If you’re craving a cozy, warmly spiced dessert that’s entirely plant-based, look no further. This vegan spice cake is a delightful treat, combining the rich flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves into a moist and tender cake. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet moment, this cake is sure to impress.
1. What Is Vegan Spice Cake?
Vegan spice cake is a plant-based twist on the classic spice cake, traditionally made with eggs and dairy. By substituting these with vegan-friendly ingredients like applesauce, plant-based milk, and vegan butter, we retain the cake’s moist texture and rich flavor without any animal products. The result is a deliciously spiced dessert that’s both ethical and indulgent.
DIY Vegan Spice Cake Recipe: Moist, Flavorful, and Perfect for Every Occasion
Course: vegan cake12
slices15
minutes35
minutes280
kcalDiscover the best vegan spice cake recipe—moist, warmly spiced, and easy to make. Perfect with or without frosting. Includes step-by-step guide and nutritional info!
Ingredients
2½ cups of all-purpose flour
1¼ cups of organic brown sugar
1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
1½ teaspoons of ground ginger
½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon of ground cloves
1 teaspoon of baking soda
½ teaspoon of salt
1 cup of unsweetened applesauce
1 cup of plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk)
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
½ cup of melted vegan butter or neutral oil (like sunflower or canola)
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Optional: ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans
Optional: ½ cup of raisins or chopped dates
- For the optional vegan cream cheese frosting (if you’d like to frost the cake):
¾ cup of vegan cream cheese
½ cup of vegan butter, softened
2 cups of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Make the vegan buttermilk by mixing the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until slightly curdled.
- Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them well to combine.
- Combine the wet ingredients in a separate bowl: applesauce, melted vegan butter or oil, vanilla extract, and the vegan buttermilk you prepared earlier.
- Add wet to dry: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
- Add optional extras: If using, fold in chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the batter in the prepared pan for 30 to 35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional frosting: If frosting, mix the vegan cream cheese, softened vegan butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a bowl. Beat until smooth, then spread over the cooled cake.
Nutritional Information (Per 100g Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 2.8 g |
| Total Fat | 10.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 43.5 g |
| Sugars | 22.0 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
| Calcium | 35 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
Note: These values are approximate and may vary slightly depending on specific brands and optional ingredients used.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deep, Warming Flavors: A harmonious blend of spices creates a comforting taste that’s perfect year-round.
- Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to ingredients like applesauce and vegan buttermilk, every bite is soft and satisfying.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or topped with vegan cream cheese frosting.
- Diet-Friendly: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets without compromising on taste or texture.
3. Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Vegan Spice Cake
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1¼ cups organic brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1½ teaspoons ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup plant-based milk (e.g., almond, soy, oat)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup melted vegan butter or neutral oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)
- ½ cup raisins or chopped dates
- For the Frosting (Optional):
- ¾ cup vegan cream cheese
- ½ cup vegan butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4. How to Make Vegan Spice Cake – Step by Step
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare Vegan Buttermilk: In a small bowl, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to curdle.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the applesauce, melted vegan butter or oil, vanilla extract, and the prepared vegan buttermilk.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Optional Ingredients: Fold in any nuts or dried fruits if using.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost (Optional): Once cooled, spread the vegan cream cheese frosting over the top of the cake.
5. The Secret to Perfect Vegan Spice Cake
The key to a moist and flavorful vegan spice cake lies in the balance of ingredients. Using applesauce not only adds moisture but also imparts a subtle sweetness that complements the spices. The combination of plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar creates a vegan buttermilk, which helps tenderize the crumb and adds a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
6. Choosing the Best Plant-Based Milk for Your Cake
While any plant-based milk can be used, unsweetened varieties are preferred to control the cake’s sweetness. Almond milk offers a light texture, soy milk provides a bit more protein and structure, and oat milk contributes a naturally sweet flavor. Choose based on your taste preference and dietary needs.
7. How to Thicken Vegan Frosting for That Perfect Texture
Achieving the right consistency in vegan frosting can be a challenge. If your frosting is too runny, gradually add more powdered sugar until it thickens. Conversely, if it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of plant-based milk at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Chilling the frosting for 15-30 minutes before spreading can also help it set properly.
9. Tips for Making Gluten-Free Vegan Spice Cake
Transforming this vegan spice cake into a gluten-free delight is straightforward with a few thoughtful substitutions. Replace the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum, which helps mimic the structure provided by gluten. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur offer reliable options. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients, such as baking powder and spices, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. Keep in mind that gluten-free batters may have a slightly different texture; if the batter appears too thick, add a tablespoon of plant-based milk at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
10. How to Store & Reheat Vegan Spice Cake
Proper storage is key to maintaining the cake’s moistness and flavor.
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: If you’ve added frosting, especially cream cheese-based, it’s best to refrigerate the cake. Place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out, and consume within 5 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to restore freshness.
11. Serving Suggestions – What Goes Well with Vegan Spice Cake?
This versatile cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments:
- Beverages: Enjoy with a hot cup of chai tea, coffee, or a glass of almond milk.
- Toppings: Top with vegan whipped cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Fruit Compote: Serve alongside a warm apple or pear compote to enhance the spiced flavors.
- Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?
A: Yes, coconut sugar or maple syrup can be used as alternatives. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners may slightly alter the cake’s texture.
Q: Is it possible to make this cake oil-free?
A: Absolutely. You can substitute the oil with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana for a healthier, oil-free version.
Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Yes, this cake can be baked a day or two ahead. Store it covered at room temperature or refrigerated if frosted.
Q: What can I use instead of applesauce?
A: Mashed bananas or pumpkin puree are excellent substitutes for applesauce, offering similar moisture and binding properties.
Q: Can I bake this cake in different pan sizes?
A: Certainly. Adjust baking times accordingly: for cupcakes, bake for 18-22 minutes; for a bundt pan, bake for 40-50 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
This vegan spice cake is a delightful blend of warm spices and moist texture, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Its adaptability to various dietary needs ensures that everyone can enjoy a slice. Happy baking!
