When I first shifted to a plant-based lifestyle, I thought I’d have to say goodbye to my beloved cakes. I mean, how can you bake a cake without eggs, dairy, or butter, right? But then I discovered a whole world of delicious vegan cake recipes that not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also leave the taste buds dancing.
This journey turned into an adventure, and countless trials led me to a collection of must-try vegan cakes that have become staples in my kitchen.
The recipes I’m sharing today stem from my passion for baking, along with a sprinkle of experimentation (and a few happy accidents!). Each of these cakes has a unique flavor profile and texture that will surprise you, and what’s even better—many are super easy to whip up, even for beginners. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends, treating yourself on a quiet afternoon, or impressing a vegan skeptic, these cakes will undoubtedly create smiles all around!
Get ready, because I’m beyond excited to share 21 of my favorite vegan cake recipes. They’ll not only fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas but also chart you on a sweet path to delightful plant-based desserts. Let’s dive in!
1. Vegan Yogurt Cake
First up is the Vegan Yogurt Cake from Cakes Hungry. This cake is such a breath of fresh air! It manages to be incredibly light and fluffy, thanks to the yogurt that keeps it moist—I’m obsessed with its delightful texture.
Perfect for a brunch or just a cozy afternoon snack, this cake’s subtle sweetness allows you to pair it with various toppings, like fresh fruits or a drizzle of your favorite syrup.
What’s great is that it doesn’t require any fancy equipment. You can blend it all by hand, which makes it a fun project anytime you need some self-care. Don’t forget, a dusting of powdered sugar on top transforms it into a little masterpiece!
2. Vegan Strawberry Lemon Cake
Next on my list is the tantalizing Vegan Strawberry Lemon Cake, which you can find over at Cakes Hungry. Imagine biting into a piece of cake that bursts with citrusy zest combined with sweet strawberries—it’s pure joy in every slice! The bright flavors make it perfect for those sunny days when you crave something refreshing.
What makes this cake even more special is how effortlessly versatile it is. You can serve it as is or layer it with vegan cream, adding an indulgent touch. Trust me; this one will have you daydreaming about your next slice!
3. Vegan Brownie in a Mug
If you’re looking for a quick treat, the Vegan Brownie in a Mug from Cakes Hungry is a lifesaver. This single-serving recipe is perfect when those chocolate cravings hit and you don’t want to bake an entire cake. Just mix the ingredients in a mug, pop it into the microwave, and voilà—gooey chocolate happiness in just a couple of minutes!
It’s so satisfying to enjoy a warm brownie on a chilly evening. My tip? Experiment by adding a splash of vanilla extract or your favorite nuts for an elevated experience.
You’ll fall in love with how easy and delicious this dessert is!
4. Vegan Carrot Cake
Next is the delightful Vegan Carrot Cake from Olive Magazine. This classic cake is a delicious blend of spices, making it a cozy treat any time of the year. The grated carrots add moisture and sweetness, and you’d never know it’s vegan when you taste it.
I particularly love how this cake holds up well, making it perfect for sharing. Pair it with a vegan cream cheese frosting for an irresistible combination that’s truly comforting. It’s a must-have for those cozy days when you need a little pick-me-up!
5. Vegan Vanilla Cheesecake
You simply can’t go wrong with a Vegan Vanilla Cheesecake from Olive Magazine. This cheesecake is creamy, rich, and everything a cheesecake should be, without any dairy! Made with cashews and a touch of coconut milk, its velvety texture will leave your taste buds singing.
This cheesecake can easily be adapted for any fruit topping you fancy. I love serving it with homemade berry compote for an extra burst of flavor. Trust me—one slice won’t be enough; you’ll want to savor every bite!
6. Vegan Chocolate Orange Cake
Next up is a delightful twist on a classic with the Vegan Chocolate Orange Cake, found at BBC Good Food. The zesty orange zest and rich chocolate create a beautiful harmony that’s both unique and utterly delicious. It’s perfect for impressing guests with its elegant flavor combination!
The texture? Oh-so-moist and decadent, I can’t resist making this one whenever I can. A sprinkle of cocoa powder on top adds a lovely aesthetic touch.
You’ll definitely want to try this cake for your next dinner gathering!
7. Chocolate Avocado Cake
If you’re looking for a nutritious indulgence, check out the Chocolate Avocado Cake from BBC Good Food. Using avocados in desserts isn’t just a trend—it’s a game changer! You’ll get a rich, fudgy chocolate cake that’s still healthy, which is my kind of indulgence.
The best part? It’s absolutely guilt-free and packed with healthy fats. I recommend serving it with a side of fresh berries or even a scoop of coconut whipped cream for a fancy touch.
You’ll absolutely love this unexpected hero in the dessert world!
8. Vegan Chocolate Cheesecake
Talking about decadence, the Vegan Chocolate Cheesecake from Olive Magazine is a true winner. Silky, chocolatey goodness awaits you with every slice, and the fact that it’s vegan makes it even better!
The texture is rich and creamy, thanks to the cashews, while the chocolate brings a heavenly depth of flavor. It’s the kind of dessert that hooks even the most skeptical of eaters—everyone will be coming back for seconds!
9. Vegan Lemon Cake
Brighten your day with a slice of Vegan Lemon Cake from BBC Good Food. This cake has a refreshing zesty flavor that livens up any gathering. It’s light, fluffy, and sooo satisfying, especially when topped with a lemon glaze that just screams sunshine!
Each bite feels like a sweet escape, and it pairs wonderfully with your favorite afternoon tea. When I serve this to guests, they are often surprised to find it vegan! It’s a true testament to how delicious plant-based can be!
10. Vegan Banana Bread
You can’t have a vegan cake list without Vegan Banana Bread from Olive Magazine. It’s a classic and a personal favorite of mine. Each loaf is bursting with banana flavor and a hint of cinnamon spice.
Plus, it’s the perfect way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.
The moist texture and sweet aroma make this banana bread a comforting treat any time of day. I like to slice it up and have it for breakfast or as a delightful snack. You’ll find that it disappears quickly!
11. Vegan Courgette Cake
The Vegan Courgette Cake from BBC Good Food is truly a delightful surprise! Adding courgette (zucchini) to a cake may sound unusual, but it works—trust me! It keeps the cake incredibly moist and provides a subtle texture that’s simply lovely.
This cake can be enjoyed plain or frosted with a light glaze, making it perfect for relaxing afternoons or Sunday gatherings. I love how it offers a unique twist to traditional flavors, and it’s a great conversation starter, too!
12. Vegan Banana Bread 2
Speaking of bananas, I’d like to introduce another Vegan Banana Bread, but this one comes from Rainbow Plant Life. It’s a one-bowl wonder, which makes it super easy to whip up, and the flavor is absolutely unbeatable!
I love how this version has the perfect balance of sweetness and moistness, and the best part? You can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of flaxseed for an extra health boost. You’ll find yourself making this one repeatedly, trust me!
13. Vegan Ginger Loaf Cake
Get cozy with the Vegan Ginger Loaf Cake from BBC Good Food. This cake embodies the warm, spicy flavors of ginger and cinnamon, making it the perfect companion for a cup of tea. It’s the epitome of comfort food, and I’m so happy to have it in my vegan repertoire!
Baking it fills the kitchen with the most comforting aroma—it’s irresistible! A drizzle of maple syrup on top elevates the flavor even further. You won’t be able to resist having another slice!
14. Vegan Victoria Sponge Cake
You can’t go wrong with a classic, and the Vegan Victoria Sponge Cake from Domestic Gothess is no exception. This cake is rich, fluffy, and adorned with fresh fruit, making it a delightful treat any time of year.
The light sponge layers paired with a generous helping of vegan cream and jam create a dreamy texture that’s hard to resist. It’s perfect for any occasion, or just to satisfy your sweet cravings. I’ve served it at gatherings, and it’s always a hit!
15. Vegan Chocolate Cake
Ah, the Vegan Chocolate Cake from Chocolate Covered Katie has earned its place in my heart! This cake is super moist and rich, and it’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Plus, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require any scavenger hunts for ingredients.
Pair it with your favorite vegan frosting, and you’re in for a delicious treat. I love serving this cake to friends, and it often surprises them when they learn it’s vegan. Get ready for a slice of heaven!
16. Vegan Chocolate Yule Log
For those special moments, the Vegan Chocolate Yule Log from BBC Good Food truly impresses. This showstopper not only looks stunning on the table but tastes divine, too. It’s rich yet light, and the chocolate flavor is out of this world!
Baking this cake comes with a sense of magic—once it’s rolled up and decorated, it’s a masterpiece. I love serving it around cozy gatherings with family or friends. You’ll want to savor every bite!
17. Easy Vegan Strawberry Cake
The Easy Vegan Strawberry Cake from Minimalist Baker is perfect for when you want something simple yet packed with flavor. Fresh strawberries add a burst of juiciness to this cake, making it light and refreshing.
It’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require much fuss, perfect for when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. If you’re serving this one, make sure to include a dollop of coconut whipped cream for that added touch!
18. Vegan Mug Cake
When you’re in the mood for something quick, the Vegan Mug Cake from BBC Good Food is a wonderful solution. This delightful cake can be made in just a few minutes, and it’s perfect for those late-night cravings when I don’t want to bake a whole cake.
It’s so satisfying to see it rise in the microwave, and you can customize the flavors based on your cravings! I love tossing in chocolate chips or nuts for a little something extra. You’ll be amazed by how easy it is to whip up a dessert whenever you need.
19. Vegan Carrot Cake 2
Another wonderful version of a Vegan Carrot Cake comes from Chocolate Covered Katie. This recipe feels like home; it’s bursting with spices, and the carrots add moisture and richness without any dairy.
The texture is perfectly fluffy, making each bite irresistible. I love making this carrot cake for gatherings—it’s a crowd favorite! You’ll cherish every morsel and appreciate how easy it is to throw together.
20. 1-Bowl Vegan Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake
If you need a gluten-free option, the 1-Bowl Vegan Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake from Minimalist Baker is a star! This cake is light, fluffy, and surprisingly indulgent without the gluten guilt.
The beauty of this cake is its simplicity; just mix everything in one bowl and bake! It’s perfect for family gatherings, as there’s something about vanilla that everyone loves. You could whip up a simple vegan frosting to go along with it, but trust me—it shines even without the glaze!
21. Vegan Sticky Toffee Pudding
Finally, let’s indulge in something truly decadent with Vegan Sticky Toffee Pudding from BBC Good Food. This dessert oozes richness and warmth—perfect for those cooler evenings when you want to curl up with something sweet.
The combination of dates and warm spices makes it comforting and soul-satisfying. Topped with a vegan toffee sauce that’s simply divine, this pudding is bound to be a showstopper at any dinner table. You definitely won’t want to miss out on this one!
Conclusion
In wrapping up this list of 21 vegan cake recipes that I absolutely love, I hope you feel inspired to dive into the wonderful world of plant-based baking. Each recipe offers its own unique twist, and there’s truly something for every occasion and taste.
If I had to choose a personal favorite, it would definitely be the Vegan Carrot Cake—it’s just so comforting and delicious! I encourage you to try these recipes and share your experiences with me. Which one are you excited to bake first?
Let’s chat in the comments!
