If you’re on the hunt for a truly indulgent dessert that’s both vegan and gluten-free, look no further than the almond meal chocolate cake. This luscious treat combines the nutty richness of almond meal with deep, decadent chocolate, creating a moist and flavorful cake that everyone can enjoy.
Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or simply love wholesome, plant-based sweets, this cake delivers on taste and texture without compromising on your health goals.
In this post, I’ll share not just one but the best vegan gluten-free almond meal chocolate cake recipes that will satisfy your chocolate cravings while keeping things wholesome and allergen-friendly. From classic chocolate lovers to those wanting a twist, these recipes are versatile and easy to make.
Plus, I’ll provide tips, variations, and serving suggestions to elevate your baking experience. Let’s dive right in and bake some magic!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This almond meal chocolate cake is a game-changer in the world of vegan and gluten-free baking. It’s naturally gluten-free thanks to almond meal, which provides a tender crumb and moist texture that traditional flour can’t match.
The use of plant-based ingredients means no eggs or dairy, making it suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.
What’s more, the cake is packed with rich cocoa flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s perfect for celebrations, afternoon treats, or whenever you crave a chocolate fix without the guilt.
The recipes are straightforward, requiring common pantry staples with minimal fuss, so both beginner and experienced bakers will find success.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond meal (finely ground, unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened, sifted)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup coconut sugar or organic cane sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (acts as egg replacer)
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dairy-free dark chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (helps with rise)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Silicone spatula
- 8-inch round cake pan or 9×5 loaf pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Oven
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides with coconut oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together almond meal, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and coconut sugar. Make sure the dry ingredients are well combined to avoid lumps.
- In a separate bowl, mix the applesauce, almond milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or whisk, gently fold the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- If using, fold in the dairy-free dark chocolate chips. This adds extra bursts of chocolatey goodness throughout the cake.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then transfer the cake to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Serve as is or top with your favorite vegan frosting or fresh berries.
Tips & Variations
“For a richer flavor, try roasting the almond meal lightly before using it in the batter. This enhances the nutty aroma and adds depth to the cake.”
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute almond meal with sunflower seed flour to avoid nuts while keeping the texture moist.
- Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of coconut sugar, but reduce the almond milk slightly to maintain batter consistency.
- Frosting Ideas: Try a vegan cream cheese frosting, coconut whipped cream, or a simple chocolate ganache made with coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate.
- Flavor Boost: Add 1 tsp espresso powder to intensify the chocolate taste or a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
- Make it a Layer Cake: Double the recipe and bake in two pans for a layered celebration cake.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving (1/10 cake) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Fat | 16 g |
Saturated Fat | 6 g |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sugar | 8 g |
Protein | 5 g |
Calcium | 80 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This almond meal chocolate cake pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings and accompaniments. For a simple yet elegant dessert, dust the cake with powdered sugar or cocoa powder and serve with fresh raspberries or strawberries.
A dollop of coconut whipped cream or vegan vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the dense, chocolatey cake.
For special occasions, drizzle a rich vegan chocolate ganache over the top or layer the cake with vegan frosting and sliced almonds for added texture. Serve alongside a cup of your favorite coffee, tea, or a creamy nut milk latte to complete a cozy treat.
More Delicious Vegan Recipes to Try
- Magic Dough Recipe – Perfect for plant-based baking and savory dishes.
- Julie Marie Eats Recipes – Explore a variety of vegan delights.
- Leche De Pantera Recipe – A vegan twist on a creamy, indulgent drink.
Conclusion
These vegan gluten-free almond meal chocolate cake recipes are a wonderful way to savor rich, chocolatey goodness without compromising your dietary choices. The almond meal brings a moist, tender crumb while providing healthy fats and protein, and the simple, natural ingredients keep this cake wholesome and delicious.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these recipes offer flexibility and ease, ensuring a satisfying dessert for all. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and serving ideas to truly make this cake your own.
Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of your vegan chocolate delight!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Gluten Free Almond Meal Chocolate Cake
Description: A rich and moist chocolate cake made with almond meal, perfect for vegan and gluten-free diets. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond meal
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup coconut sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dairy-free dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
- In a large bowl, mix almond meal, cocoa powder, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine almond milk, melted coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in dark chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cake to cool before slicing and serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 7 g | Fat: 25 g | Carbs: 18 g
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