Name: Moist Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake for Your Sweet Cravings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Raw Shelled Pistachios (Can substitute with other nuts if needed.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Avoid brown sugar.); 1/2 cup Vegan Butter (Use block-type butter.); 1 cup Soy Milk (Almond or oat milk can be used.); 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (Lemon juice is a good substitute.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt; 1/2 cup Vegan Greek-Style Yogurt (Substitute with thick coconut yogurt if necessary.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 teaspoon Almond Extract; 1/2 cup Vegan Pistachio Cream Spread (Homemade version can be used.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For icing and dusting.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of toasted pistachios filled the air, taking me back to a café in quaint little town, where I first enjoyed the perfect slice of cake paired with coffee. Today, I am thrilled to share my recipe for Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake, a delightful treat that elevates your coffee break without a hint of dairy or eggs. This cake is not only a showstopper with its vibrant green hue and crispy topping, but it’s also nutrient-rich and easy to whip up on a busy afternoon. The combination of nutty flavors and moist texture makes it a sweet comfort you’ll want to savor. Ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible creation? Let’s dive in!

Why is this cake a must-try?

Deliciously unique: This Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake transforms the humble cake into a gourmet experience with its nutty flavor and vibrant hue that delights both the eyes and palate.

Nutrient-rich goodness: Packed with the nutritious benefits of pistachios, this dessert not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also offers heart-healthy fats.

Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create a stunning cake that brings joy and comfort to any occasion.

Ideal for sharing: Perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or dessert, this cake will surely impress guests and become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Versatile options: Feeling creative? Try swapping the pistachios for walnuts or pecans, or add vegan chocolate chips for a delightful twist!

For a sweeter indulgence, check out my recipe for Moist Strawberry Shortcake to keep the flavors fresh and exciting!

Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake Ingredients

• Ready to bake a delightful Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake?

For the Cake

Raw Shelled Pistachios – The star ingredient that provides a rich pistachio flavor; if needed, you can substitute them with your choice of nuts.
All-Purpose Flour – This gives structure and serves as the cake’s base; for a gluten-free option, swap it with your favorite gluten-free flour.
Granulated Sugar – Its sweetness is essential; avoid brown sugar as it may change the cake’s moisture and flavor.
Vegan Butter – Adding much-needed moisture and richness; use block-type butter for best results, steering clear of the spreadable varieties.
Soy Milk – Acts as the fluid base for the batter; feel free to use almond or oat milk if you prefer.
Apple Cider Vinegar – A crucial ingredient to create a vegan buttermilk that boosts moisture; lemon juice works as a great substitute.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Key leavening agents that help the cake rise beautifully, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
Sea Salt – A pinch enhances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
Vegan Greek-Style Yogurt – Adds moisture and density; swap it with thick coconut yogurt or vegan sour cream if necessary.
Vanilla & Almond Extracts – Elevate the cake’s flavor with aromatic notes that blend perfectly.
Vegan Pistachio Cream Spread – Essential for both the batter and as a topping; make a homemade version if you can’t find it in stores.
Powdered Sugar – Used for icing and dusting on top, adding that final touch of sweetness.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from baking this delightful Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F) for fan-convection or 180°C (356°F) for conventional baking. While the oven is heating up, prepare your springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper, ensuring easy release later. This step sets the foundation for your Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake to bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping
In a food processor, combine raw shelled pistachios, all-purpose flour, and granulated sugar. Pulse until the mixture resembles a fine meal. Next, add chilled vegan butter in small pieces and pulse again until it forms crumbly clumps. This mixture will create a delightful crunchy topping for your cake, enhancing its texture and flavor.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisking these dry ingredients ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents, which is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake. Set the bowl aside for later use.

Step 4: Create Vegan Buttermilk
In a separate bowl, combine soy milk and apple cider vinegar. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens and curdles, resembling buttermilk. This step is vital as it adds moisture to your cake while also activating the baking soda for the perfect rise.

Step 5: Blend Pistachios and Sugar
Return to your food processor, and process the raw pistachios with granulated sugar until finely ground. The mixture should resemble a flour-like texture that will infuse your cake with rich pistachio flavor. This step is essential in achieving the signature taste of your Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake.

Step 6: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature vegan butter using an electric mixer for one minute until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add the finely ground pistachio-sugar mixture and continue to whisk for another 2-3 minutes, until well combined and airy. This creates a rich base for the cake batter.

Step 7: Combine Wet Ingredients
Gently mix the vegan Greek-style yogurt, vanilla extract, and almond extract into the creamed butter mixture. Ensure everything is well incorporated for a smooth batter, as these ingredients contribute to the moisture and flavor profile of your Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake.

Step 8: Make the Batter
Gradually add the thickened buttermilk to the wet mixture, alternating with the sifted dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick yet smooth, ready to be transformed into a luscious cake baked to perfection.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the batter into the prepared springform pan, smoothing it out evenly. Spread the pistachio cream over this layer and cover it with the remaining batter. Finally, sprinkle the prepared pistachio crumble topping generously over the surface, adding visual appeal and texture to your Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake.

Step 10: Bake the Cake
Place the assembled cake into the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake—the edges will turn a golden brown while the center remains moist. The delicious aroma will fill your kitchen, making waiting a blissful experience.

Step 11: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it sit in the pan for around 10 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to avoid sogginess while ensuring the cake achieves its ideal texture and flavor.

Step 12: Glaze and Serve
Once cooled, prepare the icing by mixing powdered sugar with a little water until it reaches a smooth, drizzle-like consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the top of your Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake and dust with additional powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Slice and serve, imagining the warm flavors paired with your favorite coffee or tea.

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep it moist and fresh.

Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Ensure it’s covered to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: For extended storage, cut the cake into slices and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then freeze for up to a month. Thaw before serving for the best texture.

Reheating: To enjoy a slice warm, microwave for about 10-15 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes. The Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake will regain its delightful flavors!

Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful cake to make it even more unforgettable!

Nutty Alternatives: Replace raw pistachios with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile. Each nut brings its own delightful crunch and taste.
Sweet Additions: Fold in vegan chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to sweeten the deal. The addition of chocolate will offer a beautiful contrast to the nutty flavor!
Creamy Swaps: Use any nut or seed butter instead of pistachio cream spread for a unique twist. Sunflower seed butter, for example, will still provide that creamy texture you’re looking for.
Chocolate Drizzle: After glazing, drizzle some melted vegan chocolate on top for an extra decadent finish. Chocolate and pistachios are always a match made in dessert heaven.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour, ensuring everyone can enjoy this sweet treat. It’s a simple change that allows gluten-sensitive friends to indulge as well!
Flavor Boost: For a hint of spice, add a teaspoon of ground cardamom or cinnamon to the batter. These warm spices pair beautifully with the earthy flavor of pistachios.
Berry Bliss: Top the cake with fresh raspberries or chopped strawberries before serving for a refreshing burst of flavor. They not only taste great but also look stunning on the vibrant green cake.

If you’re excited about experimenting, you might also love my recipe for Blueberry Coffee Cake that lets you play with fruity flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all your wet and dry ingredients before refrigerating it, helping to maintain flavor and texture. To keep the cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also prepare the pistachio crumble topping separately and keep it sealed at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the batter and topping and follow the final steps of pouring the batter into the pan, adding the topping, and baking. Enjoy delicious, effortless results that taste just as fresh!

Expert Tips for Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake

Measure Carefully: Accurate measuring of ingredients is crucial for success. Use a kitchen scale to ensure you’re using the right amounts for your Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake.
Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Cooling is Key: Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing. If you glaze while warm, the icing may melt and lose its beautiful finish.
Pan Prep: Always line your springform pan with parchment paper. This simple step makes it easy to remove the cake without damaging its delicate topping.
Flavor Boost: For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract or folding in some vegan chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful twist.
Storage Tips: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness.

What to Serve with Moist Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake

Indulging in a slice of this velvety coffee cake opens up a delightful world of pairings that enhance its rich flavors.

Rich Dark Roast Coffee: The deep flavors of a dark roast perfectly complement the nutty notes of pistachio, creating a harmonious blend for your coffee break. Just imagine sipping your favorite brew alongside each flaky bite.
Herbal Tea Infusion: A soothing cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, adds an aromatic touch that balances the sweetness of the cake, making it a comforting choice for afternoon tea.
Fresh Berries: Lightly sweetened mixed berries bring a burst of freshness, contrasting beautifully with the cake’s dense texture and elevating each mouthful with a zesty twist.
Coconut Whipped Cream: A scoop of airy coconut whipped cream serves as a luscious topping that adds a delightful creaminess, enhancing the overall indulgence of the dessert.
Lemon Sorbet: The zing of lemon sorbet provides a refreshing cleanse to the palate, allowing the rich pistachio flavor to shine through after each delightful spoonful.
Chilled Almond Milk: Offering a nutty flavor that mirrors the pistachios, chilled almond milk pairs smoothly with each slice, creating a delightful harmony of tastes.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of rich vegan chocolate sauce adds an irresistible touch of decadence, perfect for those who love combining flavors in sweet treats.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkling a touch of cinnamon sugar on your cake not only enhances its appearance but adds a warm, spicy nuance that beautifully complements the nutty flavors.
Mint Garnish: A sprig of fresh mint brightens the dessert and brings a hint of freshness, making every bite feel slightly more sophisticated and refreshing.

As you relish your Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake, let these pairings transport you into a world of delightful flavors and warm memories!

Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs

How can I choose the best pistachios for this cake?
Absolutely! When selecting pistachios, look for raw shelled ones that are vibrant green without any dark spots or wrinkles. Fresh pistachios should have a pleasant nutty aroma. Avoid those that have an off smell or are overly dry, as these can affect the cake’s flavor and texture.

What is the best way to store leftover Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you plan to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, ensuring it’s well covered to avoid drying out. When ready to enjoy, let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly for a delicious treat!

Can I freeze the Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake? How?
Yes! For longer storage, you can absolutely freeze this cake. First, cut the cake into slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them into a freezer-safe bag or container. This method keeps it fresh for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place a slice in the fridge overnight or microwave it for 10-15 seconds directly from the freezer.

What should I do if my cake isn’t rising?
Very good question! If your Vegan Pistachio Coffee Cake isn’t rising properly, it might be due to expired baking powder or baking soda. Always check the expiration date before use. Additionally, ensure that your oven is at the correct temperature—an oven thermometer can help. If you have overmixed the batter, it can also lead to a denser texture. Mix gently and only until incorporated for the best results.

Are there any allergens I should be aware of in this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe contains nuts (pistachios) and soy (from the soy milk), which are common allergens. If you’re baking for someone with these allergies, consider substituting the pistachios with sunflower seeds or another nut-free alternative, and opt for oat or coconut milk. Always label desserts that contain allergens if sharing!