Pumpkin Coffee Cake

This Vegan Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack. Its rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices come together in a moist, tender cake topped with a sweet, crunchy streusel. Enjoy it with your favorite hot beverage, making it an ideal choice for breakfast, dessert, or any occasion in between.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that celebrates the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it as a breakfast delight, an afternoon snack, or a dessert that will impress your guests.
• Vegan-Friendly: This cake is completely plant-based, making it suitable for various dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 16 servings, this cake is great for gatherings and celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Vegan Pumpkin Coffee Cake, you will need a few essential tools to ensure smooth preparation and baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork or pastry cutter

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: A variety of sizes helps in organizing your dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them.
• Baking pan: The right size pan ensures even baking and proper texture for your pumpkin coffee cake.
• Whisk: A whisk is perfect for blending ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a light and fluffy batter.

Ingredients

For this delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cake

• 3 cups all purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin pureé
• 1/2 cup neutral flavored oil (e.g., avocado oil)
• 1 cup unsweetened soy milk
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping

• 1/2 cup vegan butter, melted
• 1/2 cup all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

For the Glaze (Optional)

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened soy milk
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and granulated sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the pumpkin puree, oil, soy milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Mix Batter

Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients:
1. Stir gently with a large spoon until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep your cake light.

Step 5: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a medium bowl:
1. Mix melted vegan butter, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice using a fork until crumbly. Use your hands if necessary.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan:
1. Evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Optional Glaze Preparation

If you choose to use the glaze:
1. In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with soy milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle over cooled coffee cake before serving.

Step 8: Storage Tips

Store any leftover coffee cake at room temperature covered well for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen but is best enjoyed fresh!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

This Vegan Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that pairs wonderfully with various beverages and snacks. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast or as a dessert, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Coffee

• Enjoy a slice of pumpkin coffee cake alongside your favorite brewed coffee. The rich flavors and spices complement each other perfectly.

With Tea

• A warm cup of herbal or spiced tea pairs beautifully with this cake, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall enjoyment.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of coconut whipped cream on top for a creamy and delicious contrast. This adds a luxurious touch to your slice!

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve with slices of fresh apples or pears. The crispness of the fruit provides a refreshing balance to the cake’s dense texture.

As Breakfast

• Enjoy a slice in the morning with a side of yogurt or fruit salad for a quick, nutritious breakfast option that satisfies your sweet tooth.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake

To ensure your pumpkin coffee cake turns out moist and flavorful, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Opt for fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned for enhanced flavor and moisture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid creating a dense texture; lumps are okay!
• Check Oven Temperature: Always verify your oven’s temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding glaze; this prevents it from melting away.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste; adding nutmeg or ginger can create a unique twist.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature or refrigerated to maintain freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Coffee Cake

When serving pumpkin coffee cake, consider these delightful side dishes that pair well with its flavors.

1. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy, nutritious pudding made with chia seeds and plant-based milk that complements the cake’s sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the coffee cake.
3. Vegan Yogurt Parfait: Layer vegan yogurt with granola and berries for a satisfying contrast in textures.
4. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the flavors while adding extra sweetness.
5. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft cake.
6. Herbal Tea Infusion: Serve alongside chamomile or peppermint tea for a calming beverage option that pairs well with dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake is easier than you might think, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Bold measurement errors – Incorrectly measuring ingredients can affect the texture and flavor. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Bold overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Bold skipping the streusel – The crunchy topping elevates the cake. Don’t skip this step; it adds flavor and texture!
• Bold not checking doneness – Relying solely on time can lead to undercooked or overcooked cake. Use a toothpick to check for doneness in the center of the cake.
• Bold ignoring storage guidelines – Improper storage can dry out your cake. Follow storage instructions to keep it fresh longer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure the coffee cake is completely cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking regularly.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, covering it briefly to help warm through evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

What makes Pumpkin Coffee Cake different from regular coffee cake?

Pumpkin Coffee Cake has added pumpkin puree, which gives it a moist texture and a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for fall.

Can I make Pumpkin Coffee Cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour.

How do I customize my Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits like cranberries for extra flavor and texture.

Is this Pumpkin Coffee Cake suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! Its sweet yet subtle flavors make it ideal as a breakfast treat alongside your morning coffee or tea.

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate it for up to 5 days.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pumpkin Coffee Cake is not only a delightful treat but also versatile enough to be enjoyed any time of day. You can easily customize it with various toppings or mix-ins. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the cozy flavors of fall!