Best Vegan Raisen Cake Recipe for Moist and Flavorful Treats

Updated On: October 7, 2025

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked raisin cake wafting through your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan baker or just exploring plant-based desserts, this vegan raisin cake recipe will be your new favorite.

Soft, moist, and bursting with plump raisins and warm spices, it’s a treat that satisfies every sweet tooth. What makes this cake truly special is its simplicity—no hard-to-find ingredients, no complicated steps, just honest, homey goodness.

The subtle notes of cinnamon and vanilla, paired with the natural sweetness of raisins, create a nostalgic flavor that pairs perfectly with tea or coffee. Plus, it’s entirely egg-free and dairy-free, making it a healthier option for you and your loved ones.

Let’s dive in and discover how to bake the best vegan raisin cake you’ve ever tasted!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Incredibly Moist: Thanks to the combination of oil and applesauce, this cake stays tender for days.
  • Healthier Ingredients: Made with whole wheat flour and no refined sugars, it’s a cake you can feel good about eating.
  • Simple Pantry Staples: No need to hunt for vegan specialty items—everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
  • Perfectly Spiced: Warm cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg complement the raisins beautifully.
  • Foolproof for Beginners: Even novice bakers will find this recipe easy to follow and hard to mess up.
  • Versatile: Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a dollop of vegan whipped cream.
  • Great for Sharing: Its classic flavor and soft texture make it a hit at potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups (240g)
Baking powder 2 teaspoons
Baking soda 1/2 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 1/2 teaspoons
Ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Unsweetened applesauce 3/4 cup (180g)
Light brown sugar (packed) 3/4 cup (150g)
Neutral oil (like canola or sunflower) 1/2 cup (120ml)
Non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or oat) 1/2 cup (120ml)
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Pure vanilla extract 2 teaspoons
Raisins 1 1/2 cups (225g)
Optional: Chopped walnuts or pecans 1/2 cup (60g)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 medium)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk and spatula
  • 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan or 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan
  • Parchment paper (optional, for lining the pan)
  • Wire cooling rack
  • Toothpick (for doneness test)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the raisins with 2 tablespoons of flour. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix the applesauce, brown sugar, oil, non-dairy milk, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
  6. Fold in the raisins (and nuts, if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  7. Transfer the batter to your prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
  8. Bake for 33-38 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Slice and serve as desired. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

  • Tip: For extra-moist raisins, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry before adding to the batter.

  • Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrients.
  • For a festive touch, add 1/2 teaspoon allspice or ginger.
  • Want a gluten-free version? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
  • Swap raisins for dried cranberries, chopped dates, or currants for a different taste profile.
  • Top with a light lemon glaze (powdered sugar + lemon juice) for a sweet-tart finish.
  • “This cake is even better the next day as flavors meld and the texture becomes even softer.”

Nutrition Facts

Amount Per Serving 1 slice (1/12 cake)
Calories 210
Fat 6g
Saturated Fat 0.5g
Carbohydrates 38g
Sugar 19g
Fiber 2g
Protein 3g
Sodium 160mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and specific measurements.

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy a warm slice with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
  • Serve with a dollop of vegan vanilla yogurt or your favorite non-dairy ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
  • For special occasions, dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple lemon or orange glaze.
  • Pack slices in lunchboxes for a nourishing snack on the go.
  • Add a handful of your favorite nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

Conclusion

Baking a vegan raisin cake is a delightful way to bring warmth and nostalgia to your kitchen, all while embracing a plant-based lifestyle. This recipe delivers everything you could hope for in a classic raisin cake—moisture, flavor, and simplicity—without any animal products.

Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying a quiet moment with a book and a cup of tea, this cake fits every occasion. Plus, it’s easy to adapt, so you can make it uniquely yours each time.

If you’re in the mood to explore more sweet treats, don’t miss our Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe for another show-stopping vegan dessert, or try the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe for a cool and creamy pairing.

For savory inspiration, check out this cozy Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe (vegan adaptation included). Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with the joy of wholesome, homemade goodness!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Raisin Cake

Description: A moist and flavorful vegan raisin cake that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this simple, plant-based dessert with a cup of tea or as a sweet treat.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup coconut sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 3/4 cup non-dairy milk (e.g., almond milk)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup raisins

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  4. In another bowl, mix applesauce, coconut oil, non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract.
  5. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
  6. Fold in the raisins.
  7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  9. Let cool before slicing and serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 39 g

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Marta K

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