Small Vegan Cake Recipe for Easy and Delicious Desserts

Is there anything more comforting than a homemade cake—especially when it’s small enough to bake just for yourself or share with someone special? If you’re searching for a simple, moist, and entirely vegan cake that doesn’t require a special occasion or a big gathering, you’re in the right place.

This small vegan cake recipe is perfect for those afternoons when you crave something sweet but don’t want the temptation of leftovers lingering for days. It’s also ideal for anyone who wants to experiment with plant-based baking without investing in a long list of ingredients or fancy equipment.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan baker or just starting your plant-based journey, this recipe is reliable, forgiving, and endlessly adaptable. It’s quick to whip up, bakes in under 30 minutes, and can be topped with your favorite vegan frosting or simply enjoyed as-is.

Let’s dive in and discover how easy (and delicious) a small vegan cake can be!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Portion Control: No more days of leftover cake—this small vegan cake makes just enough for 2-4 servings.
• Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and bake time, you can satisfy your sweet tooth in less than an hour.
• Simple Pantry Ingredients: No need for specialty flours or hard-to-find egg replacers—just everyday ingredients you likely already have.
• Customizable Flavor: This recipe is a blank canvas: add citrus zest, cocoa, spices, or fruit to make it your own.
• Dairy-Free & Egg-Free: 100% plant-based with no compromise on texture or taste.
• Great for Celebrations: Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because—small cakes mean you can celebrate more often!
• Minimal Waste: Small batch means fewer leftovers and less food waste.

Ingredients

Equipment

• 6-inch round cake pan (or an 8×4-inch loaf pan)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small spatula or spoon
• Cooling rack
• Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 6-inch round cake pan or line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This helps distribute the leaveners evenly.
3. In a separate bowl or large liquid measuring cup, stir together the non-dairy milk, neutral oil, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar. The vinegar will react with the baking soda to create lift.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or whisk until just combined. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are fine.
5. If using add-ins (like chocolate chips or berries), gently fold them into the batter now.
6. Transfer the batter to your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 22-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
8. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then turn out onto a cooling rack and let cool completely before frosting or serving.
9. Optional: Top with your favorite vegan frosting, dust with powdered sugar, or enjoy plain!

For the fluffiest texture, avoid overmixing the batter. Stir just until the flour disappears for a beautifully tender crumb.

Tips & Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to make this cake gluten-free. Be sure your baking powder and other ingredients are GF-certified.
• Flavor Boosters: Add 1 tsp lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist, or 2 tbsp cocoa powder for a simple chocolate cake.
• Fruit Additions: Stir in 1/4 cup blueberries, diced strawberries, or chopped apples. Coat fruit in a teaspoon of flour first to prevent sinking.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in 2 tbsp chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for texture.
• Mini Loaf Variation: Bake the batter in an 8×4-inch loaf pan for 25-30 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.
• Frosting Ideas: Try a simple vegan buttercream, chocolate ganache, or a zesty lemon glaze. Even a dollop of coconut yogurt can be a delightful topping!
• Serving for One: Halve the recipe and bake in a jumbo muffin tin or small ramekin for a perfect single-serving treat.

“Small cakes are the best way to experiment with bold flavors. Don’t be afraid to add spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or even a touch of black pepper for complexity!”

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition facts are estimates and will vary based on ingredient choices and add-ins.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic & Simple: Serve slices of the cake with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a cup of herbal tea or coffee.
• Layered Treat: Slice the cake horizontally and fill with a layer of vegan jam or whipped coconut cream for a mini layer cake.
• Fruit Forward: Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or thinly sliced peaches, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add a generous spoonful of vegan chocolate ganache or a scoop of vegan ice cream.
• Celebration Ready: Decorate with edible flowers and serve on a pretty cake stand for a special occasion.
• Picnic-Perfect: Cut into small squares and pack in your lunchbox for a sweet treat on the go.

If you enjoy this small vegan cake, you might also love my Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a fruitier twist, or explore more sweet and savory vegan ideas like Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

For a globally inspired meal before your cake, try the Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals.

Conclusion

Baking a small vegan cake at home is the ultimate expression of self-care and creativity. This approachable, adaptable recipe is your invitation to experiment with flavors, textures, and toppings—without the commitment of a full-sized cake.

Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in, a mini celebration, or just a well-deserved treat, you’ll love how effortlessly indulgent and satisfying this cake can be.

Remember, vegan baking is all about making plant-based eating joyful and accessible. With this recipe, you’ll discover that a dairy-free, egg-free cake can be just as moist, fluffy, and delicious as any traditional version.

So go ahead—preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a little slice of happiness. And if you’re looking to expand your vegan repertoire, don’t forget to browse more recipes like Vegetarian Date Cake or savory options such as Vegetable Alfredo Recipes.

Happy baking!

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