Best Vegan And Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe By Vitacost

Updated On: October 5, 2025

Indulging in a rich, moist chocolate cake without compromising your dietary needs can sometimes feel like a challenge, especially when you’re looking for a dessert that is both vegan and gluten-free. Fortunately, the best vegan and gluten free chocolate cake recipe by Vitacost is here to satisfy your chocolate cravings without any guilt.

This delightful cake combines wholesome ingredients that cater to those with dietary restrictions while delivering an irresistible taste and texture that everyone will love.

Whether you’re hosting a celebration, looking for a comforting treat, or simply want to enjoy a slice of decadent chocolate cake, this recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to make, uses pantry staples, and bakes into a tender, fluffy masterpiece.

Plus, it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family who follow vegan or gluten-free diets. Let’s dive in and discover why this recipe is a must-have in your dessert repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan and gluten-free chocolate cake checks all the boxes for a deliciously decadent dessert that’s also mindful of dietary restrictions.

  • Rich and Moist Texture: Thanks to the blend of gluten-free flours and plant-based fats, the cake stays incredibly soft and moist.
  • Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find ingredients, many of which you may already have in your pantry.
  • Allergy-Friendly: No dairy, eggs, or gluten means it’s suitable for many dietary needs.
  • Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a special treat, and can be paired with a variety of frostings or toppings.
  • Healthier Alternative: Uses natural sweeteners and wholesome flours to create a dessert that feels indulgent yet nourishing.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (make sure it contains xanthan gum)
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process for deeper flavor)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup organic coconut sugar or brown sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • ⅓ cup virgin coconut oil, melted
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (acts as an egg replacer)
  • ½ cup vegan dark chocolate chips (optional, for added richness)

Equipment

  • Two 8-inch round cake pans
  • Mixing bowls (medium and large)
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Cooling rack
  • Parchment paper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the cake pans with a little coconut oil. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together the gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures there are no lumps and the dry ingredients are well combined.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the coconut sugar, almond milk, melted coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, vanilla extract, and applesauce. Mixing the wet ingredients well helps create a smooth batter.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently using a rubber spatula or mixer on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
  5. If using, fold in the vegan dark chocolate chips for a burst of melty chocolate goodness throughout the cake.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Once cooled, frost and decorate as desired. For a vegan frosting recipe, check out our Magic Dough Recipe for a delicious plant-based alternative.

Tips & Variations

“For best results, use a gluten-free flour blend that already contains xanthan gum to help with texture and binding.”

  • Substitute Flours: You can experiment with almond or oat flour, but you might need to adjust the liquid content accordingly.
  • Add Coffee: Replace half the almond milk with brewed coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.
  • Frosting Ideas: Try a vegan cream cheese frosting, avocado chocolate mousse, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
  • Make it Layered: Slice the cake horizontally for a layered effect and add fruit or jam between layers for extra flavor.
  • Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 slice)
Calories 240
Fat 12g
Saturated Fat 7g
Carbohydrates 33g
Fiber 5g
Sugar 18g
Protein 3g
Sodium 180mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegan and gluten-free chocolate cake pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a classic touch, serve with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Alternatively, a scoop of coconut milk ice cream or vegan whipped cream adds a luscious contrast.

For a festive occasion, drizzle with a rich vegan chocolate ganache or spread a layer of your favorite nut butter between cake layers. If you’re looking for a refreshing option, try serving alongside a cup of herbal tea or a chilled glass of almond milk.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love our other vegan dessert ideas like the Magic Dough Recipe or the decadent Lump Of Coal Recipe that are perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion

Creating a dessert that’s both vegan and gluten-free doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture. This best vegan and gluten free chocolate cake recipe by Vitacost proves that you can enjoy a luscious, moist chocolate cake that meets your dietary needs without compromise.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a cake that impresses both in taste and presentation.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a casual treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with different frostings and add-ins to make it uniquely yours.

For more wholesome and delicious recipes, check out our Marzipan Challah Recipe for a unique bread experience or explore our vegan savory options like the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes. Happy baking!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan and Gluten Free Chocolate Cake by Vitacost

Description: A rich and moist chocolate cake that's both vegan and gluten free. Perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT35M
Total Time: PT55M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups gluten free all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup organic cane sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup dairy free chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch cake pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together gluten free flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix almond milk, melted coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract.
  4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  5. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
  6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Allow cake to cool completely before removing from pan and serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 33 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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