Easy Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake You Have to Try This Fall
If you love pumpkin spice lattes, why not enjoy that cozy flavor in a delightful cake? This vegan pumpkin spice latte cake captures everything you adore about fall – from cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice to that subtle coffee kick in a moist, fluffy cake.
Made dairy-free and eggless, it’s approachable for home bakers and perfect for seasonal celebrations. It’s a perfect fall companion to other baked treats like our easy baked vegan cinnamon sugar donuts. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting dessert that feels like your favorite fall drink, but in cake form!
Why This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Works and What You’ll Love
This cake is the ultimate fall treat because it combines rich pumpkin flavor, comforting warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and just the right touch of espresso to mimic that beloved latte experience. It’s moist and fluffy thanks to pumpkin puree and oil, but stays light without eggs or dairy, a technique supported by vegan baking tips from Bon Appétit.
The espresso buttercream frosting adds a creamy finish with a gentle caffeine kick. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that can be made gluten-free, vegan, and refined sugar-friendly with simple swaps.
Whether you’re baking for a crowd or a cozy night in, this cake hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Vegan Cake
To bake this cake, you’ll need pumpkin puree, neutral oil (like canola or avocado), plant-based milk (soy, oat, almond), and a mix of brown and granulated sugar for sweetness. For the dry ingredients, all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend), baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice give the authentic fall flavor.
The espresso buttercream calls for vegan butter, powdered sugar, espresso or espresso powder, vanilla extract, and plant milk to achieve perfect frosting texture and flavour.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Bake Your Frosted Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare two 8-inch round pans by greasing and lining with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, oil, plant milk, brown and granulated sugars, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice to the bowl. Stir gently until just combined — overmixing can toughen vegan cakes.
- Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 35-45 minutes. Use a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Meanwhile, prepare the espresso buttercream by beating vegan butter until smooth, gradually adding powdered sugar, espresso or espresso powder, vanilla, and plant milk. Blend on medium-high until fluffy and spreadable.
- Once cool, frost the cake layers generously and assemble. Slice and enjoy your vegan pumpkin spice latte cake!
Expert Tips to Make the Best Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
- Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sugar and spices.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
- If you want a stronger espresso flavor, use freshly brewed espresso instead of powder.
- For gluten-free, use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Chill your vegan butter beforehand to ensure thick, creamy frosting and avoid runny texture.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference, especially if using sweetened plant milks.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Don’t have canola oil? Avocado or light olive oil are great swaps for moisture with subtle flavor.
Prefer another plant milk? Oat or almond milk works beautifully.
To reduce sugar, try coconut sugar or maple syrup (reduce other liquids accordingly). For a healthier twist, add chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for crunch.
If you want to skip espresso, substitute strong brewed decaf coffee for a milder taste. You can also bake this recipe as cupcakes by dividing batter into a muffin tin and baking 18-20 minutes.
Common Questions Answered About This Cake
Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake?
Yes! Simply pour the batter into lined muffin tins and bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Use a quality gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
Do I have to use espresso in the frosting?
No. You can omit espresso powder or use decaf coffee to reduce caffeine, or replace it with strong brewed instant coffee.
How do I store and freeze the cake?
Keep the frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer. You can freeze unfrosted baked layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months—thaw before frosting.
Can I make frosting ahead?
Yes, refrigerate the frosting in an airtight container for up to 2 days and bring to room temperature before using.
Recipe Card and Notes for Your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Ingredients: Pumpkin puree, canola oil, plant milk, brown and granulated sugar, vanilla, all-purpose or gluten-free flour, baking powder and soda, salt, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, vegan butter, powdered sugar, espresso powder, vanilla extract. Instructions: Follow the seven easy steps to mix, bake, cool, and frost.
Notes: Use pure pumpkin puree, chill butter for frosting, avoid overmixing, and try substitutions for sensitivity or preference. The cake keeps well several days, and freezing prebaked layers is ideal for same-day enjoyment later.
Nutrition per serving: Approximately 57g carbs, 24g fat, 2g protein, plus vitamin A from pumpkin. Try this cake for your next fall party or cozy night in — it’s a hit for all ages and diets!
Conclusion
This vegan pumpkin spice latte cake brings the comfort and flavors of fall right to your table in dessert form. If you’re looking for more comforting vegan recipes, don’t miss our fan-favorite vegan sour cream enchiladas. Whether for a holiday treat or an everyday indulgence, its moist texture, warm spices, and espresso-enhanced frosting will delight all pumpkin spice lovers.
With easy-to-follow steps, adaptable ingredients, and expert tips, you have everything you need to bake a cake that’s as cozy and satisfying as your favorite PSL. Give it a try, and enjoy the flavors of the season!