There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a freshly baked cake wafting through the house. A vegan apple cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a hug in cake form.

With its fluffy texture and the sweet burst of apples, this cake brings a warm, homey feeling that everyone can enjoy.

Using simple, plant-based ingredients, this recipe makes it easy for anyone to whip up a delicious treat.

Forget about complicated steps and hard-to-find items—this cake is all about straightforward baking.

Plus, it’s free of eggs and dairy, which means it’s perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle or anyone looking to enjoy a healthier dessert.

This cake isn’t just about taste; it’s also about sharing moments with loved ones.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, having a cozy family gathering, or just enjoying a quiet afternoon, a slice of vegan apple cake can make any moment sweeter.

Let’s get to the good stuff and bake a cake that’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Easy Vegan Apple Cake Recipe

Ingredients

For The Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ½ cup vegetable oil (like canola or sunflower oil)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
• 3 cups of apples, peeled and diced (about 2 medium apples)

For The Frosting

• 1 cup vegan cream cheese
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, pour in all the wet ingredients: plant-based milk, apple cider vinegar, applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Stir them together until well mixed.
2. In another bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and combined.
3. Wash your apples, peel them if you like, and chop them into small pieces (about ¼-inch cubes). This helps them blend nicely into the batter. Gently fold the chopped apples into your cake batter.
4. Pour the batter into a 9×9 inch baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 55 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
5. While your cake is baking, you can prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Whisk until it’s creamy and smooth.
6. Once the cake is completely baked and cooled, spread the frosting evenly on top. Cut into slices and enjoy this moist and flavorful vegan apple cake with family and friends!

Tips For Making The Perfect Vegan Apple Cake

A vegan apple cake can be soft, moist, and full of flavor with just a few simple tips:

• Choose Sweet Apples: Use naturally sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji to add natural sweetness to the cake.
• Don’t Over-Mix the Batter: Once you add the flour, mix only until the ingredients are combined. This helps keep the cake fluffy and prevents it from becoming dense.
• Add Spices for Extra Flavor: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of allspice can enhance the apple flavor and make the cake smell amazing.
• Use a Good Egg Substitute: A mix of applesauce, flax eggs, or chia seeds can work well to replace eggs and add moisture.
• Measure Your Ingredients Carefully: Baking is precise, so use measuring cups and spoons to ensure the cake comes out perfect.

Variations For Vegan Apple Cake

Make your vegan apple cake unique by adding different ingredients or making small changes:

• Apple Walnut Cake: Add chopped walnuts for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Apple Cinnamon Raisin Cake: Mix in some raisins with cinnamon for a more traditional, comforting taste.
• Apple Carrot Cake: Add grated carrots for a healthier twist that also boosts moisture and sweetness.
• Apple Crumb Cake: Sprinkle a mix of flour, sugar, and vegan butter on top to create a delicious crumbly topping.
• Spiced Apple Cake: Go bold with spices like ginger, cloves, or cardamom for a spicy twist.

What To Serve With Vegan Apple Cake?

Pairing the cake with something tasty can make it feel even more special:

• Vegan Whipped Cream: Light and creamy, this is perfect for topping each slice.
• Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream adds a cold, creamy contrast to the warm cake.
• Coconut Yogurt: For a healthier option, serve with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt.
• Warm Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some vegan caramel sauce on top for a dessert that feels extra indulgent.

How To Store Vegan Apple Cake?

To keep your cake fresh, it’s important to store it correctly:

• At Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container on the counter for up to 2 days.
• In the Fridge: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days if you’d like it to last longer. Wrap it well or place it in a sealed container to prevent it from drying out.
• Tip: Allow the cake to cool fully before covering to avoid trapping steam, which can make it soggy.

Can Vegan Apple Cake Be Frozen?

Yes, freezing is a great way to enjoy the cake later. Here’s how:

1. Cool the Cake Completely: Make sure it’s at room temperature before freezing.
2. Slice if Needed: If you prefer to enjoy it one slice at a time, cut the cake into individual pieces.
3. Wrap and Freeze: Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. This prevents freezer burn.
4. Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw the cake at room temperature or heat it in the microwave for a few seconds.

Which Apples Are Best For Apple Cake?

Choosing the right apple can make your cake taste even better. Here’s a simple guide to picking apples that work well in cakes:

• Honeycrisp: Known for their sweet, juicy flavor, Honeycrisp apples stay crisp when baked and add a great texture to cakes.
• Gala: These are sweet and mild, making them perfect for a gentle, apple flavor without overpowering the cake.
• Fuji: Sweet and firm, Fuji apples hold their shape well and add a natural sweetness, so you might not need as much sugar in your recipe.
• Granny Smith: If you like a hint of tartness, go for Granny Smith apples. They keep their shape and add a nice balance to the sweetness of the cake.
• Golden Delicious: These apples are sweet and soft, so they blend smoothly into the cake and add a buttery flavor.

Why Is My Vegan Apple Cake Not Rising?

If your apple cake isn’t rising, it could be due to a few common reasons. Here’s a simple troubleshooting guide to help:

• Expired Baking Powder or Baking Soda: If the leavening agents (like baking powder or soda) are old, they won’t make the cake rise. Check the expiration date and replace them if they’re outdated.
• Over-Mixing the Batter: Mixing too much can knock the air out of the batter, making it dense and flat. Stir just until everything is combined.
• Too Much Moisture: Apples add moisture, but if there’s too much, it can weigh down the cake. Pat the apple pieces dry with a paper towel if they seem extra juicy.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: If the oven is too cold, the cake may not rise properly. Preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer to make sure the temperature is accurate.
• Skipping the Leavening Agent: Double-check the recipe to make sure you’ve added all ingredients, including the baking powder or baking soda.