Name: Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¼ cups light brown sugar; ¾ cup cocoa powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ cup neutral oil; 1 ¼ cups oat milk (or other non-dairy milk); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¾ cup vegan butter or margarine (softened); 2 ½ cups powdered sugar; 6 tablespoons cocoa powder

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 34 reviews

If you’ve ever thought that vegan desserts couldn’t match the rich, indulgent pleasure of a traditional treat, this Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe will quickly change your mind. Bursting with deep cocoa flavor and a moist, tender crumb, this cake is a joyous celebration of plant-based baking done right. It’s wonderfully simple to prepare yet feels luxurious enough to share with friends and family, making every bite a reminder that vegan sweets can be every bit as delightful and satisfying as their dairy-filled counterparts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface holds a mix with layers: a dry light brown powder around the edges, a frothy beige liquid with bubbles and darker spots in the middle, and a black spoon partially resting inside the bowl on the right side. Around the bowl, there is a small clear glass container with a yellow-orange drop of liquid near the bottom right, and two clear measuring cups with transparent liquid at the left side of the bowl. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe calls for staple pantry items that come together to create a decadent, moist cake with a luscious frosting. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from the cocoa powder that infuses rich chocolate flavor, to the oat milk which adds creaminess without dairy. The balance of leaveners ensures a perfectly risen, tender texture that melts in your mouth.

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The base of your cake’s structure, providing the perfect canvas for all other flavors.
1 ¼ cups light brown sugar: Adds sweetness along with a subtle hint of caramel that deepens the flavor.
¾ cup cocoa powder: For that unmistakable chocolate intensity, choose a good-quality unsweetened cocoa.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise for a fluffy texture.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic elements to create extra lift and tenderness.
½ cup neutral oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without overpowering the other flavors.
1 ¼ cups oat milk (or other non-dairy milk): Provides moisture and a subtle creaminess without dairy.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the chocolate flavor.
¾ cup vegan butter or margarine (softened): Essential for creating a rich, smooth frosting.
2 ½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a perfect spreadable texture.
6 tablespoons cocoa powder: Boosts the chocolate intensity in the frosting for that extra indulgence.

How to Make Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Tin and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing your pan is key for an easy release later — grease an 8-inch by 8-inch square baking tin or line it thoroughly with parchment paper. This initial step sets the foundation for your perfect cake.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Making sure these dry ingredients are evenly combined before introducing your wet ingredients will help the cake rise uniformly and develop its tender crumb.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Create a well in the center of your dry mix, then pour in the oat milk, neutral oil, and vanilla extract. Stir everything gently until you achieve a smooth batter — be careful not to overmix to avoid a dense texture. This blend is where magic happens: moisture meets flavor to give you that luscious cake base.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared baking tin and gently shake it to level the surface. Pop it in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The cake is done when a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Don’t rush this — this step ensures your cake is perfectly baked, moist yet set.

Step 5: Cool Before Frosting

Allow the cake to cool in the tin for at least 10 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here guarantees your frosting won’t melt when applied, and it allows the cake to firm up just right for slicing and serving.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

Combine the vegan butter, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder in a bowl. Using a hand mixer on low speed, slowly incorporate the powdered sugar to avoid a sugar cloud. Increase speed and beat for 3 to 5 minutes until the frosting turns fluffy and smooth — this is your silky, chocolatey crowning glory.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Dollop your luscious frosting on the cooled cake and spread it evenly with a spatula. For that extra touch of whimsy and fun, sprinkle on toppings like colorful sprinkles, chocolate flakes, candied citrus zest, or even mini vegan marshmallows. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of cake and creamy frosting.

How to Serve Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe

Four square pieces of chocolate cake are shown, each with two layers: a dark brown moist cake base topped with a thick layer of light brown chocolate frosting. Three pieces on a light wooden board are decorated with thin chocolate shavings, and one piece on a white plate with a faint yellow rim is topped with colorful round sprinkles. A small brown bowl with some chocolate frosting inside and a black spatula rests beside a black wire cooling rack holding another frosted cake piece. Scattered chocolate shavings and a black peeler are also on the board, all set against a white marbled surface with a dark cloth featuring light circles nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While simple frosting is divine on its own, garnishing your Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe amps up the visual appeal and flavor layers. Fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries add a lovely tart contrast, while a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted vegan chocolate sauce will delight your guests’ eyes and taste buds.

Side Dishes

Pair this cake with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience. A cup of robust coffee or a fragrant cup of chai complement the chocolate’s richness beautifully, making your dessert feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special occasion, consider serving the cake in individual jars or layered dessert cups with frosting and fresh fruits. Cutting the cake into fun shapes with cookie cutters also makes serving simple and festive, especially for kids or themed gatherings. The Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe is versatile and shines in any presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, keep your cake covered tightly in an airtight container at room temperature if serving within a day or two. For longer freshness, storing it in the fridge is best, but bring it back to room temperature before serving to enjoy the soft texture and full flavors.

Freezing

This cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. For best results, freeze undecorated cake layers and add frosting after thawing. The cake will keep well for up to two months in the freezer.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, allow it to reach room temperature if frozen, then microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds or gently warm in a low oven. Warmed vegan chocolate cake is incredibly comforting and particularly delicious with a scoop of cold vegan ice cream.

FAQs

Can I use other non-dairy milks in this Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Oat milk works wonderfully for its mild flavor and creaminess, but almond, soy, or cashew milk are also great choices that won’t compromise the cake’s texture or taste.

Is the frosting easy to make without a mixer?

While a mixer helps achieve a smooth, fluffy frosting faster, you can hand stir vigorously with a whisk or spoon. Just make sure your vegan butter is softened well to make the process easier and the frosting smooth.

Can I substitute coconut oil for the neutral oil?

You can, but be mindful that coconut oil can add a slight coconut flavor. If you don’t mind that, it’s a perfectly fine substitute that also keeps the cake moist.

How long does the Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe keep fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the cake stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days at room temperature and up to a week refrigerated. Beyond that, freezing is your best option to maintain flavor and texture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make this Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe gluten-free, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. You might need to adjust liquid levels slightly, but it’s definitely doable for a delicious gluten-free treat.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe is more than just a tasty dessert; it’s a celebration of how plant-based baking can be utterly indulgent and incredibly simple. Whether you’re vegan or simply curious about new recipes, this cake promises joy in every bite. So don’t wait — gather the ingredients, bake it up, and share a slice of this chocolatey delight with those you love.