Pumpkin Coffee Cake

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is the perfect treat for cozy fall days! With its aromatic spices and rich pumpkin flavor, it’s an ideal dessert or breakfast option for any gathering. The crunchy sweet topping adds a delightful texture that pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, this cake will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin, spices, and sweetness creates a comforting flavor profile that embodies fall.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making this cake is hassle-free.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, dessert, or snack throughout the day.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Perfect for Sharing: Makes 16 servings, so it’s great for gatherings and potlucks!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start 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
• Fork
• 9×13 inch cake pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk: Helps to blend ingredients smoothly without lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise ingredient amounts for consistent results.

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.

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 puree
• 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. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch cake pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the wet mixture into the dry mixture:
– Stir gently with a large spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Set it aside while you make the streusel topping.

Step 6: Make Streusel Topping

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

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the cake batter:
– Place in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.

Step 8: Optional Glaze Preparation

If desired:
1. In a small bowl, stir together all glaze ingredients until smooth.
2. Drizzle over cooled coffee cake before serving.

Step 9: Storage Tips

Store any leftover coffee cake at room temperature covered for about 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen but tastes best fresh!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that pairs well with various beverages and sides. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast item or a dessert, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

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

Accompanied by Tea

• A warm cup of herbal or chai tea can provide a soothing balance to the spiced notes in the cake, making for a cozy afternoon treat.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• For an extra indulgent experience, add a dollop of coconut whipped cream on top. This adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness.

Served Warm

• Serving your pumpkin coffee cake warm allows the flavors to shine through. It can be gently reheated before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top offers crunch and additional flavor. This enhances the texture and makes for a more satisfying bite.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake

To achieve the best results with your pumpkin coffee cake, consider these tips for perfecting your baking technique.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise. Old ingredients can lead to dense cakes.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into measuring cups without packing it down. This prevents using too much flour, which can make the cake heavy.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture instead of a light, fluffy cake.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the center comes out clean. This will help you avoid under or overbaking.

• Cool Before Slicing: Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting. This helps maintain its shape and prevents crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Coffee Cake

While Pumpkin Coffee Cake stands well on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside the rich flavors of the coffee cake.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries provides creaminess and crunch, making for a balanced breakfast option.

3. Roasted Chai Spiced Nuts: Nutty goodness seasoned with chai spices creates an excellent crunchy contrast to the soft cake.

4. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup can enhance sweetness without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.

5. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia pudding topped with nuts or fruits makes for an interesting texture contrast.

6. Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free ice cream adds chill and sweetness, creating a delightful dessert combination when served together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Pumpkin Coffee Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here’s how to steer clear of them:

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for a light texture.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for consistency.
• Skipping the streusel topping: This adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip it; follow the recipe for the perfect crunch!
• Using cold ingredients: Cold oil or milk can affect the batter’s consistency. Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on baking time can lead to underbaking. Use a toothpick to check if it’s done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Coffee Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

Can I make this Pumpkin Coffee Cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How do I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Simply fold in 1 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before pouring it into the pan.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin purée! Just roast and blend it until smooth before adding it to your batter.

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

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it for extended freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pumpkin Coffee Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this delightful recipe and enjoy its warm spices and rich flavor!