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Simple Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe

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4 from 2 reviews

Enjoy a rich and moist Simple Vegan Chocolate Cake that's perfect for any occasion. This dairy-free, egg-free dessert features a tender crumb infused with cocoa and topped with a fluffy vegan chocolate frosting. Easy to make and wonderfully decadent, it's ideal for vegan and plant-based diets.

Ingredients

Cake

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 cup avocado oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 1/4 cups almond milk or oat milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting

  • 3/4 cup vegan butter or margarine, softened (such as Earth Balance sticks)
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8” x 8” baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Create a well in the center of the dry mixture. Pour in the almond or oat milk, avocado or vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir gently until the batter is smooth and evenly mixed.
  4. Transfer and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Tap or shake the pan gently to level the batter evenly. Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
  6. Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened vegan butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Beat with a hand or stand mixer on low speed to start incorporating the powdered sugar, then increase to high speed and beat until the frosting is very fluffy and smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
  7. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, dollop the frosting on top. Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the cake surface.
  8. Add Toppings: Optionally, sprinkle the top with your choice of toppings such as sprinkles, chocolate flakes, candied citrus zest, or mini marshmallows to add extra texture and flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute almond milk with any other plant-based milk, such as soy or oat milk.
  • Avocado oil adds a mild flavor and healthy fats, but you can use any neutral vegetable oil if preferred.
  • The cake can be baked in different sized pans; adjust baking time accordingly.
  • Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
  • Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.