Fall is here, and that means it’s time for pumpkin spice everything! This year, why not indulge in the season with a vegan twist? We’re sharing our recipe for a delicious vegan pumpkin spice latte cake that’s sure to impress your friends and family at any autumn gathering. Here’s how to make it step-by-step.

The ingredients you’ll need for this delicious cake

First, let’s gather all of the necessary ingredients. For the cake, you’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup strong coffee, cooled
• 1/2 cup plant-based milk (we love using almond milk!)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the frosting, you’ll need:

• 1 cup vegan butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tbsp strong coffee, cooled
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Make sure all of your ingredients are at room temperature before beginning!

Now, for a little tip to make your cake even more delicious, try adding a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter before baking. The nuts will add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the cake. Just be sure to evenly distribute them throughout the batter before pouring it into the cake pan!

How to make vegan pumpkin spice latte cake frosting

Let’s start with the frosting. In a large bowl, cream the softened vegan butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the cooled coffee, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice, and continue to mix until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Set aside while you make the cake.

For an extra kick of flavor, you can also add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the frosting mixture. This will give it a subtle sweetness that complements the pumpkin spice and coffee flavors perfectly.

If you want to make the frosting ahead of time, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir before using it to frost your cake.

The step-by-step process for making a vegan pumpkin spice latte cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, cooled coffee, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove the cakes from the pans and allow them to cool completely before frosting.

For the frosting, you can make a vegan cream cheese frosting by mixing vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Alternatively, you can make a vegan whipped cream frosting by whipping chilled coconut cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fluffy.

Once the cakes have cooled, place one cake layer on a cake stand or plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and spread another layer of frosting on top. Decorate the cake with additional pumpkin pie spice or chopped nuts, if desired.

Tips for baking with vegan ingredients

Baking vegan can be a bit different than traditional baking. Some ingredients, such as eggs, can be difficult to substitute. In this recipe, we used pumpkin puree as a replacement for eggs. Not only does it add rich flavor, but it’s a great binder and helps keep the cake moist.

When baking vegan, it’s important to pay attention to ingredient textures and consistency. We also recommend experimenting with different types of plant-based milks, such as soy or oat, to find the perfect balance of flavor and texture for your baked goods.

Another important aspect to consider when baking with vegan ingredients is the type of sweetener used. Traditional recipes often call for white sugar, but there are many plant-based alternatives available, such as maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar. These options not only add sweetness, but also bring unique flavors to your baked goods.

How to substitute eggs in your vegan pumpkin spice latte cake recipe

As mentioned, we used pumpkin puree in this recipe as a replacement for eggs. You can also use other egg substitutes, such as flax or chia eggs, or applesauce. For every egg called for in a recipe, substitute 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, or 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce.

It’s important to note that while these substitutes work well in many recipes, they may not work in all. For example, if a recipe calls for a large number of eggs, such as in a meringue or souffle, these substitutes may not provide the same structure and texture as eggs. It’s always a good idea to do a test run before making a large batch of a recipe with egg substitutes to ensure the desired outcome.

Why pumpkin spice is the perfect flavor for fall

What makes pumpkin spice so popular during the fall season? It’s a warm and cozy combination of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves that pairs perfectly with the chill in the air. Plus, pumpkin is a seasonal superfood packed with nutrients like vitamin A and potassium. So, baking with pumpkin spice is not only delicious but also nourishing for your body.

Another reason why pumpkin spice is the perfect flavor for fall is that it reminds us of the holidays. The aroma of pumpkin spice can evoke memories of family gatherings, cozy nights by the fire, and the excitement of the upcoming holiday season. It’s a comforting and nostalgic flavor that brings people together.

Additionally, pumpkin spice is incredibly versatile. It can be used in a variety of recipes, from sweet to savory. You can add it to your morning coffee, bake it into muffins or pies, or even sprinkle it on roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless, making pumpkin spice a fun and creative ingredient to experiment with in the kitchen.

Vegan baking hacks for beginners

If you’re new to baking vegan, here are some tips to help get you started:

• Invest in a good-quality plant-based milk. This is a great substitute for traditional dairy milk and can add delicious flavor to your baked goods.
• Use ripe bananas or applesauce as a substitute for eggs in recipes.
• Experiment with different flours, such as almond flour or coconut flour, to add extra flavor and texture to your baked goods.
• Don’t be afraid to try new recipes and techniques. Baking vegan can be challenging at first, but with practice, you’ll become a pro in no time!

Another great vegan baking hack is to use aquafaba, which is the liquid from a can of chickpeas. This can be whipped up into a foam and used as a substitute for egg whites in recipes like meringues or macarons.

It’s also important to pay attention to the leavening agents you use in your recipes. Baking powder and baking soda are often used in traditional baking, but they may contain animal-derived ingredients. Look for vegan-friendly options or make your own by combining baking soda with an acid like lemon juice or vinegar.

The health benefits of using pumpkin in your baking

Pumpkin is a nutrient-dense food that’s loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Some of the health benefits include:

• High in vitamin A, which is great for eye health
• Rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage
• Contains potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure
• Low in calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight
• Rich in fiber, which can improve digestive health and keep you feeling full

So, go ahead and indulge in this delicious pumpkin spice latte cake – your body will thank you!

Different ways to decorate your vegan pumpkin spice latte cake

Now that your cake is baked and frosted, it’s time to get creative with the decorations! You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top, pipe on extra frosting for a more decadent look, or even add some crushed pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture. For an extra festive touch, consider topping the cake with a small gourd or pumpkin.

How to make a gluten-free version of this recipe

If you’re gluten-free, don’t worry – you can still enjoy this delicious cake! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. You may also need to adjust the baking time slightly – keep an eye on the cakes and test with a toothpick for doneness.

Comparing different plant-based milk alternatives

There are so many different plant-based milk alternatives out there – which one is best for baking? Here’s a quick comparison:

• Almond milk: mild flavor, creamy texture, great for baking cakes and cookies
• Oat milk: slightly sweet flavor, unique texture, great for baked goods and coffee drinks
• Soy milk: neutral flavor, creamy texture, great for baking bread and savory dishes
• Coconut milk: rich flavor, thick texture, great for making frosting and creamy desserts

Ultimately, the best option depends on your personal taste preferences and the specific recipe you’re making.

The history behind the pumpkin spice craze

Pumpkin spice has become a staple flavor during the fall season, but where did it come from? The use of pumpkin spice dates back to ancient times, when spices were used to make food more flavorful and medicinal. In the 19th century, pumpkin pie spice began to be sold commercially in the United States. The popularity of pumpkin spice continues to grow, with everything from lattes to candles featuring the warm and cozy flavor.

Tips for serving your vegan pumpkin spice latte cake at a fall gathering

When serving your cake at a fall gathering, here are a few tips to help make it extra special:

• Display the cake on a festive cake stand or platter
• Sprinkle additional pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top for extra flavor
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea to enhance the cozy fall vibe
• Add some fall foliage, like sprigs of eucalyptus or dried leaves, to the table for a festive touch

Vegan dessert recipes to try this autumn season

If you loved this pumpkin spice latte cake, here are some other vegan dessert recipes to try this fall:

• Apple cinnamon oatmeal cookies
• Maple pecan pie
• Pumpkin chocolate chip muffins
• Cranberry orange bread
• Spiced pear crumble

Happy baking and happy autumn!