Best Vegan Spice Cake Recipe for Moist, Flavorful Treats

Looking for a cozy, aromatic dessert that’s completely plant-based and bursting with warm spices? You’ve come to the right place!

This best vegan spice cake recipe is an absolute winner for anyone craving a moist, flavorful cake that’s free from eggs, dairy, and any animal products. Perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply treating yourself, this cake combines classic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with the subtle sweetness of brown sugar and molasses for a deep, rich flavor.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just dipping your toes into plant-based baking, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a tender, fluffy cake every time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed plain, frosted, or topped with your favorite nuts or fruits.

Dive in and discover how simple and satisfying vegan baking can be!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan spice cake is a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The blend of warming spices creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, making every bite feel like a comforting hug.

The use of common pantry staples like applesauce, plant-based milk, and oil makes it accessible and easy to whip up anytime. Plus, the cake stays moist for days, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.

Whether you’re baking for vegans or non-vegans, this cake will impress with its rich taste and delightful crumb. It’s also free from refined sugars if you opt for coconut sugar, making it a slightly healthier indulgence.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup organic brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 3/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, or coconut)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil (such as canola or melted coconut oil)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp molasses (optional for depth of flavor)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (at least two)
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch round cake pan or 8×8 inch square pan
• Parchment paper (optional, for lining pan)
• Cooling rack
• Toothpick or cake tester

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pan and optionally line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisk these together thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients: applesauce, plant-based milk, oil, vanilla extract, and molasses (if using). Stir until smooth and combined.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Using a spatula or whisk, gently fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with your spatula.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Ovens vary, so start checking around 33 minutes.
7. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing or frosting.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra moist cake, swap half the applesauce for pumpkin puree. It adds richness and enhances the spice flavors beautifully.”

• Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a safe alternative.
• Frosting ideas: Try a vegan cream cheese frosting or a simple powdered sugar glaze to complement the spices.
• Add-ins: Toss in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins for texture and extra flavor.
• Sweetener swaps: Coconut sugar or maple syrup can replace brown sugar and molasses, but adjust liquids slightly if using syrup.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan spice cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea or your favorite plant-based latte. For an indulgent treat, serve slices with a dollop of coconut whipped cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream.

It also makes a fantastic base for a layered cake with vegan frosting or fruit preserves. Consider topping it with chopped pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.

Looking for more delicious desserts to accompany your cake? Check out the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe or the decadent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe for inspiration.

Conclusion

With its warm blend of spices and moist, tender crumb, this vegan spice cake is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. It’s a comforting, flavorful dessert that everyone can enjoy — whether you follow a vegan lifestyle or simply appreciate great taste.

The best part is how easy it is to prepare, using simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with the add-ins and frostings to make it your own. And if you love exploring plant-based recipes, be sure to try our other favorites like the Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe for a savory meal option.

Happy baking and enjoy every spiced bite!

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