Best Vegan Cake Recipe NZ: Easy, Delicious & Healthy

Looking for the best vegan cake recipe in New Zealand that’s moist, flavorful, and completely plant-based? You’ve come to the right place!

Vegan baking in NZ has come a long way, and this cake recipe combines local ingredients with simple pantry staples to create a delicious, allergy-friendly treat that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer BBQ, or simply craving a sweet slice, this cake delivers on taste and texture without any animal products.

With the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, this cake is easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase some of New Zealand’s finest plant-based ingredients.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake a crowd-pleaser that even non-vegans will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan cake is a standout because it’s:

• Moist and tender: thanks to the use of plant-based yogurt and neutral oil, it’s never dry.
• Simple and quick: you likely have everything you need already in your pantry.
• Customizable: swap in your favourite fruits or nuts for added texture and flavour.
• Environmentally friendly: plant-based ingredients reduce your carbon footprint.
• Allergy-conscious: free from eggs and dairy, making it suitable for many dietary needs.

It’s a recipe that truly embraces the best of Kiwi vegan baking — approachable, tasty, and perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) plain flour – all-purpose or spelt flour works well
• 1 cup (200g) organic cane sugar – adjust based on sweetness preference
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup (240ml) unsweetened plant-based milk – almond, soy, or oat
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – creates the perfect rise
• ⅓ cup (80ml) neutral oil – canola, sunflower, or melted coconut oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120g) unsweetened plant-based yogurt – coconut or soy-based
• Optional mix-ins: ½ cup chopped walnuts, ½ cup fresh or frozen berries, or ¼ cup shredded coconut

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric hand mixer or whisk
• 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray
• Cooling rack
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease your cake pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a bowl, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle — this makes a vegan “buttermilk.”
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture: pour in the “buttermilk,” oil, vanilla extract, and plant-based yogurt. Use an electric mixer or whisk to stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
5. Fold in any optional mix-ins gently with a spatula — berries, nuts, or coconut add great texture and flavour.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
9. Once cool, frost or glaze as desired. For a simple, vegan frosting, try a cashew cream or coconut whipped cream.

Tips & Variations

“For extra moistness, swap half the oil for unsweetened applesauce — it’s a great way to reduce fat without losing flavour.”

• Chocolate Version: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and increase sugar by 2 tbsp.
• Citrus Twist: Add 1 tbsp finely grated lemon or orange zest for a fresh zing.
• Layer Cake: Double the recipe to make two layers for a celebration cake.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of plain flour, but check baking times as they may vary.
• Frosting Ideas: Try vegan cream cheese frosting or a simple dusting of icing sugar.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan cake pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed New Zealand coffee or a warm herbal tea. For an indulgent dessert, add a scoop of coconut-based ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream on the side.

Fresh berries or a drizzle of berry coulis also complement the cake’s subtle sweetness.

If you’re looking for more plant-based baking inspiration, you might enjoy our Magic Dough Recipe or the delightful Marzipan Challah Recipe. For savoury vegan delights, check out the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes.

Conclusion

This vegan cake recipe is a testament to how delicious and satisfying plant-based baking can be. Using simple, accessible ingredients common in New Zealand, it offers a moist, tender crumb and a sweet flavour that will impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and adaptable to your personal taste.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different mix-ins and frostings to make it your own. Sharing this cake with friends and family is a wonderful way to introduce them to the joys of vegan desserts.

Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of this kiwi-inspired vegan cake!

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