Best Vegan Black Forest Cake Recipe for Every Occasion

Black Forest cake is a timeless classic known for its luscious layers of chocolate sponge, tart cherries, and fluffy whipped cream. But what if you want to enjoy this decadent dessert without any animal products?

Enter our best vegan black forest cake recipe—a moist, rich, and utterly delicious version that’s entirely plant-based. Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking to try something new, this cake will hit all the right notes.

This recipe combines deep cocoa flavor, homemade cherry filling, and dairy-free whipped cream to create an indulgent treat that everyone will love. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

Let’s dive into creating a vegan Black Forest cake that’s as beautiful as it is scrumptious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan Black Forest cake isn’t just a substitute; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that stand proudly alongside traditional recipes. Here’s why it will quickly become a favorite:

• Moist and tender chocolate cake: Made with plant-based ingredients, the cake layers are rich and fluffy without any compromise.
• Fresh cherry filling: Homemade cherry compote adds a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Light and airy coconut whipped cream: Dairy-free and naturally fluffy, it complements the cake beautifully.
• Easy to make: With accessible ingredients and clear steps, even beginners can create a stunning dessert.
• Perfect for all diets: Free of eggs, dairy, and refined sugars (optional), making it suitable for many dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• For the Chocolate Cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant milk)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 2 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water or hot coffee (to enhance chocolate flavor)
• For the Cherry Filling:
• 3 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
• ⅓ cup maple syrup or sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
• For the Coconut Whipped Cream:
• 2 cans full-fat coconut milk (refrigerated overnight)
• ¼ cup powdered sugar or confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For Decoration:
• Dark chocolate shavings or curls
• Fresh cherries (optional)

Equipment

• Two 8-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Saucepan (for cherry filling)
• Cooling rack
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife or cake leveler

Instructions

1. Prepare your pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond milk, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract.
4. Make the batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Slowly add the hot water or coffee and stir gently. The batter will be thin, but that’s perfect.
5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare cherry filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Stir until the mixture begins to simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 more minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
7. Make coconut whipped cream: Scoop the solid coconut cream from the chilled cans into a mixing bowl (discard or save the liquid for smoothies). Beat with an electric mixer on high speed until fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then beat again until combined.
8. Assemble the cake: Using a serrated knife or cake leveler, slice each cake layer horizontally to create four thin layers. Place one layer on your serving plate. Spread a thin layer of coconut whipped cream, then spoon over some cherry filling. Repeat with remaining layers, finishing with whipped cream on top and around the sides.
9. Decorate: Garnish the cake with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries for that signature Black Forest look.
10. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and cream to set. Slice and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For the best coconut whipped cream, make sure to chill the coconut milk cans overnight and only scoop the solid cream on top.”

• Use espresso or strong coffee instead of hot water in the batter for a deeper chocolate flavor.
• Substitute frozen cherries in the filling if fresh aren’t available, just thaw and drain excess liquid.
• For an extra touch, soak cake layers with cherry juice or a splash of cherry liqueur (if not serving kids or avoiding alcohol).
• Try using aquafaba (chickpea water) to whip a light meringue topping instead of coconut cream.
• Decorate with edible flowers or dust with cocoa powder for a creative presentation.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan Black Forest cake shines best when served slightly chilled, making it a perfect centerpiece for celebrations. Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of almond milk for a cozy treat.

For an added indulgence, serve with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or fresh berries on the side.

Looking for more delicious vegan dessert inspiration? Check out our Magic Dough Recipe for a versatile base, or try the Marzipan Challah Recipe to explore unique vegan bread options.

If you want a fun twist, the Lump Of Coal Recipe is an exciting treat to try next!

Conclusion

This best vegan Black Forest cake recipe proves that you don’t need eggs or dairy to create a stunning, delicious dessert that everyone will rave about. With its moist chocolate layers, tangy cherry filling, and creamy coconut whipped topping, it offers all the classic flavors with a compassionate twist.

Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake is a showstopper on any occasion.

Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is approachable, rewarding, and endlessly customizable. Give it a try and watch it disappear at your next gathering!

Don’t forget to explore other amazing recipes on our site to keep your kitchen adventures exciting and flavorful.

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