Finding the perfect vanilla cake that’s both gluten free and vegan can often feel like an impossible task. Many recipes either compromise on flavor or texture, leaving you with a cake that is dry or bland.
But what if you could have a cake that is moist, fluffy, and bursting with classic vanilla goodness — all while catering to your dietary needs? This best gluten free vegan vanilla cake recipe offers just that!
It’s crafted with simple, wholesome ingredients and designed to delight everyone at the table, whether or not they follow a gluten free or vegan lifestyle.
This cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses ingredients you can find in most grocery stores.
Ready to bake a cake that’s as inclusive as it is delicious? Let’s dive right in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich flavor and light texture. Using a combination of gluten free flours ensures the cake is tender and crumbly without being gritty or dense.
The vegan ingredients — like plant-based milk and flax eggs — replace traditional dairy and eggs without sacrificing moisture or structure.
Whether you have dietary restrictions or are simply looking for a healthier alternative, this cake delivers a classic, comforting vanilla flavor that everyone will love. It’s also easily customizable with your favorite frostings or add-ins, so you can make it uniquely yours every time.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups gluten free all-purpose flour blend (make sure it contains xanthan gum)
- ¾ cup almond flour (or other nut flour)
- 1 cup organic cane sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup refined coconut oil, melted (or vegetable oil)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed + 6 tablespoons water (flax eggs)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or electric mixer
- 9-inch round cake pans (2)
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Rubber spatula
- Oven
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare flax eggs: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons water. Stir well and let sit for 10 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten free all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix almond milk and apple cider vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle—this acts like vegan buttermilk. Then add the melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and flax eggs. Whisk until smooth.
- Blend wet and dry: Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while stirring gently with a rubber spatula or mixer on low speed. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Divide batter evenly: Pour the batter into the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with the spatula.
- Bake: Place pans in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a cooling rack and cool completely before frosting.
- Frost and assemble: Once cooled, frost with your favorite vegan frosting. For a simple option, try a classic vegan buttercream or coconut whipped cream.
Tips & Variations
“For the fluffiest texture, don’t skip the apple cider vinegar—it reacts with the baking soda to give the cake a light crumb.”
- Use a gluten free flour blend with xanthan gum included to help bind the cake and improve texture.
- Swap almond flour for oat flour if you prefer a milder nut flavor, but ensure your oats are certified gluten free.
- Add lemon zest or a teaspoon of almond extract for a fun flavor twist on the classic vanilla.
- Mix in fresh berries or chocolate chips to the batter before baking for bursts of flavor.
- For a layered cake, double the recipe and use three 8-inch pans. This recipe also works great as cupcakes—reduce baking time to 18-22 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 32 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 9 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Sugar | 18 g |
Sodium | 180 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vanilla cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit toppings like sliced strawberries or raspberries. For an indulgent treat, try spreading a layer of vegan chocolate ganache between the cake layers or drizzle with a tangy fruit compote.
Serve alongside a cup of hot tea or your favorite dairy free coffee creamer latte for a cozy afternoon snack. You can also check out our Magic Dough Recipe for a complementary vegan pastry to accompany your cake!
Conclusion
This best gluten free vegan vanilla cake recipe is a testament to how inclusive baking can be both delicious and easy. Whether you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions or simply want a wholesome, tasty treat, this cake delivers on all fronts.
With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Don’t forget to experiment with different frostings and mix-ins to keep things exciting.
For more vegan baking inspiration, you might enjoy our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes or our delightful Marzipan Challah Recipe.
Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of your homemade gluten free vegan vanilla cake!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Gluten Free Vegan Vanilla Cake
Description: A moist and fluffy vanilla cake that's both gluten free and vegan. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is easy to make and delicious.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups gluten free all-purpose flour
- 1 cup organic cane sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, mix almond milk and apple cider vinegar; let sit 5 minutes to curdle.
- In a large bowl, whisk together gluten free flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, applesauce, and curdled almond milk to dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 30 g
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