Cakey Brownie Recipe Vegan: Easy, Moist, and Delicious

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Brownies are a timeless treat, beloved by many for their rich chocolate flavor and satisfying texture. But what if you want to enjoy this classic dessert without eggs, dairy, or any animal products?

Enter the cakey brownie recipe vegan – a delightful twist that delivers moist, tender, and fluffy brownies perfect for vegans and anyone looking for a healthier, plant-based option. These brownies boast a cakey crumb that melts in your mouth, combining the best of both worlds: indulgent chocolate goodness with a light, airy bite.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, have dietary restrictions, or just want to try something new, this recipe is simple to follow and uses everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can add nuts, dairy-free chocolate chips, or even swirl in some peanut butter for an extra touch of decadence.

Ready to bake your way to vegan brownie bliss? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan cakey brownie recipe is a game changer for chocolate lovers craving a tender and fluffy texture without compromising on flavor. Unlike fudgy brownies that can sometimes feel dense or heavy, these brownies have a light crumb that is wonderfully cakey, making them perfect for those who prefer a less chewy bite.

Key reasons to love this recipe:

  • Uses simple, wholesome ingredients with no eggs or dairy.
  • Perfectly balanced sweetness that highlights the rich chocolate flavor.
  • Quick and easy to make – no complicated techniques required.
  • Moist and tender texture that stays fresh for days.
  • Customizable with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or vegan chocolate chips.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour for GF brownies)
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (use Dutch-processed for deeper flavor)
  • 1 cup organic cane sugar (or coconut sugar for a richer taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (helps the brownies rise and adds tenderness)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips or chopped nuts

Equipment

  • 8×8 inch square baking pan
  • Mixing bowls (one large, one small)
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Cooling rack

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the almond milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle and create a vegan “buttermilk.”
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Add the wet ingredients: To the dry ingredients, pour in the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and the almond milk mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies cakey and tender.
  5. If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in now.
  6. Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top evenly.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake as this can dry out the brownies.
  8. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack before slicing.

Tips & Variations

Pro Tip: For extra fudgy pockets, sprinkle some vegan chocolate chips on top halfway through baking. They’ll melt beautifully and create rich, gooey bites.

  • Nut-Free: Simply omit nuts or replace with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for crunch without allergens.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep the texture cakey and moist.
  • Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee powder or espresso to intensify the chocolate flavor.
  • Swirl Variation: Dollop peanut butter or almond butter on top of the batter and swirl with a knife before baking for a decadent twist.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 180 kcal
Fat 8g
Saturated Fat 2g
Carbohydrates 28g
Fiber 3g
Sugar 18g
Protein 2g
Sodium 150mg

Serving Suggestions

These cakey vegan brownies are delightful on their own but can be elevated with a few simple touches. Serve warm with a scoop of your favorite vegan vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of dairy-free chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert.

You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar or top with fresh berries to add a refreshing contrast.

For a fun twist, pair them with a cup of vegan hot chocolate or a plant-based latte for cozy afternoons or after-dinner treats. These brownies also freeze well – just thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Whether you’re vegan, have dietary restrictions, or simply want to try a healthier take on a classic dessert, this cakey brownie recipe vegan is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Its tender, cakey texture and rich flavor make it a versatile treat that can be enjoyed by everyone.

The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients that pack maximum flavor and moisture.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with mix-ins and toppings to make it your own. And if you love diving into delicious recipes like this, be sure to check out our other favorites such as Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe, Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food, and Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes to keep your vegan cooking exciting and flavorful.

Happy baking!

📖 Recipe Card: Cakey Brownie Recipe Vegan

Description: Deliciously moist and cakey vegan brownies that are easy to make. Perfect for a healthy dessert or snack.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 9 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 cup organic cane sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
  3. Add applesauce, oil, almond milk, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
  4. Fold in vegan chocolate chips.
  5. Pour batter into a greased 8×8 inch baking pan.
  6. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Allow brownies to cool before cutting and serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 9 g | Carbs: 33 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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