Pumpkin Coffee Cake

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is the perfect blend of spices and pumpkin flavor, making it a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying an afternoon snack, or looking for a cozy treat with your coffee, this cake delivers on taste and texture. The crunchy topping adds an irresistible crunch that complements the moist cake beautifully. This recipe promises to satisfy your sweet cravings while celebrating the flavors of fall.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, inviting flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up this delightful cake in no time.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert at any gathering.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made without animal products, this cake is suitable for those following a vegan diet.
• Moist and Flavorful: The addition of pumpkin puree keeps the cake moist while adding depth to the flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to 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 ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk: A great tool for ensuring dry and wet ingredients are well combined without lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Important for accuracy in baking; helps achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

This Vegan Pumpkin Coffee Cake is the ultimate fall dessert! It’s perfectly spiced, full of pumpkin flavor and the crunchy sweet topping is to die for. Enjoy with a cup of hot coffee or tea.

• 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
• 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
• 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 and lightly grease a 9×13 inch cake pan.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients:
* Stir with a large spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your cake light.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared pan:
* Set aside while you make the streusel topping.

Step 6: Make Streusel Topping

In a medium bowl:
* Mix together melted vegan butter, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice using a fork or your hands until crumbly.

Step 7: Assemble Cake

Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter:
* Place in the oven and bake for about 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Optional Glaze

If desired:
* Stir all glaze ingredients together in a small bowl. Drizzle over cooled coffee cake before serving.

Step 9: Storage Tips

Store any leftovers at room temperature covered well for about two days:
* For longer storage, refrigerate up to five days or freeze if needed. Enjoy fresh for best results!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Serving Pumpkin Coffee Cake can elevate your experience, whether it’s for a cozy breakfast or a delightful dessert. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious treat.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: A classic pairing with coffee cake, the rich flavors of coffee enhance the spices in the cake.
• Tea: Choose a chai or spiced tea for a warm, comforting combination that complements pumpkin flavors.

Add Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Apples: Fresh apple slices add crunch and a slight tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake.
• Berries: Strawberries or blueberries provide a refreshing contrast and brighten your plate with color.

Drizzle with Glaze

• Powdered Sugar Glaze: A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and soy milk adds sweetness and an elegant finish.
• Maple Syrup: Drizzling pure maple syrup over the cake enhances its autumn flavors.

Serve with Dairy Alternatives

• Vegan Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping brings a creamy texture that pairs well with the dense cake.
• Coconut Yogurt: A scoop of coconut yogurt adds creaminess along with a hint of tropical flavor.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Perfecting your Pumpkin Coffee Cake is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Freshly made pumpkin puree offers better flavor compared to canned versions.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to density.
• Check for Doneness Early: Oven temperatures vary; check your cake 5 minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
• Cool Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool ensures it sets properly and makes slicing easier.
• Add More Spice if Desired: If you love warm spices, feel free to increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice in the batter or streusel topping.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Coffee Cake can make your meal more satisfying. Consider these options for a complete experience.

1. Chia Seed Pudding: A nutritious option that’s creamy and filling, perfect as a light accompaniment.
2. Granola Parfait: Layer granola with plant-based yogurt and fruits for a crunchy, fresh side dish.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the warm spices in the coffee cake.
4. Vegan Sausage Links: These savory bites offer protein and contrast nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
5. Roasted Nuts: A handful of spiced roasted nuts provides crunch and flavor balance against soft cake textures.
6. Oatmeal Bowl: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and fruits offers heartiness alongside sweet coffee cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Coffee Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect your results. Here are a few common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Ensure you measure both dry and wet ingredients precisely using the right tools for consistent results.
• Overmixing the batter – Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Skipping the streusel topping – The streusel adds great flavor and crunch; don’t skip this step for the best experience.
• Not greasing the pan properly – Make sure to grease the pan well to prevent sticking, ensuring a clean release when serving.
• Opening the oven door too early – Avoid checking on the cake during baking for at least 30 minutes. This helps maintain an even temperature for proper rising.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep at room temperature for about 2 days if covered well.

Freezing Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat with a lid for several minutes, checking occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

How can I make Pumpkin Coffee Cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Adjust liquid ingredients as needed based on the flour’s absorbency.

What is the best way to store leftover Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it for longer freshness. It can also be frozen for extended storage.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Pumpkin Coffee Cake?

Yes! Feel free to fold in nuts like walnuts or pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter before baking for added texture and flavor.

What can I use instead of pumpkin pie spice?

You can create your own spice mix using cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger if you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Coffee Cake is done baking?

Check if a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If it has wet batter on it, continue baking and check again after a few minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pumpkin Coffee Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its rich pumpkin flavor and delightful spices, it’s perfect as a breakfast treat or dessert. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Enjoy this seasonal delight with friends and family!