Name: Deliciously Moist Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake You’ll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Dairy-free milk (Use your favorite plant-based milk for a creamy texture.); 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar (This helps curdle the milk, creating a buttermilk-like effect.); 2 cups Self-raising flour (Perfectly light and airy, this flour eliminates the need for additional leavening agents.); 1 cup Caster sugar (This finely granulated sugar dissolves easily, lending sweetness without grit.); 1 tbsp Baking powder (Ensures a fluffy rise in your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake.); 1 tsp Bicarbonate of soda (Works with the vinegar to boost leavening for a tender crumb.); 2 tsp Ground cinnamon (A warm spice that brings the essence of fall into each bite.); 1 tsp Ground cloves (Adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the pumpkin.); 0.5 tsp Ground nutmeg (This nutty spice heightens the seasonal taste profile.); 1 tsp Ground ginger (A hint of spice that adds warmth and zest to the cake.); 0.5 cup Sunflower oil (Keeps the cake moist and rich, making it deliciously tender.); 1 cup Pumpkin puree (The star ingredient that offers natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.); 0.5 cup Dairy-free block butter (Gives a creamy base for frosting while keeping it plant-based.); 0.5 cup Dairy-free cream cheese (Elevates the frosting with a delightful tanginess.); 2 cups Icing sugar (Provides the sweetness needed to balance the tangy cream cheese.); 1 tsp Ground cinnamon (Enhances the spiced flavors of the frosting and ties it back to the cake.); 1 tbsp Orange food gel (Perfect for adding vibrant autumn colors when decorating.); 2 tbsp Cocoa powder (A fun finishing touch for a beautiful contrast to the orange frosting.); 2 tbsp Vegan caramel sauce (An optional indulgence that takes your cake to the next level if desired.)

The fragrance of autumn wafts through my kitchen as I prepare to bake a Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, a delightful nod to the season that inspires cozy gatherings and warm memories. Perfectly spiced and utterly heartwarming, this cake offers a simple escape from the rush of everyday life without sacrificing flavor. Packed with wholesome ingredients and a luscious dairy-free frosting, it transforms ordinary moments into celebrations, making it a fantastic choice for both weeknight treats and festive occasions. With just a quick prep time of 10 minutes, you'll have a scrumptious dessert that caters to everyone—vegan or not! So, are you ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of spiced pumpkin goodness? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why Is This Cake So Irresistible?

Moist and Flavorful: This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is packed with warm spices, creating a delightful harmony of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger that will have your taste buds dancing.

Easy to Make: With a simple prep time of just 10 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days when you crave something sweet without the fuss.

Versatile Delight: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this cake impresses everyone. Pair it with a scoop of vegan ice cream for an indulgent treat!

Ultimate Comfort: The combination of rich pumpkin puree and creamy dairy-free frosting makes it feel like a cozy hug in cake form, perfect for autumn celebrations.

For more fabulous fall recipes, check out this Zucchini Bundt Cake or whip up some Pumpkin Pie Savory for a complete autumn feast!

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake Ingredients

• For the Batter

Dairy-free milk – Use your favorite plant-based milk for a creamy texture.
Apple cider vinegar – This helps curdle the milk, creating a buttermilk-like effect.
Self-raising flour – Perfectly light and airy, this flour eliminates the need for additional leavening agents.
Caster sugar – This finely granulated sugar dissolves easily, lending sweetness without grit.
Baking powder – Ensures a fluffy rise in your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake.
Bicarbonate of soda – Works with the vinegar to boost leavening for a tender crumb.
Ground cinnamon – A warm spice that brings the essence of fall into each bite.
Ground cloves – Adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the pumpkin.
Ground nutmeg – This nutty spice heightens the seasonal taste profile.
Ground ginger – A hint of spice that adds warmth and zest to the cake.
Sunflower oil – Keeps the cake moist and rich, making it deliciously tender.
Pumpkin puree – The star ingredient that offers natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.

• For the Frosting

Dairy-free block butter – Gives a creamy base for frosting while keeping it plant-based.
Dairy-free cream cheese – Elevates the frosting with a delightful tanginess.
Icing sugar – Provides the sweetness needed to balance the tangy cream cheese.
Ground cinnamon – Enhances the spiced flavors of the frosting and ties it back to the cake.
Orange food gel – Perfect for adding vibrant autumn colors when decorating.
Cocoa powder – A fun finishing touch for a beautiful contrast to the orange frosting.
Vegan caramel sauce – An optional indulgence that takes your cake to the next level if desired.

With these ingredients, you are well on your way to making a Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake that is not only scrumptious but also perfect for anyone seeking a sweet escape from the fast-food routine!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (fan). This ensures that your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake will bake evenly, achieving that perfect fluffy texture. While the oven warms up, take a moment to gather all your ingredients for a smooth baking experience.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Tins
Line three 8-inch loose-base cake tins with greaseproof paper. This will help prevent your cake layers from sticking, making it easier to transfer them later. Make sure the greaseproof paper fits snugly in each tin, allowing for a clean release after baking.

Step 3: Create the Buttermilk
In a bowl, combine the dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar and whisk until fully blended. Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes, allowing it to curdle. This step mimics buttermilk and will lend moisture and richness to your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, caster sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, ground cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the spices and leavening agents, creating a flavorful base for your cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the sunflower oil and pumpkin puree to the curdled milk mixture, whisking until smooth and creamy. This combination will infuse your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake with moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor. Take your time to mix until there are no lumps.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This step is key to keeping your cake light and fluffy, ensuring the spices truly shine through.

Step 7: Distribute the Batter
Evenly pour the cake batter into the prepared tins, tapping them gently on the worktop to release any trapped air bubbles. This ensures your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake layers will bake uniformly and rise beautifully, creating a lovely texture.

Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the tins in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Your cakes are ready when they spring back lightly to the touch and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them to avoid any overbaking.

Step 9: Cool Down the Cakes
Once baked, allow the cakes to cool slightly in the tins for about 10 minutes before carefully removing them. Transfer the layers to a wire rack to cool completely. Proper cooling time is essential to prevent the frosting from melting when applied.

Step 10: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, whip the dairy-free block butter and cream cheese together until creamy and smooth. This forms a luscious base for your frosting. Take your time to blend these ingredients thoroughly for an even texture that will complement your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake perfectly.

Step 11: Add Sweetness to the Frosting
Sift the icing sugar and ground cinnamon into the mixer, then whip on high speed for approximately 5 minutes. This will create a light, fluffy frosting that’s both sweet and slightly spiced, enhancing the flavors of your cake layers.

Step 12: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of the frosting evenly on top. If desired, you can fill the center with a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce for added indulgence. Repeat this step with the second layer, followed by adding the third layer on top.

Step 13: Crumb Coat the Cake
Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting around the entire cake to seal in any loose crumbs. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to set the crumb coat, which helps create a smooth finish for the final layer of frosting.

Step 14: Final Frosting Layer
Remove the cake from the fridge and apply a final coat of frosting. Use a cake scraper or a spatula to smooth the edges, giving your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake a polished and professional look that’s sure to impress.

Step 15: Decorate the Cake
Color portions of any leftover frosting with orange food gel and cocoa powder for decorating. Pipe adorable pumpkins onto the cake to add a festive touch, showcasing the spirit of autumn in your delightful dessert.

Step 16: Slice and Serve
Once decorated, slice into your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake and serve at your next gathering or enjoy it during a cozy night in. With its moist layers and spiced frosting, this cake is a wonderful treat for everyone!

Variations & Substitutions for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! There are plenty of ways to enhance and customize your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake to suit your taste buds.

Gluten-Free: Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or almond flour to keep it gluten-free delightfully.
Sweetener Swap: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup in place of caster sugar for a more natural sweetness that’s just as satisfying.
Pumpkin Alternative: Try using applesauce or mashed bananas if you want a fruity twist. They add moisture while infusing a unique flavor into your cake.
Nutty Flavor: Add toasted walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy texture that perfectly complements the soft cake.
Salted Caramel: Elevate the sweetness with a drizzle of homemade vegan salted caramel sauce between the layers—it’s a dream come true!
Spice It Up: Boost the warmth by adding a pinch of ground cardamom or allspice for an exotic twist that harmonizes beautifully with pumpkin spices.
Frosting Variation: For a change, try chocolate frosting by adding cocoa powder to your dairy-free frosting mixture for a rich chocolatey delight.
Zesty Citrus: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the batter for a bright, citrusy contrast that dances on your palate.

With these variations, you can transform your vegan cake into a personalized masterpiece! If you're in the mood for more delicious alternatives, don’t forget to check out my Bake Strawberry Cheesecake or perhaps experiment with some exciting flavors in Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake Tacos. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake layers up to 2 days in advance by baking them and allowing them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. This helps preserve their moisture and flavor. Additionally, the frosting can be made up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the cake's quality, avoid frosting it until just before serving—this ensures that the cake remains fresh and delicious. When you're ready to enjoy this delightful dessert, simply frost the layers, decorate, and serve for a warm, cozy treat that’s just as good as fresh-baked!

What to Serve with Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake?

Indulging in a slice of this heavenly cake is a treat in itself, but why not elevate the experience with delightful pairings?

Creamy Coconut Whipped Topping: The light, airy coconut cream adds a tropical twist that complements the warm spices beautifully.
Spiced Apple Compote: A warm, chunky apple compote brings a delightful contrast with its sweet and tangy notes, creating a perfectly cozy match.
Golden Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of maple syrup enhances the sweetness of the cake, adding a touch of richness and an autumnal flair.
Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan vanilla ice cream creates a luxurious pairing, perfect for contrasting the cake's warm spices.
Nutty Granola Crunch: Sprinkling some crunchy granola on top adds a delightful texture and nutty flavor, balancing the softness of the cake.
Brewed Chai Latte: This warm, spiced drink mirrors the flavors of the cake, making it a delightful companion for your afternoon treat.

These thoughtful additions will enhance every bite of the Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, transforming a simple dessert into a full sensory experience that celebrates the flavors of the season!

Expert Tips for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cake while baking. Start checking at 25 minutes, as ovens can vary, and you want that perfect springy texture without overbaking.

Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake.

Chill Your Frosting: Ensure your frosting ingredients are cold before whipping; this helps create a fluffier texture. If the frosting is too soft, refrigerate for a bit before decorating.

Layer Evenly: For a professional-looking finish, ensure even distribution of batter in your cake tins. Tapping the tins on the worktop will help settle the batter and eliminate air bubbles.

Final Coat Tips: After your crumb coat, refrigerate the cake to set it before applying the final layer of frosting. This will help achieve those beautifully smooth edges!

Decorating Fun: Get creative with your frosting decorations! Use cookie cutters or piping bags to create whimsical pumpkin shapes, turning your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake into a festive centerpiece.

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake

Fridge: Store your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and ensures the frosting remains fresh.

Freezer: If you want to save some for later, wrap each layer of cake in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen cake, thaw it overnight in the fridge. You can warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a comforting treat!

Frosting Storage: Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; just thaw and re-whip before using.

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pumpkin for this cake?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree for your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, opt for 100% pure pumpkin that’s thick and smooth, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Look for a can labeled “pure pumpkin” in the supermarket. If you prefer fresh pumpkin, pick one with a hard rind free of blemishes; small sugar pumpkins are great for roasting and pureeing at home!

How should I store my leftover cake?
Very easily! Store your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep the cake moist and allow the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’d like to keep it for longer, consider freezing it, which is a fantastic way to preserve its deliciousness.

Can I freeze the cake layers?
Of course! To freeze your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake layers, allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge. You can even warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a cozy treat!

What if my cake turns out dry?
No worries! If your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is dry, it could be due to overmixing or overbaking. To avoid this, always mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. For future bakes, check your cake around 25 minutes in the oven, as each oven varies. If you already have a dry cake, you can brush it with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water to add moisture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is free from dairy and eggs, making it suitable for most plant-based diets. However, if you have nut allergies, ensure your dairy-free milk is nut-free, such as oat or soy milk. Enjoy every moment of this delicious creation without compromise!