Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of fall with a moist, fluffy texture. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, cozy family dinners, or just a sweet indulgence, this cake is a showstopper. With its rich pumpkin flavor and creamy frosting, it’s sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also offers a guilt-free dessert option that everyone can enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Moist: This cake boasts a perfect texture that melts in your mouth, thanks to the combination of pumpkin puree and dairy-free ingredients.
• Bursting with Flavor: The spice blend of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger creates an aromatic experience that defines fall.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can whip this cake up in no time.
• Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or a casual get-together, this cake fits right into any celebration.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Using dairy-free alternatives ensures that everyone can enjoy this dessert without compromise.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake successfully, you will need some essential tools and equipment. These items ensure an efficient cooking process while helping you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for easy mixing of wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them.
• Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, ensuring your cake has a light texture.
• Baking pan: A good-quality baking pan ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

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!

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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). Ensure it reaches the right temperature before placing your cake inside for even baking.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

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

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the dairy-free milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about five minutes to create buttermilk-like consistency.
2. Add in the pumpkin puree and sunflower oil. Mix well until combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Combine self raising flour, caster sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger.
2. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients:
1. Use your electric mixer on low speed until just combined; avoid overmixing for a lighter cake.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Let it cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

While the cake cools:
1. Beat together dairy-free block butter and dairy-free cream cheese until creamy.
2. Gradually add icing sugar and ground cinnamon while mixing until smooth.

Step 8: Frost Your Cake

Once cooled:
1. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top of your cake using a spatula.
2. Optionally drizzle vegan caramel sauce on top or decorate with orange food gel designs for festive flair.

Now you have made an exquisite Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake that’s bound to be loved by all! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Serving your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy gathering or a festive celebration, here are some delightful ways to enjoy this delicious treat.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair your cake with freshly brewed coffee for a comforting afternoon snack. The warm spices of the cake blend beautifully with the rich flavors of coffee.

Topped with Vegan Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle vegan caramel sauce on top for an extra layer of sweetness. This enhances the moistness and adds a touch of indulgence.

Garnished with Fresh Fruits

• Add slices of fresh apples or pears as a side. Their crisp texture offers a refreshing contrast to the soft cake.

Alongside Dairy-Free Ice Cream

• Serve slices with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a decadent dessert. Choose flavors like vanilla or caramel to complement the pumpkin spice.

Decorated with Whipped Coconut Cream

• Top the cake with whipped coconut cream for a light and airy finish. This adds a delicious creamy element that balances the spices.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

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

• Measure ingredients accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure precision in your baking. This affects the texture and taste of your cake.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let your dairy-free milk and butter sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing. This helps create an evenly mixed batter.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense results.

• Check doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done. Avoid opening the oven door too soon, as this can cause sinking.

• Cool completely before frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool fully before adding frosting. This prevents melting and keeps the layers intact.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can enhance its flavors and create an inviting spread. Here are some excellent options:

1. Spiced Apple Compote: A warm apple compote flavored with cinnamon complements the spiced notes of the cake beautifully.

2. Maple Glazed Pecans: Crunchy pecans drizzled with maple syrup add nutty sweetness, creating a delightful contrast in texture.

3. Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These sweet potatoes bring warmth and earthiness that pairs well with pumpkin spice.

4. Vegan Cheese Platter: An assortment of vegan cheeses offers savory options that balance out the sweetness of the cake.

5. Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai tea filled with spices harmonizes perfectly with the flavors in your pumpkin spice cake.

6. Salad with Maple Vinaigrette: A fresh salad dressed in maple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.

7. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and freshness alongside each slice.

8. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy macaroons offer another layer of flavor while keeping things light and airy on your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking a Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the vinegar: Not adding apple cider vinegar can affect the cake’s texture. This ingredient helps activate the baking soda and gives moisture.
• Using the wrong flour: Always use self-raising flour as specified. Substituting with other types can result in a denser cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough texture. Stir just until ingredients are combined for the best results.
• Neglecting to measure accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale for precise measuring.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Make sure it is completely cooled before refrigerating.

Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

• Freeze slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake:

Can I substitute pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use homemade puree or other fruit purees like applesauce, though this may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I know when my cake is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready!

What frosting goes well with Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake?

A cream cheese frosting works beautifully, but you could also try coconut whipped cream for a lighter option.

Can I make this as cupcakes instead?

Absolutely! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 18-20 minutes for delicious pumpkin spice cupcakes.

How should I decorate my Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake?

Consider using vegan caramel sauce drizzled over the top or sprinkle with cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize it with different frostings or toppings according to your taste. Give it a try, and enjoy the cozy flavors of fall all year round!