18 Yummy Vegan Cake Recipe Ideas

Looking for delicious and creative Vegan Cake Recipe Ideas? You’re in for a treat! Vegan desserts have taken the culinary world by storm, proving that you don’t need dairy or eggs to create rich, moist, and utterly satisfying cakes. From indulgent chocolate layers to light and fruity delights, vegan cakes cater to every craving and occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these recipes offer endless variety in flavors, textures, and styles.

Vegan Cake Recipe Ideas

1. Vegan Chocolate Fudge Cake

Description

Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with this decadent Vegan Chocolate Fudge Cake. Rich, moist, and intensely chocolaty, this cake is perfect for birthdays, dinner parties, or a cozy treat. Topped with creamy vegan chocolate ganache, it’s a dessert everyone will adore—vegan or not!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Ganache:

• 1 cup dairy-free dark chocolate chips
• ½ cup full-fat coconut milk

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)*

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 32g
• Fiber: 3g

2. Fluffy Vanilla Bean Cake

Description

This Fluffy Vanilla Bean Cake is a light, airy, and elegant dessert infused with the fragrant richness of real vanilla beans. Perfect for weddings, birthdays, or casual gatherings, this vegan cake is a timeless classic that pairs beautifully with fresh fruits or a creamy frosting.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ¾ cups unsweetened almond milk
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• ¾ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
• Seeds scraped from 1 vanilla bean

For the Frosting (Optional):

• 1 cup vegan butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp almond milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)*

• Calories: 290
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 28g
• Fiber: 1g

*Nutritional values are approximate and based on 12 servings.

3. Moist Lemon Drizzle Cake

Description

Bright, zesty, and irresistibly moist, this vegan Lemon Drizzle Cake is a delightful treat for any occasion. The fresh lemon flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet, tangy glaze, creating a dessert that is light yet indulgent. It’s ideal for tea parties, picnics, or as a refreshing end to a meal.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Zest of 2 lemons
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Lemon Drizzle:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)*

• Calories: 260
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 25g
• Fiber: 1g

*Nutritional values are approximate and based on 12 servings.

4. Strawberry Shortcake

Description

This Vegan Strawberry Shortcake is a heavenly combination of tender, flaky shortcakes, juicy fresh strawberries, and luscious dairy-free whipped cream. It’s the perfect dessert to celebrate summer or add a touch of sweetness to any gathering. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress guests while remaining completely plant-based.

Ingredients

For the Shortcakes:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup cold vegan butter, cubed
• ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup chilled coconut cream or store-bought dairy-free whipped cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)*

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 18g
• Fiber: 2g

*Nutritional values are approximate and based on 8 servings.

5. Tropical Pineapple Coconut Cake

Description

Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this Vegan Pineapple Coconut Cake. Bursting with juicy pineapple and the creamy richness of coconut, this cake is a delightful dessert for summer parties, beach-themed gatherings, or simply indulging in a tropical escape at home.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained, reserve juice)
• ¾ cup unsweetened coconut milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup vegan cream cheese
• ½ cup vegan butter
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp coconut extract

Optional Toppings:

• Toasted coconut flakes
• Pineapple chunks

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)*

• Calories: 310
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 28g
• Fiber: 2g

*Nutritional values are approximate and based on 12 servings.

6. Blueberry Lemon Loaf

Description

Brighten your day with this Vegan Blueberry Lemon Loaf, a moist and zesty treat bursting with fresh blueberries and tangy lemon flavor. Perfect for breakfast, tea-time, or dessert, this loaf is as beautiful as it is delicious, with a light glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients

For the Loaf:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Zest of 2 lemons
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (tossed in 1 tbsp flour)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)*

• Calories: 260
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 25g
• Fiber: 1g

*Nutritional values are approximate and based on 12 servings.

7. Red Velvet Cake with Cashew Cream Frosting

Description

This Vegan Red Velvet Cake is a show-stopping dessert with its signature deep red hue and a hint of cocoa. Paired with a luscious cashew cream frosting, it’s a perfect combination of flavor and elegance, ideal for celebrations or a romantic treat.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp red food coloring (natural or vegan-friendly)

For the Cashew Cream Frosting:

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4-6 hours)
• ¼ cup coconut cream
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp almond milk (to adjust consistency)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)*

• Calories: 290
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 25g
• Fiber: 1g

*Nutritional values are approximate and based on 12 servings.

8. Matcha Green Tea Cake

Description

Delight in the earthy, slightly sweet flavors of this Vegan Matcha Green Tea Cake. This unique dessert combines the vibrant color and taste of matcha powder with a moist and fluffy cake base, topped with a creamy, lightly sweetened frosting. It’s perfect for tea lovers or anyone seeking an elegant, health-conscious treat.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tbsp matcha green tea powder
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup vegan cream cheese
• ½ cup vegan butter
• 2-3 cups powdered sugar (to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp matcha powder (optional, for color and flavor)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)*

• Calories: 270
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 25g
• Fiber: 1g

*Nutritional values are approximate and based on 12 servings.

9. Espresso Chocolate Cake

Description

This Vegan Espresso Chocolate Cake is the perfect blend of rich, deep chocolate and bold coffee flavors, making it a dream dessert for coffee lovers. The combination of espresso and chocolate creates a decadent, moist cake, ideal for any occasion where you want to impress guests with an irresistible flavor pairing.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Espresso Frosting:

• 1 cup vegan butter
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar (to taste)
• 2 tbsp instant espresso powder (dissolved in 2 tbsp hot water)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)*

• Calories: 310
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 32g
• Fiber: 3g

*Nutritional values are approximate and based on 12 servings.

10. Pumpkin Spice Cake

Description

This Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cake is a cozy, comforting dessert with the perfect balance of warm spices and the natural sweetness of pumpkin. It’s a must-try for autumn, but delicious enough to enjoy year-round. The cake is moist and full of flavor, and it pairs wonderfully with a creamy frosting for an extra indulgent treat.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ cups canned pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup vegan butter
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar (to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1 tbsp almond milk (to adjust consistency)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)*

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 28g
• Fiber: 2g

*Nutritional values are approximate and based on 12 servings.

FAQ

Are these vegan cake recipes suitable for beginners?

Yes, these recipes are beginner-friendly and include simple ingredients that are easy to find. They also come with clear instructions to ensure success, even if you’re new to baking.

Can I substitute any ingredients in these vegan cake recipes?

Absolutely! Many of the ingredients in these cakes can be substituted depending on your dietary preferences or what you have available. For example, almond milk can be replaced with oat milk, and flax eggs can replace traditional eggs in most cakes.

How can I store leftover vegan cakes?

To store leftover vegan cakes, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.

Can I make these cakes gluten-free?

Yes, many of these cakes can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check specific recipes for suggested adjustments, such as using xanthan gum or other binding agents for the best texture.