best vegan choclate cake recipe Best Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe for Delicious Desserts

Updated On: October 5, 2025

If you’ve been searching for the perfect vegan chocolate cake that’s moist, rich, and absolutely decadent, look no further! This best vegan chocolate cake recipe strikes the perfect balance between fluffy texture and deep chocolate flavor, all without a single animal product.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just wanting to try a healthier, kinder dessert, this cake is guaranteed to impress. It’s simple to make, uses common pantry ingredients, and can be dressed up with your favorite frosting or enjoyed plain.

Baking a cake that everyone can enjoy has never been this easy or delicious!

This recipe is ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or just a cozy night in. Plus, it’s packed with tips and variations to customize it to your liking.

So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get started on creating a chocolate cake that’s as kind to animals as it is to your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan chocolate cake recipe is a standout for many reasons. First, it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

The cake is moist and tender thanks to a clever combination of plant-based milk and oil, and the cocoa powder adds an intense chocolate richness.

It’s also incredibly versatile; you can easily swap ingredients based on what you have or want to avoid. The recipe is free from eggs, dairy, and refined sugars if you choose, making it a healthier alternative to traditional cakes without sacrificing any flavor or texture.

Lastly, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, the step-by-step instructions will guide you to cake perfection every time.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
  • ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • ⅓ cup (80ml) vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (90g) vegan chocolate chips (optional, for extra gooeyness)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (at least two)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk or electric hand mixer
  • 8-inch round cake pans (2) or one 9×13-inch pan
  • Parchment paper (optional, for lining pans)
  • Cooling rack
  • Spatula

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pans with a little oil and optionally line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk well to blend.
  3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the almond milk, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula or whisk. Mix just until everything is moistened — avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
  5. Fold in the vegan chocolate chips if using, for a luscious chocolate burst inside the cake.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra moist cake, substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce.”

You can customize this recipe in many ways! Want a gluten-free option?

Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

To make a layered cake, double the recipe and stack the cooled cakes with your favorite vegan frosting. For a richer flavor, add a pinch of instant coffee powder to the wet ingredients — it enhances the chocolate taste without adding a coffee flavor.

If you’re looking for a frosting idea, try a simple vegan chocolate ganache made from coconut cream and melted dark chocolate, or a classic vegan buttercream.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving (1 slice)
Calories 280 kcal
Fat 12g
Saturated Fat 3g
Carbohydrates 40g
Sugar 22g
Protein 3g
Fiber 3g
Sodium 220mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegan chocolate cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a classic approach, dust the top with powdered sugar or cocoa powder.

Pair it with fresh berries or a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast. If you want to go all out, drizzle some homemade vegan caramel or raspberry sauce on top.

For celebrations, decorate with vegan whipped cream and chocolate shavings or sprinkles to make it festive and fun.

Conclusion

Creating a delicious vegan chocolate cake doesn’t have to be complicated or require rare ingredients. This recipe is a testament to how simple, plant-based ingredients can come together to produce a dessert that’s moist, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.

Whether you’re vegan or just curious to try something new, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

With its straightforward preparation, adaptable ingredients, and rich chocolate flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to explore other creative baking adventures on our blog like the Lump Of Coal Recipe, or try your hand at a beautiful Marzipan Challah Recipe.

For those who love dough-based delights, the Magic Dough Recipe is a must-try!

Happy baking and enjoy every bite of your vegan chocolate masterpiece!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Chocolate Cake

Description: A rich and moist vegan chocolate cake perfect for any occasion. Easy to make with simple plant-based ingredients.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT35M
Total Time: PT50M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup boiling water

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add almond milk, oil, vinegar, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
  4. Carefully stir in boiling water until fully combined.
  5. Pour batter into a greased 9-inch cake pan.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Allow cake to cool completely before frosting or serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 40g

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Marta K

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