{"id":2078886,"date":"2024-11-12T18:38:33","date_gmt":"2025-01-31T14:21:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/?post_type=recipe&#038;p=2078886"},"modified":"2025-01-31T08:21:55","modified_gmt":"2025-01-31T14:21:55","slug":"vegan-chocolate-cake","status":"publish","type":"recipe","link":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/vegan-chocolate-cake\/","title":{"rendered":"Vegan Chocolate Cake"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>With a few swaps, we\u2019ve turned a layered chocolate cake recipe into a just-as-glorious plant-based version.\u202f This vegan chocolate cake has two deeply chocolaty, tender layers of cake assembled with an ultra-fluffy milk chocolate frosting that is spreadable, pipeable, and so unctuously rich and delicious that you may want a glass of nondairy milk nearby.<\/p>\n<p>We use a few secret ingredients to make sure this vegan chocolate cake recipe is every bit as tasty as our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/sandy-s-chocolate-cake\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/sandy-s-chocolate-cake\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">best chocolate cake<\/a>. So, grab your favorite vegan butter from the store and let\u2019s get started!<\/p>\n<h2>Ingredients for Vegan Chocolate Cake<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Nondairy milk:<\/strong> Use your favorite <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/non-dairy-milk-alternatives\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/non-dairy-milk-alternatives\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">nondairy milk alternative<\/a> here. Oat, almond, cashew, hazelnut or coconut milk would all work just fine.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Apple cider vinegar:<\/strong> The ACV is mixed with the nondairy milk to get that touch of tang we\u2019d normally get from buttermilk.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Canola oil:<\/strong> A neutral-tasting oil, like canola oil, adds moisture to the cake without adding an oily flavor.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Sugar:<\/strong> To keep this chocolate cake veg, avoid buying refined white sugar since it\u2019s bleached with animal bone char. We recommend cane sugar, as it\u2019s one of the most widely available vegan sugars.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Applesauce:<\/strong> Along with the oil, applesauce acts as a replacement for butter and eggs by adding moisture and tenderness. And, no, you can\u2019t taste the applesauce.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Vanilla extract:<\/strong> Feel free to use vanilla extract or vanilla paste in this recipe for chocolate vegan cake.<\/li>\n<li><strong>All-purpose flour:<\/strong> All-purpose flour yields the most tender cake layers. Be sure you know <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-measure-flour-the-right-way\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-measure-flour-the-right-way\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">how to measure flour the right way<\/a> so you\u2019re not adding too much and baking dense cake layers.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Baking cocoa:<\/strong> Chocolate is the main ingredient in this cake, so it only makes sense to splurge on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/best-cocoa-powder\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/best-cocoa-powder\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">best cocoa powder<\/a> for a high-quality outcome.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Instant coffee granules:<\/strong> The best chocolate cake recipes all have the same secret ingredient: coffee. That\u2019s right! Coffee deepens the taste of the chocolate without imparting any buzzy coffee notes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Leavening agents:<\/strong> We want our cake to rise nice and tall, so we use both baking soda and baking powder in this vegan chocolate cake recipe.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Frosting:<\/strong> To make the frosting, you\u2019ll need <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/vegan-butter\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/vegan-butter\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">vegan butter<\/a>, vanilla, more cocoa powder, confectioners\u2019 sugar and more nondairy milk. It all whips up beautifully.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Directions<\/h2>\n<h3>Step 1: Create the \u201cbuttermilk\u201d<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2110471\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_01.jpg\" alt=\"Vegan Chocolate Cake shot on a blue surface. Round cake pans greased and lined with parchment paper;\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Preheat the oven to 350\u00b0F. Line the bottoms of two greased 9-inch round baking pans with parchment, then grease the parchment.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2110472\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_02.jpg\" alt=\"Unsweetened non-dairy milk mixed with apple cider vinegar.\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>In a liquid measuring cup, stir together the nondairy milk and the apple cider vinegar. Set this mixture aside.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 2: Make the batter<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2110473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_03.jpg\" alt=\"Wet ingredients beaten in a large mixing bowl.\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the canola oil, sugar, applesauce and vanilla extract until well blended.<\/p>\n<p>In another large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking cocoa, instant coffee if desired, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the applesauce mixture, alternating with the milk\/vinegar mixture. Beat until the cake batter is nice and smooth.<\/p>\n<p><em>Editor\u2019s Tip:<\/em> Try not to overbeat the cake batter or your cake can come out tough and dense.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 3: Bake the cakes<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2110474\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_04.jpg\" alt=\"Vegan chocolate cake batter poured into greased round cake pans.\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Pop the cakes into the oven and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes.<\/p>\n<p>Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes. Remove the cakes from the pans and place the cakes on wire racks. Remove the parchment from the cakes and let the cakes cool completely to room temperature.<\/p>\n<p><em>Editor\u2019s Tip:<\/em> Once cool, feel free to cut off any domes on the cake layers so your cakes can stack and sit nicely once assembled. The best way to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-level-a-cake-without-a-leveler\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-level-a-cake-without-a-leveler\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">level a cake without a cake leveler<\/a> is with a serrated knife and a cake turner.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 4: Whip up the frosting<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2110475\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_05.jpg\" alt=\"Vegan chocolate frosting whipped in a large bowl.\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Sift the confectioners&#8217; sugar and cocoa together to remove any tight clumps. In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the vegan butter and vanilla extract until blended. Beat in the confectioners&#8217; sugar mixture alternately with the nondairy milk to reach your desired frosting consistency.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 5: Frost the cake<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2110476\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_06.jpg\" alt=\"Round vegan cake on a serving platter with vegan chocolate frosting on top.\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Using a mini offset spatula, butter knife or the back of a spoon, spread the frosting on top of one of the cakes, then stack the next layer on top and make sure they line up as perfectly as you can get them. Then, spread additional frosting over the top and sides of cake.<\/p>\n<p><em>Editor\u2019s Tip:<\/em>\u00a0If you\u2019re new to frosting cakes, check out our guide on\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-frost-a-cake-easy-way\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-frost-a-cake-easy-way\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">how to frost a cake<\/a>\u00a0for more fleshed-out directions with tips and visuals.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2110477\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_07.jpg\" alt=\"Vegan cake frosted with chocolate vegan frosting.\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Voila! Your vegan chocolate cake is ready to serve. If you\u2019re nervous about making the first cut, here\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-cut-a-round-cake-like-a-pro\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-cut-a-round-cake-like-a-pro\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">how to cut a round cake like a pro<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2110478\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_08.jpg\" alt=\"Vegan chocolate cake sliced and served on blue plates.\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Recipe Variations<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Add a filling:<\/strong> Instead of filling the entire cake with frosting, pipe a frosting ring on the top perimeter of the cake and fill it with vegan-friendly jam, fresh fruit, vegan ganache or vegan chocolate-hazelnut spread. The frosting ring prevents the filling from oozing out the sides of the cake.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Finish with plant-based decorations:<\/strong> I love arranging edible flowers on my cakes. Strawberries, raspberries or cherries also look nice against the chocolate hue. Lots of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/easy-cake-decorating-ideas\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/easy-cake-decorating-ideas\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">easy cake decorating ideas<\/a> can be suited for a plant-based diet.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>How to Store Vegan Chocolate Cake<\/h2>\n<p>Place your vegan chocolate cake in a cake dome or in an airtight container and stash it in the fridge. The cake needs to be stored in some type of container because its porous nature is prone to absorbing nearby smells, especially any lingering funky fridge smells. The cake can be refrigerated for up to four days.<\/p>\n<h3>Can you freeze vegan chocolate cake?<\/h3>\n<p>Absolutely! Place your vegan chocolate cake uncovered in the freezer until the frosting is frozen, 30 to 60 minutes. Then, wrap the cake tightly in a few layers of storage wrap. Pop it back in the freezer where it can last up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before removing the storage wrap and enjoying it again.<\/p>\n<h2>Vegan Chocolate Cake Tips<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2110479\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_09.jpg\" alt=\"Vegan chocolate cake sliced and served on blue plates.\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Can I bake these into cupcakes?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes, you can bake the cake batter into cupcakes, or you can just follow our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/vegan-chocolate-cupcakes\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/vegan-chocolate-cupcakes\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">vegan chocolate cupcakes<\/a> recipe. Line two muffin tins with cupcake liners and fill each one with cake batter until it&#8217;s half full. Bake the cupcakes in a 350\u00b0 oven until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 15 to 20 minutes. Let the cupcakes cool completely to room temperature before decorating with the frosting.<\/p>\n<h3>What other pans can I use to bake this vegan chocolate cake?<\/h3>\n<p>According to our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/baking-pan-conversions\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/baking-pan-conversions\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">baking pan conversions<\/a> guide, you can bake the cakes in three 6-inch round cake pans or two 8-inch square pans.<\/p>\n<h3>Can you make this vegan chocolate cake gluten-free too?<\/h3>\n<p>We have not tested any gluten-free flours with this vegan chocolate cake recipe, so please proceed with caution. If you do experiment, try it with one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/best-gluten-free-flour-blends\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/best-gluten-free-flour-blends\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">best gluten-free flour blends<\/a> on the market. Just double-check that the flour blend is vegan-friendly too.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A few secret ingredients\u2014homemade vegan buttermilk, coffee and applesauce\u2014make this the best vegan chocolate cake recipe ever.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7955,"featured_media":2110531,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"ep_exclude_from_search":false},"tags":[304032,303971,304158,306983,304523,303984,305744,306980,304993,304288,305487,304515,303966,304988,304408,304368,303887,306848,305784,304268,304072,324623,304150,303883,304473,307609,305028,305031],"categories-v2":[308623,308500,310461,309438,310025,308888,308513,311389,310014,311415,308988,308481,308940,259620,310796,308880,308495,308935,308813,308745,308478,309603,311426,259483,308669,309177,309434,308476,308876,310587,308974,308975],"coauthors":[342012],"recommended_recipes":[{"post_title":"Chocolate 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Cake","post_link":"\/recipes\/chocolate-marshmallow-cake\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps9876_TH10029C35B.jpg"},{"post_title":"Chocolate Ganache Cake","post_link":"\/recipes\/chocolate-ganache-cake\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Chocolate-Ganache-Cake_EXPS_FT22_35322_ST_12_06_1.jpg"},{"post_title":"Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies","post_link":"\/recipes\/vegan-chocolate-chip-cookies\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Vegan-Chocolate-Chip-Cookies_exps117476_THHC1997845B01_19_7bC_RMS.jpg"},{"post_title":"Chocolate Spice Cake","post_link":"\/recipes\/chocolate-spice-cake\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/exps47624_THHC1757657D50_RMS.jpg"},{"post_title":"Zucchini Chocolate Cake","post_link":"\/recipes\/zucchini-chocolate-cake\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/recipeFallback.jpg"},{"post_title":"Vegan Chocolate Mousse","post_link":"\/recipes\/vegan-chocolate-mousse\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/EXPS_TOHD24_255149_ChristineMa_1.jpg"},{"post_title":"Chocolate-Filled Angel Food Cake","post_link":"\/recipes\/chocolate-filled-angel-food-cake\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/exps188164_TH153341C11_19_5b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Chocolate Oatmeal Cake","post_link":"\/recipes\/chocolate-oatmeal-cake\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps14559_TH10170C13.jpg"},{"post_title":"Dark Chocolate Carrot Cake","post_link":"\/recipes\/dark-chocolate-carrot-cake\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Dark-Chocolate-Carrot-Cake_exps132026_SD2401784D10_18_6bC_RMS.jpg"}],"acf":{"long_pin_file":false,"ncv_override_generic_settings_option":false,"ncv_autoplay_option":"","ncv_stickyplay_option":"","ncv_ads_option":"","ncv_mute_option":"","ncv_comscore_option":"","ncv_autoplay_mobile_option":"","ncv_viewable_threshold_option":"","ncv_sticky_offset_option":"","ncv_autopause_option":"","ncv_sticky_offset_mobile_option":"","ncv_autopause_mobile_option":"","ncv_sticky_mobile_option":"","ncv_remove_player_option":false,"ncv_moat_option":"","long_pin":"https:\/\/tmbidigitalassetsazure.blob.core.windows.net\/rms3-prod\/attachments\/37\/1200x1200\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_EXPS_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_11.jpg"},"recipe_schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"Recipe","@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/vegan-chocolate-cake\/","name":"Vegan Chocolate Cake","datePublished":"2024-11-12","dateModified":"2025-01-31","prepTime":"PT30M","cookTime":"PT30M","totalTime":"PT60M","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_EXPS_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_11.jpg","height":1200,"width":1200},"recipeCategory":["Desserts"],"description":"A few secret ingredients\u2014homemade vegan buttermilk, coffee and applesauce\u2014make this the best vegan chocolate cake recipe ever.","recipeIngredient":["2 cups unsweetened non-dairy milk","1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon cider vinegar","1\/3 cup canola oil","1-1\/2 cups sugar","1\/2 cup unsweetened applesauce","2 teaspoons vanilla extract","1-3\/4 cups all-purpose flour","2\/3 cup baking cocoa","1 tablespoon instant coffee granules, optional","2 teaspoons baking powder","1 teaspoon baking soda","1\/2 teaspoon salt","FROSTING:","3-1\/2 cups confectioners' sugar","1\/3 cup baking cocoa","1 cup vegan butter-style sticks, softened","1 teaspoon vanilla extract","1\/4 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk"],"recipeInstructions":[{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Create the \u201cbuttermilk\u201d","text":"Preheat the oven to 350\u00b0F. Line the bottoms of two greased 9-inch round baking pans with parchment, then grease the parchment. In a liquid measuring cup, stir together the nondairy milk and the apple cider vinegar. Set this mixture aside.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_01.jpg"},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Make the batter","text":"In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the canola oil, sugar, applesauce and vanilla extract until well blended. In another large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking cocoa, instant coffee if desired, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the applesauce mixture, alternating with the milk\/vinegar mixture. Beat until the cake batter is nice and smooth. Editor\u2019s Tip: Try not to overbeat the cake batter or your cake can come out tough and dense.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_03.jpg"},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Bake the cakes","text":"Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Pop the cakes into the oven and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes. Remove the cakes from the pans and place the cakes on wire racks. Remove the parchment from the cakes and let the cakes cool completely to room temperature. Editor\u2019s Tip: Once cool, feel free to cut off any domes on the cake layers so your cakes can stack and sit nicely once assembled. The best way to level a cake without a cake leveler is with a serrated knife and a cake turner.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_04.jpg"},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Whip up the frosting","text":"Sift the confectioners' sugar and cocoa together to remove any tight clumps. In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the vegan butter and vanilla extract until blended. Beat in the confectioners' sugar mixture alternately with the nondairy milk to reach your desired frosting consistency.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_05.jpg"},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Frost the cake","text":"Using a mini offset spatula, butter knife or the back of a spoon, spread the frosting on top of one of the cakes, then stack the next layer on top and make sure they line up as perfectly as you can get them. Then, spread additional frosting over the top and sides of cake. Editor\u2019s Tip: If you\u2019re new to frosting cakes, check out our guide on how to frost a cake for more fleshed-out directions with tips and visuals. Voila! Your vegan chocolate cake is ready to serve. If you\u2019re nervous about making the first cut, here\u2019s how to cut a round cake like a pro.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_06.jpg"}],"recipeYield":"16 pieces","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Val Goodrich"}],"nutrition":{"@type":"NutritionInformation","calories":" 391 calories","fatContent":"17g fat (4g saturated fat)","cholesterolContent":"0 cholesterol","sodiumContent":"358mg sodium","carbohydrateContent":"60g carbohydrate (45g sugars","fiberContent":"2g fiber)","proteinContent":"3g protein."},"aggregateRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":0,"reviewCount":0,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},"video":{"data":{"status":204},"message":"No shortcode found in recipe"},"rms_legacy_id":"278711","romance_copy_dek":"A few secret ingredients\u2014homemade vegan buttermilk, coffee and applesauce\u2014make this the best vegan chocolate cake recipe ever.","enhanced_recipe_title":"Vegan Chocolate Cake","rms_legacy_data":{"RecipeCategories":null,"Ingredients":[{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"2 cups unsweetened non-dairy milk","IngredientText":"2 cups unsweetened non-dairy milk"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon cider vinegar","IngredientText":"1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon cider vinegar"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/3 cup canola oil","IngredientText":"1\/3 cup canola oil"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1-1\/2 cups sugar","IngredientText":"1-1\/2 cups sugar"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/2 cup unsweetened applesauce","IngredientText":"1\/2 cup unsweetened applesauce"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"2 teaspoons vanilla extract","IngredientText":"2 teaspoons vanilla extract"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1-3\/4 cups all-purpose flour","IngredientText":"1-3\/4 cups all-purpose flour"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"2\/3 cup baking cocoa","IngredientText":"2\/3 cup baking cocoa"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 tablespoon instant coffee granules, optional","IngredientText":"1 tablespoon instant coffee granules, optional"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"2 teaspoons baking powder","IngredientText":"2 teaspoons baking powder"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 teaspoon baking soda","IngredientText":"1 teaspoon baking soda"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/2 teaspoon salt","IngredientText":"1\/2 teaspoon salt"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"FROSTING:","IngredientText":"FROSTING:"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"3-1\/2 cups confectioners' sugar","IngredientText":"3-1\/2 cups confectioners' sugar"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/3 cup baking cocoa","IngredientText":"1\/3 cup baking cocoa"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 cup vegan butter-style sticks, softened","IngredientText":"1 cup vegan butter-style sticks, softened"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 teaspoon vanilla extract","IngredientText":"1 teaspoon vanilla extract"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/4 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk","IngredientText":"1\/4 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk"}],"FeaturedImage":"https:\/\/tmbidigitalassetsazure.blob.core.windows.net\/rms3-prod\/attachments\/37\/1200x1200\/Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_EXPS_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_11.jpg","RecipeId":278711,"AttachmentSourceId":null,"AttachmentSource":"Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes","PhotoCredit":"Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe photo by Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes","VideoCode":null,"RecipeAttachmentFileName":"Vegan-Chocolate-Cake_EXPS_TOHD25_278711_JonathanMelendez_11.jpg","ContributorId":null,"Firstname":"Julie","Lastname":"Andrews","City":"Rockford","StateDescription":"Michigan","IsCommunityCook":false,"TimeCallout":"Prep: 30 min. 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