Vegan Vanilla Round Cake

This moist, fluffy, and perfectly sweet vegan vanilla round cake is a must-try for birthdays, weddings, or any special occasion! Made with simple ingredients, it's dairy-free, egg-free, and can be made gluten-free. Topped with a rich vegan cream cheese frosting, this cake is easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls – For preparing the cake batter and frosting.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient portions.
• Electric hand mixer or whisk – For smooth batter and creamy frosting.
• Three 6-inch, two 8-inch, or one 10-inch round cake pan(s) – For baking the cake.
• Non-stick spray and parchment paper – To prevent sticking.
• Wire rack – For cooling the cake before frosting.

Ingredients

Vegan Vanilla Cake Batter:

• 1 ¼ cup unsweetened oat or almond milk (regular milk can be used if not vegan)
• ½ cup melted vegan butter (or regular butter if not vegan)
• 1 ¼ cup cane sugar (for natural sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda (helps the cake rise)
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder (creates a light, fluffy texture)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for rich vanilla flavor)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (*regular or gluten-free 1:1 blend, such as King Arthur Measure for Measure)

Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 3 cups powdered sugar (for a smooth, sweet frosting)
• 4 tablespoons softened vegan butter (or regular butter if not vegan)
• 4 ounces dairy-free cream cheese (or regular cream cheese if not vegan)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 6-inch or two 8-inch round cake pans with non-stick spray or vegan butter.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oat or almond milk, melted butter, cane sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Gradually add the flour, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

2. Bake the Cakes

• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown and fully risen. Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, they’re done.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 5-10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

• While the cakes cool, use an electric hand mixer to beat together the powdered sugar, softened vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese until smooth.
• Cover and refrigerate the frosting until ready to use.

4. Assemble and Frost the Cake

• Once completely cooled, spread frosting on the top of one cake layer, stack the second cake on top, and frost the entire cake evenly.
• Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy!

Cake Frosting Tips

• Level the Cakes – If needed, trim the tops of the cake layers to create a flat surface.
• Chill the Layers – For easier handling, freeze the cake layers for 20–30 minutes before frosting.
• Apply a Crumb Coat – Spread a thin layer of frosting over the first layer, stack the next cake on top, and repeat. Lightly coat the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Chill for 15 minutes.
• Final Frosting Layer – Use a spatula to evenly spread a thicker layer of frosting over the cake. Smooth it out or create decorative swirls.
• Decorate & Serve – Add sprinkles, fruit, or piping as desired. Slice and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions