Pumpkin Marble Cake (vegan)

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that will warm your heart and home, this Pumpkin Marble Cake (vegan) is just the thing! It’s a delightful blend of pumpkin goodness swirled with rich chocolate, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply treating yourself on a busy weeknight, this cake is the answer. With its fudgy texture and hint of pumpkin spice, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. You only need one batter to create both the pumpkin and chocolate layers, so there’s no fussing over multiple recipes. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, making it suitable for everyone at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this cake in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the unique combination of flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This cake keeps well, so you can bake it in advance and enjoy it later.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and chocolate creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to find that this Pumpkin Marble Cake (vegan) uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Each element comes together to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 15 ounces (425g) pumpkin puree (canned or homemade (not pumpkin pie filling))
• 1 1/4 cup (240g) packed light brown sugar (or granulated cane sugar)
• 1/2 cup (125g) neutral flavored oil
• 1/3 cup (85g) dairy-free milk (room temperature)
• 1/3 cup (60g) dairy-free yogurt (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose plain flour (spooned and leveled, sifted if needed)
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (25g) dutch-process cocoa powder (sifted if needed)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) dairy-free milk
• 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional for a deeper chocolate flavor)
• 1/2 cup (85g or 3 oz) dairy-free chocolate (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup (120g) thick scoopable canned coconut cream

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
• Change the Chocolate: Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor or try white chocolate for something sweet and creamy.
• Fruit Swirls: Add in some pureed fruit like banana or applesauce for added moisture and flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Marble Cake (vegan)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is crucial because a properly heated oven ensures even baking throughout your cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Line an 8-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. This makes removing the cake easy once it’s baked! Plus, it helps prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, light brown sugar, neutral oil, dairy-free milk, dairy-free yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract if you’re using it. Mix these well until smooth. This mixture brings moisture and sweetness to your cake.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting the flour can help avoid lumps and create a lighter texture.

Step 5: Bring It Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; being careful not to overmix will keep your cake tender!

Step 6: Create the Chocolate Mixture

In a separate small bowl, combine cocoa powder with dairy-free milk and espresso powder if using. Stir until smooth. This rich chocolate mix will swirl beautifully into your batter.

Step 7: Swirl It All Together

Scoop half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan. Next, drizzle half of the chocolate mixture over it. Repeat with remaining batters until all are used up. Use a knife or skewer to create beautiful swirls but don’t overdo it—just enough for that marbled effect!

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy every bite of this delicious Pumpkin Marble Cake!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Marble Cake (vegan)

Baking can be a true delight, and with these pro tips, you’ll make the most of your pumpkin marble cake experience!

• Measure ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precise measurements. This helps to achieve the perfect texture and flavor balance in your cake.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your dairy-free milk and yogurt are at room temperature before mixing. This promotes better incorporation into the batter, leading to a lighter cake.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the fluffy texture we desire.

• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake to check if it’s done. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready! This prevents overbaking, which can dry out your cake.

• Let it cool completely: Allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling fully helps set the texture and makes slicing easier later on!

How to Serve Pumpkin Marble Cake (vegan)

Serving your pumpkin marble cake is just as delightful as baking it! Here are some creative ideas to present this beautiful dessert.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Coconut cream dollops: Add dollops of thick coconut cream on each slice for a creamy touch that complements the spices.
• Pumpkin spice sprinkle: A light dusting of pumpkin pie spice adds an aromatic finish and enhances visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Coconut yogurt: A scoop of dairy-free coconut yogurt on the side provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced cake.
• Fresh fruit salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
• Vegan whipped cream: Serve with a dollop of homemade or store-bought vegan whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• Herbal tea: Pair your slice with a cup of soothing herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint for a cozy afternoon snack.

Enjoy every bite of this delicious pumpkin marble cake – it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Marble Cake (vegan) is perfect for meal prep! It stays fresh for days and can be easily stored or frozen, making it a great option for busy weeks or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious vegan Pumpkin Marble Cake!

Can I use different types of flour for Pumpkin Marble Cake (vegan)?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed. Just ensure your blend has a binding agent like xanthan gum to maintain texture.

How do I achieve the best swirls in my Pumpkin Marble Cake (vegan)?

To create beautiful marbling, pour half of the plain batter into the pan, followed by half of the chocolate batter. Use a knife to gently swirl them together without overmixing!

Can I make this Pumpkin Marble Cake (vegan) without cocoa powder?

Absolutely! Simply omit the cocoa powder and add more flour instead. The result will be a lovely pumpkin spice cake that is equally delightful.

What other toppings can I use for my Pumpkin Marble Cake (vegan)?

Feel free to top your cake with a drizzle of vegan chocolate ganache, or sprinkle with nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Pumpkin Marble Cake (vegan) as much as I do! The combination of pumpkin and chocolate creates such a cozy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a little treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends!