Easy and Delicious Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe

What is a chocolate cake? It’s not just any chocolate cake, it’s the one I make when I need a guaranteed win. Think of it as the vegan version of your grandma’s favorite chocolate cake, but even easier to whip up. Is this vegan chocolate cake? What is plant-based? What’s your favorite vegan chocolate cake recipe? My kids are obsessed, and honestly, so am I!
What is vegan chocolate cake?
Is this pure chocolate bliss in cake form, but without eggs or dairy? Is it really a chocolate cake? What are the ingredients to deliver that perfect texture and flavor? I was trying to bake a cake for my friend with allergies, and this happened. Think of it as an accident – I’m baking for 3 days now. What is masterpiece? What are some simple swaps that make all the difference? Is this a one-bowl wonder?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Let’s get real, shall we? Why do I need to make vegan chocolate cake? What are some of the best flavor combinations? It’s deeply chocolatey, with a hint of coffee that enhances the richness. What I love about this is how moist it is. Seriously, it stays soft and delicious for days (if it even lasts that long).
What is the simplicity that shines? Is this recipe easy enough for a teenager? What are some pantry staples that you can whip up anytime you’re craving something sweet? It’s way cheaper than buying a vegan cake from the store, and let’s be honest, it tastes so much better.
And the versatility! Can you frost it with your favorite vegan frosting? ), top it with fresh berries, or even dust it just with powdered sugar. Is it good for cupcakes? What is a quick and delicious dessert? What’s your favorite vegan chocolate cake recipe?
How do I make vegan chocolate cake?
Quick Overview
How do you make a delicious cake? What is the process of whisking together dry ingredients, then wet ingredients and baking? What should I do if I overmix my cake? Is it really that simple?
Ingredients Notes
For the Cake:
* All-Purpose Flour: What is a gluten-free cake? Is it a 1:1 replacement?
* Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the texture of the cake. I’ve even used coconut sugar with good results!
* Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: The star of the show! Use a good quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.
* Baking Soda & baking powder: These are your leavening agents, helping the cake rise. Don’t skip them!
* Salt: Enhances other flavors and balances the sweetness.
* Plant-Based Milk: I usually use almond milk, but soy, oat, or cashew milk will work too. What do you like the most?
* Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist. Canola or sunflower oil also work well.
* Apple Cider Vinegar: This reacts with baking soda to create a light and fluffy texture. Don’t worry, you won’T taste it!
* Vanilla Extract: Adds a touch of warmth and flavor.
* Hot coffee: This intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds moisture. Don’t worry, the cake will not taste like coffee! You can also use hot water if you prefer.
For the Frosting (Optional):
* Vegan Butter: Make sure it’s softened for a smooth frosting.
* Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and structure to the frosting.
* Unsweetened cocoa powder: More chocolate goodness!
* Plant-Based Milk: To adjust the consistency of the frosting.
* Vanilla Extract: For flavor!
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. I always use parchment paper on the bottom too, just to be extra sure the cake doesn’t stick. Is it worth the extra step?
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Make sure everything is well combined so there are no lumps of cocoa powder. Is there any difference in cake texture?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Set aside. What is vanilla extract? Make sure the apple cider vinegar is well incorporated. What should I do if my mixture looks curdled?
Step 4: Combine
Do not over mix wet and dry ingredients! How do I make a batter that is smooth? Now, carefully pour in the hot coffee and stir until the batter is thin and smooth. What is the secret to a moist cake?
Step 5: Bake
If you have a wooden skewer, pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown. When inserted into the center comes out clean. How long does it take to bake a cake?
Step 6: Cool
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. How do I bake a cake without sticking to the pan?
Step 7: Frost (Optional)
While the cake is cooling, make the frosting (if using). In a large bowl, beat the softened vegan butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating until well combined. Add the plant-based milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 8: Frost & Serve
Once the cake is completely cool, frost it with the vegan chocolate frosting. How do you create a frosting? Slice and serve immediately, or chill for later.
What should I serve it with?
What is a good vegan chocolate cake recipe? How can I elevate it for different occasions?
For Breakfast:What’s a good way to start the day with coffee? What’s my secret when I need a pick-me-up?
For Brunch:Dress it up with fresh berries and powdered sugar. Serve with mimosas or sparkling cider for a festive brunch.
As Dessert:What are some good vegan ice cream recipes? A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of Chocolate shavings adds an extra touch of indulgence.
For Cozy Snacks:Enjoy a slice of cheese with ice-cold milk or herbal tea. What are some comfort food recipes for a chilly evening?
My family loves it with a simple homemade raspberry sauce. The tartness of the raspberries complements the richness of the chocolate perfectly! I always make a big batch and store it in the fridge for cake emergencies. What happens at 9pm on a Tuesday?
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Easy and Delicious Vegan Chocolate Cake
Okay, I’ve made this cake *a lot*, so I’ve learned a few tricks along the way. Here’s my best advice for a perfect cake every time:
Don’t Overmix: I can’t stress this enough! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the ingredients blend together more easily and creates a smoother batter.
Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so accurate measurements are important. Use measuring cups and spoons, and level them off with a knife.
Don’t Open the Oven Door Too Often: This can cause the cake to collapse. Only open the oven door to check for doneness after the minimum baking time.
Let the Cake Cool Completely Before Frosting: If you frost the cake while it’s still warm, the frosting will melt and slide off. Patience, my friend!
Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon, a dash of espresso powder, or a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a twist on the classic recipe.
I also found that adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the flour helps create a slightly softer cake. It’s a trick I learned from my grandma, and it works like a charm!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This cake is so good, it probably won’t last long! But if you do have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This works best if you haven’t frosted it.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake may become slightly drier in the fridge, so you may want to add a little extra frosting before serving.
Freezer Instructions: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
If you’re freezing the cake, I recommend frosting it after it’s been thawed. This will prevent the frosting from getting soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This **easy and delicious vegan chocolate cake recipe** is more than just a cake – it’s a guarantee that everyone in your house—vegan, gluten-free, or just plain hungry for something delicious—will have a great day. It’s my go-to when I’m craving something chocolatey, and I know it’ll be yours too. Seriously, the simplicity and incredible flavor make it a winner every time. If you’re loving this cake, be sure to check out my other vegan dessert recipes! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!

Easy and Delicious Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or any plant-based milk
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup boiling water
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the almond milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
- Stir in the apple cider vinegar until the batter is smooth.
- Gradually stir in the boiling water until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.