As the crisp autumn air settles in, the scent of pumpkin spice wafts through my kitchen, inviting warm memories of cozy gatherings and delightful desserts. Today, I'm excited to share my recipe for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, a soul-soothing treat that brings the essence of fall right to your dining table. This fluffy, moist cake is a breeze to whip up and is perfect for those moments when you crave a sweet indulgence without the guilt. With its rich spices and velvety vegan frosting, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it's freezer-friendly—ideal for those busy weeks when you still want a slice of homemade goodness. Ready to delight your taste buds and make your kitchen the heart of fall festivities? Let's dive into this delicious recipe together!
Why is this Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake a must-try?
Autumn Vibes: This cake captures the warm essence of fall, with spices that evoke cozy moments and gatherings.
Easy-to-Make: No baking mastery needed—each step is simple, making it perfect for novice bakers!
Dairy-Free Delight: The rich and creamy frosting is made entirely from dairy-free ingredients, ensuring everyone can indulge.
Incredible Versatility: Enjoy it at a festive gathering, as a comforting dessert, or even as a delightful treat alongside your morning coffee!
Freezer-Friendly: You can easily make this cake ahead of time and store it for those busy weeks, allowing you to enjoy homemade perfection without the last-minute rush.
Don’t forget to check out my tips on how to create an eye-catching fall dessert table or to pair this cake with your favorite autumn drinks!
Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this warm, delicious Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake!
For the Cake
- Dairy-free milk – 480 ml – Use almond, soy, or oat milk for a creamy base suitable for vegan diets.
- Apple cider vinegar – 2 teaspoons – This adds acidity to your milk, creating a vegan buttermilk that helps the cake rise.
- Self-raising flour – 420 g – Ensures a light, fluffy cake without the need for additional leavening agents.
- Caster sugar – 350 g – Fine sugar that dissolves easily, giving the cake a smooth texture.
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon – Adds extra lift, making the cake even fluffier.
- Bicarbonate of soda – 1 teaspoon – Works with the acidity of the vinegar for a perfect rise.
- Ground cinnamon – 1.5 tablespoons – Delivers the warm, comforting flavor we cherish in fall.
- Ground cloves – 1 teaspoon – A little goes a long way in adding depth and spice.
- Ground nutmeg – 2 teaspoons – Use fresh nutmeg for a more intense flavor!
- Ground ginger – ½ teaspoon – Adds a subtle warmth that complements pumpkin beautifully.
- Sunflower oil – 120 ml – Keeps the cake moist and enriches its flavor.
- Pumpkin puree – 100 g – The star of the show, bringing that quintessential pumpkin taste to this cake.
For the Frosting
- Dairy-free block butter – 400 g – Make the frosting rich and creamy while keeping it plant-based.
- Dairy-free cream cheese – 80 g – Adds a tangy flavor and smooth texture for the perfect frosting.
- Icing sugar – 360 g – This fine sugar creates that heavenly sweetness and smooth finish in your frosting.
- Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon – Amplifies the spiced flavor profile of your frosting.
- Orange food gel – For adding a fun fall color to your decorations.
- Cocoa powder – Also used for coloring your frosting, giving a nice contrast!
- Vegan caramel sauce – Optional – A delicious drizzle that can elevate this cake to the next level of indulgence.
Now that you have all the ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking this delightful Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake—perfect for every fall occasion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (fan). While it's warming up, take three 8-inch loose base cake tins and line them with greaseproof paper. Make sure the paper fits snugly, so it helps your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake release easily after baking.
Step 2: Create Vegan Buttermilk
In a medium bowl, combine 480 ml of dairy-free milk with 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar. Whisk until the mixture is well combined, then let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step transforms your ingredients into thicker vegan buttermilk, which adds moisture and helps the cake rise beautifully.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together 420 g of self-raising flour, 350 g of caster sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda, 1.5 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground cloves, 2 teaspoons of ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon of ground ginger. This blend of spices will bring cozy autumn flavors to your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, so make sure to mix well!
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
To the bowl of curdled milk, add 120 ml of sunflower oil and 100 g of pumpkin puree. Whisk these wet ingredients together until smooth and fully combined. The mixture should be creamy and vibrant, packing all the pumpkin goodness that'll create a moist cake.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the large bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula until just combined, ensuring not to overmix. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy, ready to transform into a delightful Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake.
Step 6: Divide and Prepare to Bake
Carefully divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake tins. Use a spatula to smooth the tops and gently tap the tins on the counter to release any air bubbles. This step will help your cakes rise evenly, creating a lovely fluffy texture.
Step 7: Bake the Cakes
Place the tins in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye out for the cakes; they are done when a knife or skewer inserted into the center comes out clean and they spring back to a touch. The enticing aroma of pumpkin spice will fill your kitchen!
Step 8: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cake tins from the oven and let them cool slightly for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the cakes to a cooling rack to cool completely. This step is crucial, as the frosting will only adhere properly to completely cooled cakes.
Step 9: Prepare the Frosting
In a large mixing bowl, whip together 400 g of dairy-free butter and 80 g of dairy-free cream cheese until creamy and well combined. The texture should be light and fluffy, setting the stage for a luscious frosting that complements your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake.
Step 10: Add Sweetness to the Frosting
Sift in 360 g of icing sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and whip on high speed for about 5 minutes. Look for a smooth, fluffy frosting that’s just sweet enough to perfectly complement the spiced cake. This will create the decadent layer of goodness you need!
Step 11: Assemble the Cake
On a serving plate, lay down the first cake layer and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. For an optional twist, create a small well in the center and drizzle a bit of vegan caramel sauce. The rich flavors will elevate each slice of your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake.
Step 12: Stack and Frost
Add the second cake layer on top and repeat the process, spreading another layer of frosting and optional caramel sauce. Finally, place the last layer of cake on top to complete your tower of deliciousness, ensuring the cake stands tall and beautiful.
Step 13: Apply a Crumb Coat
Carefully apply a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake to catch any loose crumbs. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to set this crumb coat. This step ensures your final frosting application turns out smooth and flawless.
Step 14: Finalize the Frosting
After chilling, remove the cake from the fridge and apply a thicker final coat of frosting. Use a cake scraper or offset spatula to smooth out the edges and create a polished look for your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake. It should look inviting and delicious!
Step 15: Decorate with Piping
Fill a piping bag fitted with a star tip with leftover frosting. Pipe a decorative swirl around the top edge of the cake for an elegant finish. This simple touch adds a homemade charm that’s sure to impress friends and family during your fall gatherings.
Step 16: Color Your Frosting
Divide the remaining frosting into two separate bowls. Color one bowl with orange food gel and a bit of cocoa powder for a vibrant hue, and keep the other chocolatey with cocoa powder. This will allow for fun decorations that celebrate the season.
Step 17: Pipe Little Pumpkins
Using the orange frosting, pipe little pumpkin shapes around the cake's perimeter, and add brown frosting stalks on top of each pumpkin. Feel free to get creative and pipe mini pumpkins on the top edge for extra flair. Your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is becoming a true autumn masterpiece!
Step 18: Slice and Share
Once decorated, slice your beautiful Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake into pieces and share the joy with your loved ones. Each bite will delight with the cozy spices and rich frosting, making it the perfect centerpiece for any fall celebration!
What to Serve with Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake
Embrace the warmth of autumn by pairing this delightful cake with comforting and fresh accompaniments that enhance its vibrant flavors.
-
Crispy Apple Salad: A refreshing mix of crisp apples, mixed greens, and a tangy vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the cake’s rich spices.
-
Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and airy whipped coconut cream adds a luscious texture that complements the cake's moistness and plant-based ingredients.
-
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in a creamy chai latte echo the flavors in the cake, creating a cozy beverage pairing that’s perfect for fall.
-
Roasted Pumpkin Soup: Serve a bowl of creamy pumpkin soup alongside for a comforting meal, linking the flavors and making your meal feel complete.
-
Maple Glazed Carrots: These sweet and earthy carrots provide a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture, perfect for balancing out the sweetness of the cake.
-
Toasty Almonds: A sprinkle of toasted almonds adds crunch and nuttiness, enhancing the overall experience with wonderful texture and flavor contrast.
-
Cinnamon-Spiced Coffee: The warm notes of cinnamon in spiced coffee elevate your dessert experience while keeping the autumn theme consistent.
-
Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vegan ice cream brings a cool and creamy element that pairs wonderfully with the spiced goodness of the cake.
-
Dark Chocolate Shavings: For an added touch of indulgence, sprinkle dark chocolate shavings on top for a rich finish that will excite chocolate lovers.
Feel free to mix and match these delightful pairings to create your perfect autumn-inspired dessert experience!
Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake Variations
Feel free to put your own twist on this Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake—the possibilities are as cozy as autumn itself!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities without losing flavor or texture.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of vanilla extract into the batter for a unique flavor boost. These subtle changes can elevate your cake to new aromatic heights!
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the cake's tenderness.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate 100g of mashed ripe bananas or applesauce for extra moisture and a hint of fruity sweetness. You'll love this playful enhancement!
- Choco-licious: Fold in vegan chocolate chips for that extra touch of decadence. Chocolate and pumpkin make a delicious pairing that will have everyone coming back for more!
- Frosting Fun: Experiment with different flavors in the frosting—try adding a splash of almond extract or even maple syrup for an autumn twist. Each flavor creates a different delightful vibe!
- Cheese Option: Swap dairy-free cream cheese with a nut-based cheese spread if you want a creamier texture, indulging in a rich frosting that still fits the vegan category.
- Layered Perfection: Use this cake as a base and create a trifle with vegan whipped cream, fruit, and more cake layers for a stunning dessert display. This is perfect for gatherings!
Explore these variations, and create an unforgettable Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake that embodies your personal tastes! Want more inspiring ideas? Check out my tips on creating a delightful fall dessert table perfect for sharing. Or, think about pairing this scrumptious cake with warm spiced chai for an unforgettable experience!
Expert Tips for the Best Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake
-
Ingredient Quality: Use fresh spices and high-quality pumpkin puree for a more flavorful cake. Subpar ingredients can lead to a bland outcome.
-
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your dairy-free milk and butter are at room temperature to help them combine smoothly into the batter, enhancing the cake's texture.
-
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake you're aiming for.
-
Cooling is Key: Always allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and sliding, ensuring a beautifully layered dessert.
-
Chill Between Coats: After applying the crumb coat, refrigerate your cake for 10-15 minutes. This helps set the frosting, giving you a cleaner finish for the final layer.
Storage Tips for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake
-
Room Temperature: Keep any uneaten Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its moist texture.
-
Fridge: If you need to store it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
-
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight.
-
Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, microwave a piece for 10-15 seconds for optimal enjoyment without losing its delightful moistness.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply bake, cool completely, and then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating to prevent drying out. The frosting can also be made ahead of time—store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to assemble, simply bring the frosting to room temperature and re-whip it for that creamy texture. When it's time to serve, layer the cake and frost as directed, and you’ll have a stunning dessert ready with minimal effort. Enjoy the sweet rewards of your preparation during those busy weeks!
Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of dairy-free milk works best for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use almond, soy, or oat milk in your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake. Each type brings a unique flavor, but make sure it's unsweetened for the best results.
How should I store leftover Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake?
Keep any uneaten cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture. If you need to store it longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze the Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place them in the fridge overnight before frosting and serving.
What should I do if my cake doesn't rise properly?
If your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake doesn't rise, check the freshness of your baking powder and bicarbonate of soda. Both should be within their expiration dates. Additionally, ensure your vegan buttermilk curdled properly—it adds essential moisture and lift.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to add a gluten-free baking powder to maintain the fluffiness of your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake. Just keep an eye on baking time, as it might vary slightly.
Is this cake safe for pets, and are there any allergens?
While the ingredients are generally safe for humans and vegan diets, it's always good to check for allergies. Avoid sharing with pets, as ingredients like dairy-free butter and sugar aren't suitable for them. Always consult your veterinarian for dietary concerns regarding pets.
Irresistible Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake for Fall Bliss
Equipment
- Oven
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- spatula
- Cake tins
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 480 ml dairy-free milk Use almond, soy, or oat milk
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar Creates vegan buttermilk
- 420 g self-raising flour For a light, fluffy cake
- 350 g caster sugar Fine sugar for smooth texture
- 1 teaspoon baking powder Adds extra lift
- 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda Works with vinegar for rise
- 1.5 tablespoons ground cinnamon Delivers warm flavor
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves Adds depth and spice
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg Use fresh for intense flavor
- 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger Adds warm complement to pumpkin
- 120 ml sunflower oil Keeps cake moist
- 100 g pumpkin puree
For the Frosting
- 400 g dairy-free block butter For creamy frosting
- 80 g dairy-free cream cheese Adds tangy flavor
- 360 g icing sugar Creates sweetness in frosting
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon For spiced frosting
- orange food gel For coloring decorations
- cocoa powder Used for coloring
- vegan caramel sauce Optional drizzle
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (fan) and line three 8-inch loose base cake tins with greaseproof paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine dairy-free milk and apple cider vinegar to create vegan buttermilk; let sit for 10 minutes.
- In a larger bowl, sift together all dry ingredients, mixing well.
- Add sunflower oil and pumpkin puree to the vegan buttermilk, whisking until smooth.
- Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients, gently folding until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly among prepared tins and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Remove cakes from oven; cool slightly for 10 minutes before transferring to racks to cool completely.
- Whip together dairy-free butter and cream cheese until creamy.
- Sift in icing sugar and ground cinnamon, whipping for about 5 minutes until fluffy.
- Layer the first cake on a plate, spreading frosting on top; optionally drizzle with vegan caramel.
- Stack remaining cakes with frosting between layers; apply crumb coat and chill for 10-15 minutes.
- After chilling, frost the entire cake with a final thick layer of frosting.
- Pipe decorative swirls on top, using colored frosting for added flair and create mini pumpkins for decoration.
- Slice and share your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake to celebrate the season!
Leave a Reply