Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from cozy autumn gatherings to festive Thanksgiving dinners. With its moist texture and perfectly balanced spices, this cake stands out with a rich flavor profile that everyone will love. Top it off with creamy dairy-free frosting for a truly indulgent experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: This cake combines the richness of pumpkin with warm spices for an irresistible taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, baking this cake is a breeze, even for beginners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, or dress it up with vegan caramel or delightful frostings to suit any celebration.
• Perfect for Everyone: Being vegan means it caters to various dietary needs, making it suitable for all your guests.
• Beautiful Presentation: The combination of orange food gel and cocoa powder allows for creative decoration that looks as good as it tastes.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the best Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, having the right tools is essential. Prepare your kitchen with these essential items before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking tin (preferably round)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are vital for combining your wet and dry ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a smooth batter by effectively blending all ingredients together.
• Baking tin: Using the right size ensures even baking and prevents overflow during the rising process.

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: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Tin

Grease your baking tin with some sunflower oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Dairy-free milk
2. Apple cider vinegar

Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it curdles slightly.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Self-raising flour
2. Caster sugar
3. Baking powder
4. Bicarbonate of soda
5. Ground spices (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger)

Ensure there are no lumps.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the wet mixture to the dry mixture along with:
– Sunflower oil
– Pumpkin puree

Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Pour Into Tin and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared tin. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Frost

Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before applying your vegan cream cheese frosting. Enjoy!

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Serving your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can elevate the experience for your guests. Here are some delightful ways to present this moist and flavorful cake.

With Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting

• This classic pairing adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the spiced cake beautifully.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Drizzled with Vegan Caramel Sauce

• A sweet caramel drizzle enhances the cake’s flavors and adds a decadent touch.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Serve slices with fresh apple or pear slices for a refreshing balance to the spiced sweetness.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange pieces of the cake on a decorative platter, surrounded by seasonal decorations like mini pumpkins for a seasonal touch.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Creating the perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your spices are fresh for maximum flavor. Stale spices can dull the taste of your cake.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring tools to get accurate amounts of flour and sugar, which helps achieve the desired texture.

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.

• Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly. An oven thermometer can help ensure accuracy.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can enhance its flavor profile and create a more complete meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, coconut whipped cream adds a tropical twist that pairs perfectly with pumpkin spice.

2. Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea complement the flavors in the cake, making it an ideal beverage pairing.

3. Apple Cider: A glass of warm apple cider enhances the fall vibes and brings out the cake’s spices.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes provides a hearty side that balances the dessert well.

5. Caramelized Pears: These add a touch of elegance and sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with pumpkin flavors.

6. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake, balancing your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Too much or too little can alter the texture and flavor of the cake.
• temperature issues: Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature. Cold ingredients, especially butter and milk, can lead to a dense cake.
• improper mixing: Don’t overmix the batter. This can make the cake tough instead of light and fluffy. Mix until just combined.
• skipping spices: Don’t skip or substitute spices lightly. The unique flavor of this cake comes from the perfect balance of spices, so use the recommended amounts.
• ignoring cooling time: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting it. Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and slide off.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slice on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes to warm through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or it may dry out.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake.

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

You can substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure that it includes xanthan gum for structure.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of pumpkin puree?

Yes! Just roast and blend fresh pumpkin until smooth, ensuring it’s not too watery.

What is the best frosting for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake?

A vegan cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with this cake, enhancing its flavors without overpowering them.

How do I store leftover Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it with various frostings or toppings, making it perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners. Try it out and share your creations!