Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake
This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is a delightful treat that brings the flavors of fall into your kitchen all year round. It’s moist, perfectly spiced, and can be enjoyed on various occasions, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. With its rich taste and creamy frosting, this cake is bound to impress everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Moist: The combination of dairy-free milk and pumpkin puree keeps the cake moist and tender.
- Perfectly Spiced: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger gives this cake its warm and inviting flavor.
- Versatile Frosting Options: Top it with creamy dairy-free cream cheese frosting or drizzle with vegan caramel sauce for a decadent touch.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal equipment, this recipe is perfect for bakers of any skill level.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a casual get-together, this cake fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, gather your tools and set up your space. This will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking pan
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without splatters or mess.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing the batter to a light and fluffy consistency.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measuring ensures the best results in baking.

Ingredients
To create this delicious Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
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
- Vegan caramel sauce – optional
How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Greasing your baking pan at this stage helps the cake come out easily after baking.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Dairy-free milk
2. Apple cider vinegar
3. Sunflower oil
4. Pumpkin puree
Mix well until smooth.
Step 3: 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 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture while mixing continuously until fully combined.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Frost
Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before spreading on your vegan cream cheese frosting or drizzling with vegan caramel sauce.
This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is sure to become a favorite among family and friends! Enjoy every slice!
How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake
Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
Individual Slices
- Enjoy slices of the cake on their own for a simple yet delicious dessert.
With Vegan Whipped Cream
- Top your cake with a dollop of vegan whipped cream for added creaminess and flavor.
Accompanied by Fresh Fruit
- Serve slices alongside fresh fruit like apples or pears to complement the cake’s spiced flavors.
Drizzled with Vegan Caramel Sauce
- For an indulgent touch, drizzle vegan caramel sauce over each slice before serving.
Warmed Up
- Heat individual slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds to enhance the flavors and make it cozy.
Festive Platter
- Create a beautiful dessert platter by arranging small pieces of cake with assorted toppings and garnishes for gatherings.
How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake
To achieve the best results with your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, consider these essential tips. They will help you create a moist and flavorful cake every time.
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Use fresh spices: Ensure your ground spices are fresh for the best flavor; stale spices can dull the taste.
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Measure accurately: Use precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar, to maintain the right texture.
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Don’t skip the vinegar: The apple cider vinegar reacts with baking soda, helping your cake rise beautifully while enhancing flavor.
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Mix gently: Combine wet and dry ingredients carefully to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.
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Test doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done. If it has batter on it, bake a few more minutes.
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Cool completely: Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and helps keep frosting intact.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:
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Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut treats that pair well with spiced flavors.
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Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai tea complements the pumpkin spice notes perfectly.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the cake.
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Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti adds texture and pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
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Vegan Ice Cream: Scoop some dairy-free ice cream on the side for a delightful creamy contrast.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Sweet strawberries dipped in chocolate provide a fruity touch that contrasts nicely with pumpkin spice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake can be easy, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
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Boldly skip measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision.
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Boldly ignore room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like dairy-free butter and milk should be at room temperature for better mixing and texture. Take them out of the fridge ahead of time.
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Boldly rush the mixing process: Overmixing or undermixing can affect the cake’s texture. Mix just until combined for a fluffy result.
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Boldly forget to test for doneness: Baking times can vary, so always check your cake with a toothpick. It should come out clean when your cake is done.
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Boldly skip cooling time: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and helps the frosting stick better.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake
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Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
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Microwave: Warm individual slices in the microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
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Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake:
Can I make this Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that any other ingredients used are also gluten-free.
How do I make my Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake more moist?
Adding an extra tablespoon of dairy-free milk or using homemade pumpkin puree can help enhance moisture.
What can I use instead of dairy-free cream cheese?
You can substitute it with coconut whipped cream or another dairy-free frosting of your choice if you prefer.
How long does it take to bake the Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake?
Typically, this cake bakes for about 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but always check for doneness with a toothpick.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or swapping spices according to your taste. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home, making it a must-try recipe!
Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of our Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake, a delightful dessert that brings the essence of autumn to your table any time of year. This moist cake is infused with a blend of aromatic spices, making it an irresistible treat for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Topped with creamy dairy-free frosting or drizzled with vegan caramel sauce, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike. With its simple preparation steps, even novice bakers will find success in creating this delectable dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Plant-based
Ingredients
- 480ml dairy-free milk
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 420g self-raising flour
- 350g caster sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
- 1 & 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 120ml sunflower oil
- 100g pumpkin puree
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease your baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine dairy-free milk, apple cider vinegar, sunflower oil, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together self-raising flour, caster sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and spices until lump-free.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture while stirring continuously until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting with vegan cream cheese frosting or drizzling with vegan caramel sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
