Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cake Recipe for Every Occasion

Updated On: October 5, 2025

If you’re on the hunt for a decadent, moist, and utterly delicious chocolate chip cake that’s entirely plant-based, you’ve come to the right place! This best vegan chocolate chip cake recipe combines rich flavors and a tender crumb, making it a perfect treat for vegans and non-vegans alike.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this cake will satisfy your chocolatey desires without any animal products.

Made with simple pantry staples and easy-to-find vegan ingredients, this recipe is both approachable and foolproof. The chocolate chips add delightful bursts of melty goodness in every bite, while the cake remains fluffy and moist thanks to the perfect balance of wet and dry ingredients.

Plus, it’s free from eggs, dairy, and refined sugars, making it a kinder choice for your body and the planet.

Ready to bake a show-stopping dessert that everyone will love? Let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan chocolate chip cake stands out for several reasons. First, it uses wholesome, plant-based ingredients without compromising on taste or texture.

The crumb is tender yet sturdy enough to hold the generous amount of chocolate chips throughout the cake.

Second, the recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to customize. You can swap in your favorite dairy-free milk or add nuts and spices to suit your preferences.

It’s also quick to mix up, requiring just one bowl and minimal prep time, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether it’s a family dessert or a treat for your vegan friends, this cake is sure to impress and disappear fast.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1 cup organic cane sugar or coconut sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup vegan chocolate chips (dairy-free)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl (large)
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 8-inch round cake pan or 9×9-inch square pan
  • Parchment paper or non-stick spray
  • Cooling rack
  • Oven

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pan with oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt until well blended.
  3. Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, mix the almond milk, oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract.
  4. Incorporate wet into dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the cake dense.
  5. Fold in the chocolate chips: Reserve a handful of chips for topping and gently fold the rest into the batter.
  6. Pour the batter: Transfer the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips evenly on top.
  7. Bake the cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  8. Cool completely: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.
  9. Serve and enjoy! Slice the cake and serve as is or with your favorite vegan frosting or ice cream.

Tips & Variations

Tip: To keep your cake extra moist, avoid over-baking and be sure to test with a toothpick near the end of baking time.

Variation: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a nutty crunch.

Flavor twist: Stir in 1 tsp cinnamon or espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving (1 slice)
Calories 280 kcal
Fat 12 g
Saturated Fat 4 g
Carbohydrates 38 g
Fiber 2 g
Sugar 20 g
Protein 3 g
Sodium 210 mg

Serving Suggestions

This cake is fantastic on its own, but for an extra special treat, try one of these serving ideas:

  • Top with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
  • Spread a layer of vegan cream cheese frosting for a rich, tangy contrast.
  • Pair with fresh berries or sliced bananas for natural sweetness and freshness.
  • Enjoy alongside a warm cup of coffee or plant-based milk latte for a cozy snack.

Conclusion

This vegan chocolate chip cake recipe is a wonderful addition to any baker’s repertoire. It proves that vegan baking can be indulgent, simple, and crowd-pleasing.

The moist texture, combined with melty chocolate chips, creates a delightful dessert that everyone can enjoy regardless of dietary restrictions.

Not only is this cake easy to prepare with accessible ingredients, but it’s also versatile enough to adapt with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this cake offers a reliable and delicious option that you’ll return to again and again.

For more plant-based baking inspiration, check out our Leche De Pantera Recipe and Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes. Also, if you enjoy experimenting with dough, don’t miss the Magic Dough Recipe for a fun twist!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cake

Description: A moist and delicious vegan chocolate chip cake perfect for any occasion. Easy to make with simple plant-based ingredients.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT35M
Total Time: PT50M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup organic cane sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup vegan chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine almond milk, oil, apple cider vinegar, vanilla, and applesauce.
  4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
  5. Fold in the vegan chocolate chips gently.
  6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Let cake cool completely before slicing and serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 40 g

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Marta K

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