Pumpkin Coffee Cake

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is the perfect dessert to celebrate the flavors of fall! Moist, spiced with warm pumpkin pie spice, and topped with a crunchy streusel, it’s a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you serve it at brunch, as a cozy afternoon snack, or at a festive gathering, this cake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking this cake is a breeze even for beginners.
• Deliciously Spiced – The combination of pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice creates a warm and inviting flavor that’s ideal for fall.
• Versatile Serving Options – Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon pick-me-up; this cake fits any occasion.
• Vegan Delight – Made without animal products, it’s suitable for various dietary preferences while still being incredibly tasty.
• Customizable Toppings – Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits to the streusel for extra texture and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your Pumpkin Coffee Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients effectively.
• Whisk – Helps in achieving a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake, you’ll need 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 (I used 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 your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch cake pan.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture:
– Stir gently with a large spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will ensure your cake remains light and fluffy.

Step 5: Prepare the Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan:
– Spread it evenly using a spatula. Set aside while you prepare the streusel topping.

Step 6: Make the Streusel

In another medium bowl:
– Mix together melted vegan butter, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice using a fork until crumbly. Use hands if needed for better consistency.

Step 7: Add Topping & Bake

Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the batter:
– Place in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Step 8: Optional Glaze

If desired:
– In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, soy milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle over cooled coffee cake before serving.

Step 9: Enjoy & Store

Allow your Pumpkin Coffee Cake to cool before slicing:
– Serve with coffee or tea! It can be stored at room temperature for about two days or refrigerated for up to five days. It also freezes well if needed but is best enjoyed fresh!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a delightful treat for any occasion. Its moist texture and rich flavor pair wonderfully with various beverages and accompaniments.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Enjoying your pumpkin coffee cake with a hot cup of coffee enhances the flavors. The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

Pair with Tea

• A warm cup of herbal or chai tea complements the spices in the cake, creating a cozy blend ideal for autumn afternoons.

Ice Cream Scoop

• Add a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert. The creaminess contrasts nicely with the cake’s texture.

Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of fresh apples or pears. The crispness adds freshness that pairs well with the rich, spiced cake.

Drizzle with Glaze

• For extra sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and soy milk over each slice before serving. This adds a lovely finishing touch.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients to ensure consistency in texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Stir until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense result.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor profile significantly, making your cake more aromatic and flavorful.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is correctly calibrated; an oven thermometer can help maintain accurate baking temperatures.
• Cool Before Serving: Allow your cake to cool completely before adding glaze or cutting into it. This helps set the flavors and makes it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Pairing side dishes with Pumpkin Coffee Cake can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like apples, oranges, and grapes adds brightness to your dessert table.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries creates a delightful contrast in textures.
3. Spiced Nuts: Roasted almonds or walnuts seasoned with cinnamon provide a crunchy element that complements the softness of the cake.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia pudding flavored with vanilla or maple syrup offers a nutritious balance to your sweet coffee cake.
5. Savory Scones: Pairing pumpkin coffee cake with savory scones made from herbs or cheese provides a delightful contrast in flavors.
6. Caramelized Apples: Sweetened caramelized apples served warm can enhance the pumpkin flavor while adding warmth to your dish.
7. Coconut Whipped Cream: This light topping adds creaminess without dairy, making it an excellent accompaniment for those who prefer it vegan-friendly.
8. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup over each slice intensifies the sweetness while giving an autumnal touch to every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Coffee Cake, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your baking experience and ensure a delicious result.

• Boldly measuring flour – Always spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off. Scooping directly can lead to too much flour, making the cake dense.
• Ignoring mixing methods – Overmixing can cause tough cake. Mix until just combined for a light texture.
• Neglecting oven temperature – Ensure your oven is preheated. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking.
• Skipping the streusel topping – The crunchy topping adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip it; it’s essential for that perfect finish!
• Using expired ingredients – Check your baking powder and spices for freshness. Old ingredients can affect the rise and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Make sure the cake is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date so you know when it was frozen.

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 or until warm.
• Stovetop – Place in a non-stick pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

What makes this Pumpkin Coffee Cake vegan?

This recipe uses plant-based ingredients like soy milk and vegan butter instead of dairy, making it suitable for a vegan diet.

Can I substitute pumpkin puree?

Yes! You can use applesauce or mashed bananas in place of pumpkin puree, although this will alter the flavor slightly.

How do I make a gluten-free version of Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure it’s a blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

What toppings pair well with Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Creamy frosting, nuts, or even fresh fruits like cranberries complement the flavors beautifully. Feel free to experiment!

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pumpkin Coffee Cake is not only delightful but also versatile. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, you can add nuts or change spices to suit your taste. Give this easy recipe a try; it’s bound to become a favorite!