Chocolate cake lovers, rejoice! Today, we’re diving into a luscious, moist, and completely vegan chocolate cake inspired by none other than Bryce Dallas Howard’s approach to indulgent yet plant-based desserts.
Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just exploring dairy-free options, this recipe promises a rich, chocolatey experience without compromising on flavor or texture. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake for birthdays, celebrations, or a cozy treat any day of the week.
What makes this cake stand out? It combines classic chocolate cake elements with wholesome vegan swaps that ensure every bite is tender and irresistibly chocolatey.
Plus, it’s free from eggs, dairy, and refined sugars, making it a thoughtful choice for those with dietary restrictions or anyone seeking a healthier alternative. Ready to impress your friends and family with a decadent dessert that’s both kind to animals and the planet?
Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan chocolate cake recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, delivering the rich, moist texture you crave in every bite. Thanks to the clever use of plant-based ingredients like flax eggs and coconut oil, the cake stays tender and fluffy.
Not only is it dairy-free and egg-free, but it also uses natural sweeteners, striking a perfect balance between sweetness and chocolate intensity. Its versatility allows you to easily customize it with your favorite frostings or toppings, making it suitable for any occasion.
Plus, this recipe is beginner-friendly and requires no specialized equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll love how simple and rewarding this vegan chocolate cake is to make.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for GF option)
- 1 cup organic cane sugar (or coconut sugar)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant milk)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup melted coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water (to make flax egg)
- ½ cup vegan chocolate chips (optional, for extra richness)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (at least two)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or electric mixer
- 9-inch round cake pan or two 8-inch pans
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pan(s) with coconut oil and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Stir well and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until it thickens and resembles an egg-like consistency.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk to combine thoroughly.
- Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the almond milk with apple cider vinegar and let it curdle for a few minutes. Add the melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and flax egg. Whisk until smooth.
- Incorporate wet into dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or whisk until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Fold in the vegan chocolate chips, if using, to add bursts of melty chocolate throughout the cake.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s), smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.
Tips & Variations
For an extra moist cake, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with oat flour or almond flour.
Try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor without adding coffee taste.
Swap the coconut oil for avocado oil for a more neutral flavor.
Use this cake as a base for layered cakes by doubling the recipe and baking in two pans.
For frosting, try a classic vegan buttercream or a simple chocolate ganache made with coconut cream and melted vegan chocolate chips.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 slice, approx. 1/12 cake) |
---|---|
Calories | 210 kcal |
Fat | 10 g |
Saturated Fat | 7 g |
Carbohydrates | 28 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Sugar | 16 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Cholesterol | 0 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan chocolate cake pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings and sides. For a classic touch, dust the top with powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
Consider serving with fresh berries, a dollop of coconut whipped cream, or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a bright contrast. For a more indulgent experience, pair it with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a rich chocolate ganache.
Want to turn it into a celebration centerpiece? Layer with your favorite vegan frosting and decorate with chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or edible flowers for a stunning presentation.
Conclusion
This Bryce Dallas Howard-inspired vegan chocolate cake is proof that you don’t need eggs or dairy to create a dessert that’s both rich and satisfying. The recipe is straightforward, uses accessible ingredients, and yields a cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
From the tender crumb to the deep chocolate flavor, it’s a treat that will win over vegans and non-vegans alike.
Not only does this cake satisfy your chocolate cravings, but it also aligns with a compassionate lifestyle and healthier eating habits. If you’re looking to explore more plant-based recipes, be sure to check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for a savory meal, or indulge in sweet treats like our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.
And for something completely different but just as delightful, try our Halibut Dip Recipe for your next gathering.
Happy baking and enjoy every vegan chocolatey bite!
📖 Recipe Card: Bryce Dallas Howard Vegan Chocolate Cake
Description: A rich and moist vegan chocolate cake inspired by Bryce Dallas Howard's favorite recipe. Perfectly balanced with plant-based ingredients for a deliciously indulgent treat.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
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 dairy-free chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch cake pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix almond milk, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips if using.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 28-30 minutes.
- Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
- Let cake cool completely before frosting or serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 40g
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