There’s something incredibly comforting about the warm aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves wafting through your kitchen, especially when paired with a moist, tender cake. This vegan spice cake recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of cozy autumn afternoons or festive holiday gatherings.
Perfectly spiced and naturally sweetened, this cake offers a plant-based alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just venturing into plant-based baking, this recipe is approachable, straightforward, and guaranteed to become a favorite.
Using simple pantry staples and wholesome ingredients, you’ll create a luscious cake that’s rich in spices and light as air. Plus, it’s free from eggs, dairy, and refined sugars, making it a healthier choice.
Pair this cake with your favorite vegan frosting or enjoy it plain with a cup of tea for an indulgent but guilt-free dessert. Ready to bake your way to spice heaven?
Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan spice cake is more than just delicious: it’s incredibly versatile and easy to make. The combination of warming spices creates a nostalgic flavor profile that reminds many of holiday celebrations, yet it’s perfect for any time of the year.
Using plant-based ingredients like flax eggs and coconut oil, this cake remains moist and tender without any animal products. It’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup and brown sugar, offering a subtle richness without overwhelming sweetness.
The recipe is designed to be foolproof, so even if you’re new to vegan baking, you’ll have success on your first try.
Plus, this cake stores beautifully, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time or sharing with friends and family. If you love experimenting with flavors, you can easily customize the spice blend or add mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
For more inspiring vegan baking ideas, check out our Vegan Beignet Recipe: Easy, Fluffy, and Delicious Treat and Vegan Pizzelle Recipe: Easy, Crispy, and Delicious Treat.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
All-purpose flour | 2 cups (250g) |
Baking soda | 1 tsp |
Baking powder | 1 tsp |
Ground cinnamon | 2 tsp |
Ground ginger | 1 tsp |
Ground nutmeg | 1/2 tsp |
Ground cloves | 1/4 tsp |
Salt | 1/2 tsp |
Brown sugar (packed) | 3/4 cup (150g) |
Maple syrup | 1/4 cup (60ml) |
Flaxseed meal (for flax eggs) | 2 tbsp |
Water (for flax eggs) | 6 tbsp |
Unsweetened applesauce | 1/2 cup (120g) |
Full-fat coconut milk | 3/4 cup (180ml) |
Vanilla extract | 1 1/2 tsp |
Coconut oil (melted) | 1/4 cup (60ml) |
Equipment
- 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan or 8×8 inch square pan
- Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
- Whisk or electric hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
- Small bowl (for flax eggs)
- Oven
Instructions
- Prepare the flax eggs: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal with 6 tablespoons water. Whisk well and set aside to thicken for at least 10 minutes. This mixture will act as your egg substitute.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your cake pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all the spices — cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisk well to ensure even distribution.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the thickened flax eggs, brown sugar, maple syrup, applesauce, coconut milk, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula or whisk, gently fold the batter until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Pour into pan and bake: Transfer the batter evenly into your prepared cake pan. Smooth the top and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.
- Optional frosting: If you like, top your cake with a vegan cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and plant-based milk.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra moist cake, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour.”
“If you prefer a nuttier flavor, add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter before baking.”
You can also experiment with the spice blend by adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice for a unique twist. For a lower sugar version, reduce the brown sugar to 1/2 cup and increase the maple syrup slightly to 1/3 cup.
If you want to turn this cake into a layered masterpiece, double the recipe and bake in two pans. Frost with your favorite vegan frosting and sprinkle with cinnamon or chopped nuts for an impressive presentation.
For other vegan dessert ideas, visit our Vegan Halloween Dessert Recipes That Will Wow Your Guests page for inspiration.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1/10 cake) |
---|---|
Calories | 210 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Saturated Fat | 5 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Sugar | 15 g |
Sodium | 220 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and measurements.
Serving Suggestions
This vegan spice cake is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. Serve it warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
For a lighter option, pair it with fresh fruit such as sliced pears, apples, or a handful of pomegranate seeds to enhance the spice notes. It also makes a fantastic companion to your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Looking for savory dishes to pair with your cake for a full meal experience? Check out our Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals or try the vibrant flavors in our Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor.
Conclusion
Baking a vegan spice cake that’s both flavorful and moist is easier than you might think. This recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients with a rich blend of spices to create a dessert that is perfect for any occasion — from cozy family gatherings to special celebrations.
Its accessibility and delicious results make it a fantastic addition to your baking repertoire, especially if you’re exploring plant-based desserts. Plus, the cake’s adaptability lets you customize it to your liking, whether that means adding nuts, adjusting sweetness, or pairing it with a favorite frosting.
Embrace the warmth and comfort this cake brings and don’t forget to share it with loved ones. For more vegan recipes that satisfy every craving, browse other favorites like our Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade or dive into hearty options such as the Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious.
Happy baking!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Spice Cake
Description: A moist and flavorful vegan spice cake perfect for any occasion. Made with warm spices and plant-based ingredients for a delicious treat.
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 baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- In a separate bowl, combine almond milk, oil, vinegar, and vanilla extract.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cake to cool completely before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 40g
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