Discovering the perfect vanilla cupcake that ticks all the boxes—gluten-free, vegan, and irresistibly fluffy—can feel like a culinary treasure hunt. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to enjoy a wholesome treat, this best gluten free vegan vanilla cupcake recipe promises a delightful experience for all.
These cupcakes are light, tender, and bursting with natural vanilla flavor, making them an ideal dessert for celebrations or an everyday sweet craving. Plus, with a few simple pantry staples and easy steps, you’ll be whipping up bakery-quality cupcakes that everyone can enjoy without worry.
Say goodbye to dry or crumbly gluten-free cakes and hello to moist, flavorful bites that satisfy your sweet tooth while honoring your lifestyle choices. Ready to impress your friends and family with these fluffy delights?
Let’s dive right into why you’ll love this recipe and how to bring it to life in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for anyone navigating gluten-free and vegan baking. It combines the best of both worlds, ensuring cupcakes that are not only safe for those avoiding gluten and animal products but also rich in taste and texture.
Gluten-free flours are often tricky to work with, but the blend used here ensures a tender crumb that doesn’t fall apart. The recipe uses natural plant-based ingredients to create moisture and fluffiness without eggs or dairy.
Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or a simple treat, these cupcakes freeze well and can be topped with your favorite vegan frosting. Plus, it’s customizable with add-ins or variations for different tastes.
It’s a reliable, delicious, and easy-to-make recipe that will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (make sure it includes xanthan gum)
- 1 cup organic cane sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup melted coconut oil (or neutral oil like avocado)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 tsp vanilla bean paste for extra vanilla flavor
Equipment
- Muffin tin with 12 cups
- Paper cupcake liners
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer (optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the almond milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle and create a vegan buttermilk substitute.
- Add the oil and vanilla: Stir in the melted coconut oil and vanilla extract (plus vanilla bean paste if using) into the vegan buttermilk mixture.
- Sift the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the gluten-free flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures there are no lumps and helps with a lighter texture.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, whisking gently until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Fill the cupcake liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full to allow room for rising.
- Bake: Place the tin in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool: Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Frost and decorate: Once cool, frost with your favorite vegan frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips & Variations
“For the fluffiest cupcakes, don’t skip sifting the dry ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter.”
- Flour blend: If your gluten-free flour blend doesn’t contain xanthan gum, add 1 tsp to help with structure.
- Milk alternatives: Use oat, soy, or coconut milk depending on your preference or availability.
- Flavor twists: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest or a pinch of cinnamon for a subtle flavor boost.
- Frosting ideas: Try vegan cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or simple vanilla buttercream made with vegan butter.
- Storage: Store cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Cupcake |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Fat | 8 g |
Saturated Fat | 5 g |
Carbohydrates | 26 g |
Fiber | 1 g |
Sugar | 15 g |
Protein | 1 g |
Sodium | 120 mg |
Serving Suggestions
These cupcakes are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide range of toppings and accompaniments. Serve them with a dollop of vegan whipped cream and fresh berries for a light and refreshing dessert.
For a more indulgent option, drizzle with vegan chocolate sauce or top with toasted coconut flakes. They also make a wonderful afternoon snack with a cup of herbal tea or a dairy-free latte.
Planning a party? Stack these cupcakes on a tiered stand decorated with edible flowers or colorful sprinkles to impress your guests.
Conclusion
Making the best gluten free vegan vanilla cupcakes at home is easier than you might think, and the results are truly rewarding. This recipe delivers cupcakes that are soft, moist, and bursting with classic vanilla flavor, all while being friendly to gluten- and animal-product-free diets.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a delicious treat without compromise.
Whether you’re baking for yourself, loved ones, or a special occasion, these cupcakes will bring joy and satisfaction to every bite. Don’t forget to explore other creative and delicious recipes on our site, like the Magic Dough Recipe, the delightful Marzipan Challah Recipe, or the fun and festive Lump Of Coal Recipe.
Happy baking and enjoy every crumb!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Gluten Free Vegan Vanilla Cupcake
Description: Deliciously moist and fluffy vanilla cupcakes that are both gluten free and vegan. Perfect for any occasion and easy to make.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 12 cupcakes
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 tsp 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 line a cupcake tin with liners.
- Mix almond milk and apple cider vinegar; let sit for 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 the almond milk mixture to dry ingredients; stir until smooth.
- Divide batter evenly into cupcake liners, filling about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting or serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 26 g
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