If you’re searching for a delightful and fragrant treat that’s both vegan-friendly and utterly delicious, this cardamom cake recipe is for you! The warm, aromatic spice of cardamom pairs beautifully with the tender crumb of a moist, plant-based cake.
Whether you’re catering to dietary preferences or simply want to try a new twist on classic baking, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture without any animal products.
This vegan cardamom cake is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to serve as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or elegant dessert. Its subtle sweetness and exotic spice make it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s an excellent way to introduce the unique taste of cardamom to your baking repertoire.
Plus, it’s made with wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan cardamom cake is a wonderful bake for many reasons. First, it’s completely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and those with dairy or egg allergies.
The cake’s delicate crumb is light yet moist, creating a satisfying texture that melts in your mouth.
Cardamom, often called the “queen of spices,” lends a fragrant and slightly citrusy flavor that elevates the cake without overpowering it. It pairs beautifully with a hint of vanilla and a touch of natural sweetness from coconut sugar or maple syrup.
This cake also uses simple, natural ingredients — no complicated substitutes or hard-to-find items.
Finally, it’s incredibly adaptable! Whether you want to glaze it with a lemon drizzle, dust it with powdered sugar, or add chopped nuts for crunch, this recipe provides a fantastic base for your creativity.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier taste)
- 1 cup coconut sugar or organic brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cardamom (freshly ground preferred)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- ⅓ cup melted coconut oil or neutral vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ cup chopped pistachios or almonds for topping
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Spatula
- 9-inch round cake pan or loaf pan
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, coconut sugar, ground cardamom, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the almond milk, melted coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together using a spatula or whisk. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until there are no dry spots.
- Transfer the batter to your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. If using, sprinkle chopped pistachios or almonds evenly over the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Variations
“For the best cardamom flavor, grind whole green cardamom pods fresh using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder. Pre-ground cardamom can lose its potency quickly.”
- Glaze it up: Mix powdered sugar with a squeeze of lemon juice or almond milk for a simple drizzle to brighten the cake.
- Add texture: Fold in ½ cup of shredded coconut, raisins, or chopped dates for a richer bite.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but be sure to add 1 tsp of xanthan gum for structure.
- Spice it differently: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg alongside cardamom for a warm spice mix.
- Serving size tip: For smaller gatherings, bake in a loaf pan for easy slicing or mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 15g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Serving Suggestions
This cardamom cake is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to elevate your serving experience:
- Serve slices with a dollop of coconut whipped cream or vegan yogurt for a creamy contrast.
- Top with fresh berries or a berry compote to add a touch of tartness and color.
- Enjoy alongside a hot cup of chai tea or a spiced latte to complement the cardamom aroma.
- For a festive occasion, dust the cake lightly with powdered sugar and garnish with edible rose petals or crushed pistachios.
Conclusion
This vegan cardamom cake recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and moist dessert that fits seamlessly into a plant-based lifestyle. The aromatic cardamom makes every bite special, and the simple ingredients ensure that you can whip it up anytime with ease.
Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress.
Beyond its delightful taste, it’s a versatile canvas for creativity — from glazes and nuts to additional spices. If you love this recipe, don’t miss out on other unique dishes like our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for a savory meal or our cozy Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.
For something sweet and refreshing, check out the Lemon Straws Recipe next.
Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with the warm, inviting scent of cardamom!
📖 Recipe Card: Cardamom Cake Recipe Vegan
Description: A fragrant and moist vegan cardamom cake perfect for any occasion. This recipe uses plant-based ingredients for a deliciously spiced treat.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground cardamom
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cardamom.
- In another bowl, combine almond milk, oil, vinegar, vanilla, and applesauce.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry and mix until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cake cool before removing from the pan and serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 40 g
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