Vegan Yellow Cake Recipe for Fluffy, Delicious Desserts

Who says you can’t enjoy a fluffy, buttery yellow cake on a vegan diet? Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving something sweet, this vegan yellow cake recipe delivers all the classic flavor and texture—without a hint of dairy or eggs.

The crumb is tender, the color is golden and inviting, and the taste is nostalgic yet modern. If you’ve ever missed the comforting, sunny slices of traditional yellow cake, you’ll be amazed at how perfectly this plant-based version measures up.

This recipe is my answer to countless requests for a reliable, easy vegan yellow cake that holds up to frosting, layering, and even a little nostalgia. You’ll find that it’s not only simple to make, but also incredibly versatile.

Top it with vegan chocolate or vanilla frosting, fresh fruit, or enjoy it plain with a cup of tea. With a few accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, you can bake a cake that impresses vegans and non-vegans alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Flavor: Enjoy the rich, vanilla-infused sweetness of traditional yellow cake, with none of the animal products.
• Perfect Texture: Moist, fluffy, and holds together beautifully—ideal for stacking or serving as a sheet cake.
• Simple Ingredients: No complicated or hard-to-find components required.
• Allergy-Friendly: Dairy-free and egg-free, with easy adaptations for nut- and soy-free diets.
• Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with a range of vegan frostings, fruits, and fillings.
• Family-Approved: Even non-vegans come back for a second slice!

“This vegan yellow cake is a celebration of flavor and compassion—without compromise.”

Ingredients

The following table breaks down the main ingredients you’ll need for this cake. Each item is chosen for flavor, texture, and accessibility.

For the best results, use ingredients at room temperature.

Equipment

• Two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans (or one 9×13-inch sheet pan)
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Whisk and rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Hand mixer or stand mixer (optional)
• Parchment paper (for lining pans)
• Wire cooling rack
• Oven (preheated to 350°F/175°C)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and turmeric (if using) until well combined and free of lumps.
3. In a separate bowl or large liquid measuring cup, combine the plant-based milk, oil, melted vegan butter, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract. Stir well.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
6. Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes. Then carefully run a knife around the edges and invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once completely cool, frost and decorate as desired. Vegan buttercream, chocolate ganache, or your favorite vegan frosting all work beautifully.
9. Slice, serve, and enjoy! Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Tip: For cupcakes, fill liners about 2/3 full and bake for 18-22 minutes.

Tips & Variations

• For a fluffier cake: Sift the flour before measuring, and avoid overmixing the batter.
• Nut-free version: Use oat or soy milk and a soy-free vegan butter.
• Soy-free adaptation: Choose almond milk or oat milk, and a soy-free vegan butter or simply increase the oil.
• Color boost: Turmeric is optional, but just a pinch gives the cake a beautiful, sunny hue without altering the flavor.
• Layered celebration cake: Double the recipe for a tall, multi-layered cake perfect for birthdays and parties.
• Frosting ideas: Classic vegan buttercream, vegan chocolate ganache, or lemon glaze are all delicious choices.
• Mix-ins: Fold in 1/2 cup of fresh berries, mini vegan chocolate chips, or finely chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Sheet cake option: Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch pan and bake for 32-36 minutes. This is great for potlucks and casual gatherings.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, but check for doneness as bake time may vary slightly.

“Don’t be afraid to make this cake your own! Add citrus zest, swap the vanilla for almond extract, or layer with jam for a creative twist.”

Nutrition Facts

Curious about the nutrition? Here’s an approximate breakdown for one slice (1/12 of the cake, unfrosted):

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on specific brands and frosting choices.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Layer Cake: Frost with vegan vanilla or chocolate buttercream and decorate with sprinkles for a party-perfect dessert.
• Berry Delight: Top with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
• Sheet Cake for Crowds: Serve plain or with a drizzle of vegan lemon glaze at potlucks or gatherings.
• Cupcakes: Divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18-22 minutes for perfectly portioned treats.
• Pairing: Serve with a scoop of vegan ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Breakfast Treat: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea for a sweet start to your day.

For more vegan baking inspiration, check out my Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and discover other creative treats!

Conclusion

This vegan yellow cake recipe proves that plant-based baking can be just as rich, moist, and satisfying as the classics you remember. With its tender crumb and nostalgic vanilla flavor, it’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something special.

The best part? It’s so simple that even beginner bakers will find success.

Whether you enjoy it as a simple snack or dress it up for a celebration, this cake is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try pairing it with my Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes for a savory-sweet dinner party, or explore more plant-based meal ideas with my Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

Happy baking, and enjoy every golden bite!

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