of pumpkin puree

Dry Ingredients

• 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

Frosting Ingredients

• 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 an even bake as soon as you put in your cake batter.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Batter

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. In another bowl, mix together all dry ingredients: self-raising flour, caster sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, ground spices.
3. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients along with sunflower oil and pumpkin puree.
4. Use an electric mixer on low speed until combined; then increase speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased baking pan:
1. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

While the cake cools:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat together dairy-free butter and cream cheese until creamy.
2. Gradually add icing sugar while mixing on low speed to avoid dust clouds.
3. Add ground cinnamon and blend until fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled:
1. Spread frosting generously on top.
2. Decorate with orange food gel or cocoa powder as desired.
3. Drizzle with vegan caramel sauce if using.

Enjoy your delicious Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake!

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Serving your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can elevate its appeal and delight your guests. Here are some creative ideas to make your cake stand out during any occasion.

Pair with a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the spices in the cake perfectly.
• Tea: A spiced chai or herbal tea can enhance the warm notes of pumpkin and cinnamon.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Dairy-free Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s texture.
• Coconut Ice Cream: Its tropical flavor pairs well with the spice profile, creating a unique dessert experience.

Garnish with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Apples: Their crispness provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cake.
• Pears: Soft, juicy pears can add an elegant touch when arranged neatly on the plate.

Drizzle with Vegan Caramel Sauce

• Caramel Topping: Enhance each slice with a drizzle of dairy-free caramel sauce for added sweetness and richness.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Achieving the perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake involves attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to ensure your cake is a showstopper.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance flavor compared to older, pre-ground options.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated for even baking; an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven textures.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy one.
• Let it Cool Properly: Allowing the cake to cool in its pan for 10 minutes before transferring helps prevent breakage.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Complement your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake with delicious side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great suggestions.

1. Cinnamon Roasted Nuts: These add crunch and warmth, making them an excellent snack alongside your cake.
2. Spiced Hot Apple Cider: This warm beverage enhances the autumnal flavors of pumpkin and spice in your dessert.
3. Carrot Sticks with Hummus: A healthy, crunchy option that balances out the sweetness of the cake.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs nicely, creating a delightful contrast.
5. Green Salad with Maple Vinaigrette: The freshness of greens topped with a sweet dressing complements the cake’s richness.
6. Vegan Cheese Plate: A selection of vegan cheeses offers variety and sophistication alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your ingredients, especially dairy-free milk and butter, are at room temperature for better blending.
• Skipping the vinegar: The apple cider vinegar is crucial for creating a light texture. Don’t omit it; it helps activate the baking soda.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a fluffy one.
• Not measuring accurately: Use kitchen scales for precise measurements of flour and sugar to ensure perfect ratios.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time to prevent overbaking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The cake will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delicious Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, here are some commonly asked ones.

Can I use regular milk instead of dairy-free milk?

You can substitute regular milk if you’re not strictly vegan, but it may alter the recipe’s texture slightly.

What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?

You can use applesauce or mashed bananas as alternatives, though they will change the flavor profile a bit.

How do I make my own pumpkin spice blend?

Combine ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in equal parts to create your own mix!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or swapping spices according to your taste. Perfect for any occasion, this cake will surely delight everyone!