Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake

Moist, flavorful, and completely plant-based, this Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. Its unique combination of crunchy pistachios, rich dairy-free cream filling, and sweet icing makes it an ideal dessert for any occasion—from casual gatherings to special celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the nutty richness of pistachios in every bite.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Treat: Suitable for various occasions—serve it at brunch, as a snack, or at parties.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Made without any animal products, making it accessible for more diets.
• Showstopper Presentation: The beautiful layers and toppings make this cake visually stunning.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake, you’ll need some kitchen essentials. Here’s what you should have on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Springform cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Springform cake pan: Allows for easy removal of the cake without damaging its shape.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk: Helps in achieving a smooth batter by mixing dry and wet ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For this delightful Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Crumble Topping

• 30 g raw shelled pistachios
• 30 g all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegan butter (cold)

For the Cake

• 240 g all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• 160 ml soy milk
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 80 g raw shelled pistachios
• 200 g granulated sugar
• 90 g vegan butter (room temp)
• 180 g vegan Greek-style yogurt (room temp)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract

For the Cream Filling and Icing

• 150 g vegan pistachio cream spread
• 50 g vegan pistachio cream spread
• 60 g powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 tablespoon soy milk

How to Make Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to fan-forced 160°C/320°F or conventional 180°C/356°F. Line the base and sides of a 7.5 or 8-inch springform cake pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Topping

1. In a bowl, combine the raw shelled pistachios, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and cold vegan butter.
2. Use your fingers to crumble the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients for the Cake

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt.
2. Create a well in the center of this mixture.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, mix together soy milk and apple cider vinegar. Allow it to sit for about five minutes to curdle slightly.
2. Add this mixture to the well in your dry ingredients along with room-temperature vegan butter, granulated sugar, vegan Greek-style yogurt, vanilla extract, and almond extract.

Step 5: Mix and Fold

1. Stir until just combined—do not overmix!
2. Gently fold in the raw shelled pistachios.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour half of the batter into your prepared springform pan.
2. Spread half of the vegan pistachio cream on top before adding the remaining batter.
3. Top with crumble mixture evenly across.
4. Bake in preheated oven for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Icing

While cooling, mix remaining vegan pistachio cream spread with powdered sugar and soy milk until smooth.

Step 9: Ice and Serve

Once cooled completely, drizzle icing over your cake and dust with extra powdered sugar if desired. Slice and enjoy!

This Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake is not just food; it’s an experience that brings joy with every bite!

How to Serve Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake

Enjoying your Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake is all about pairing it with delightful accompaniments that enhance its unique flavor. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Cup of Tea

• Brewing a warm cup of herbal or black tea complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.

Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a burst of freshness and color.

Vegan Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of vegan whipped cream for added creaminess and richness.

Ice Cream Alternative

• Pair with dairy-free ice cream, such as coconut or almond-based varieties, for a decadent treat.

Nuts and Seeds

• A small bowl of mixed nuts or seeds adds an extra crunch and pairs well with the cake’s soft texture.

Citrus Zest

• A sprinkle of lemon or orange zest on top enhances the cake’s flavors, adding a refreshing citrus note.

How to Perfect Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake

To ensure your Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like vegan butter and yogurt mix better and create a smoother batter when they are at room temperature.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup lightly and level off with a knife to avoid dense cake.

• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to maintain the cake’s light texture; overmixing can lead to toughness.

• Cool thoroughly before icing: Let the cake cool completely before adding icing to prevent it from melting away.

• Store properly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Coconut Chia Pudding
   A creamy pudding made with coconut milk and chia seeds that provides a light contrast to the dense cake.

2. Fruit Salad
   A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.

3. Almond Biscotti
   Crunchy almond biscotti offer a delightful textural contrast and pair well with coffee or tea.

4. Vegan Cheese Platter
   A selection of plant-based cheeses served with crackers makes for an elegant appetizer before dessert.

5. Caramelized Bananas
   Sautéed bananas in maple syrup bring warmth and sweetness that complements the pistachios beautifully.

6. Vegan Chocolate Mousse
   A rich chocolate mousse provides indulgence while balancing out the nutty notes of the coffee cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly use room temperature ingredients: Forgetting to bring your vegan butter and yogurt to room temperature can result in a dense cake. Always let them sit out for at least 30 minutes before mixing.

• Boldly measure accurately: Using incorrect measurements, especially of flour and sugar, can affect the cake’s texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups carefully for precise amounts.

• Boldly preheat the oven: Skipping the preheating step can lead to uneven baking. Ensure your oven reaches the required temperature before placing the cake inside.

• Boldly follow cooling times: Cutting into the cake too soon can ruin its structure. Allow it to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

• Boldly avoid overmixing: Overmixing the batter can make your cake tough. Mix just until combined for a light and airy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake.

Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes, you can easily substitute other nuts like almonds or walnuts if preferred. Just adjust the amount accordingly.

How do I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the batter for an extra treat without overpowering the pistachio flavor.

What can I serve with Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even plant-based milk alternatives. You could also serve it with fresh fruit on the side.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its moist texture and rich flavor make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different nuts or spices to suit your taste!