If you’re searching for an easy vegan chocolate cake recipe that’s rich, moist, and irresistibly delicious, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re new to vegan baking or looking for a quick, dairy-free dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor, this guide will walk you through a range of chocolate cake options—from oil-free versions to celebrity chef favorites. You’ll also find options for small cakes, cakes with minimal ingredients, and recipes that are perfect for any occasion.
Let’s dive into the world of easy vegan cake recipes and discover the best ways to bake without milk, eggs, or butter.
Why Go Vegan or Dairy-Free with Your Chocolate Cake?
There are plenty of reasons people choose to make a vegan or dairy-free chocolate cake. Some follow a plant-based lifestyle, others have food allergies, and many just want a healthier, lighter dessert. A well-made vegan cake is often lower in cholesterol, free from animal products, and incredibly moist. Plus, with easy substitutions, you’ll never miss the traditional ingredients.
If you’re aiming to impress with minimal effort, an easy vegan chocolate cake recipe is a must-have in your baking rotation.
The Best Easy Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe (Oil Option)
Here’s a tried-and-true easy vegan chocolate cake recipe with oil that’s simple to prepare and turns out perfect every time. It’s soft, fluffy, and deeply chocolatey.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup water (yes, a chocolate cake with water instead of milk)
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the water, oil, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving or adding frosting.
This version is considered by many to be the best dairy free chocolate cake thanks to its light texture and easy preparation. It’s the perfect go-to easy vegan chocolate cake recipe for any occasion.
Oil-Free Option: Easy Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe Without Oil
For a healthier take, try an easy vegan chocolate cake recipe without oil. You can replace oil with mashed bananas, applesauce, or even avocado. These alternatives keep the cake moist and tender while reducing fat.
Use the same recipe above but substitute the ⅓ cup of oil with ½ cup unsweetened applesauce. You’ll be amazed at how moist and rich the cake turns out—even without oil!
This also doubles as an easy dairy free chocolate cake recipe without oil, making it suitable for those watching their fat intake or avoiding added oils.
Minimal Ingredient Vegan Cakes
Busy day? Empty pantry? No problem. You can still make a delicious vegan cake using just a few ingredients.
3 Ingredient Vegan Chocolate Cake
This recipe is ideal when you want dessert fast and simple:
- 1½ cups self-raising flour
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 1½ cups plant-based milk
Mix all the ingredients, pour into a pan, and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 25–30 minutes. This 3 ingredient vegan chocolate cake is great for beginners or minimalists.
5 Ingredient Vegan Chocolate Cake
For a slightly richer option, try:
- 1½ cups flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1½ cups water or plant milk
This 5 ingredient vegan chocolate cake offers both simplicity and full flavor. It’s also another great example of an easy vegan chocolate cake recipe that doesn’t compromise on texture.
Easy Dairy Free Chocolate Cake Recipes
Many home bakers prefer going dairy-free rather than fully vegan. If that’s you, these easy dairy free chocolate cake recipes are your best bet.
With Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder adds deep flavor and is a staple in most vegan desserts. Use any plant-based milk in place of regular milk.
- 1½ cups flour
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup almond or oat milk
- ⅓ cup oil or applesauce
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 vinegar
This easy dairy free chocolate cake recipe with cocoa powder produces a rich and moist cake perfect for parties.
Without Oil
Skip the oil and use applesauce instead for a low-fat version. This easy dairy free chocolate cake recipe without oil is a great option for health-conscious bakers.
With or without oil, it still counts as an easy vegan chocolate cake recipe that suits nearly every diet.
Chocolate Cake with Water Instead of Milk
You might be surprised to learn that a moist chocolate cake without milk is totally possible. Using water not only saves calories and cost, but also lets the cocoa flavor shine through.
This makes for a super budget-friendly easy vegan chocolate cake recipe that still turns out deliciously moist.
Chef-Inspired Recipes: Nigella & Jamie Oliver
Looking for trusted chef-approved options?
Vegan Chocolate Cake Nigella
The vegan chocolate cake Nigella is famous for its rich, luxurious taste. It uses almond milk and coconut oil to enhance flavor and texture. Many consider this one of the most elegant versions of an easy vegan chocolate cake recipe.
Vegan Chocolate Cake Jamie Oliver
The vegan chocolate cake Jamie Oliver is another fantastic pick. He often includes mashed bananas for added moisture and sweetness—perfect for health-conscious bakers.
For non-vegans, the dairy free chocolate cake Nigella uses dark chocolate and olive oil, delivering a gourmet taste without dairy.
Small Vegan Cake Recipes
Sometimes you just want a small batch. Small vegan cake recipes are ideal when you don’t need a whole cake. Halve the ingredients of a standard easy vegan chocolate cake recipe and bake it in ramekins or mini tins.
This is especially helpful for couples, students, or anyone practicing portion control.
Conclusion: Bake the Perfect Easy Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe Every Time
As you can see, making a delicious, fluffy, and moist cake without eggs or dairy is not only possible—it’s incredibly easy and fun! Whether you want a rich dessert for a celebration or a simple treat for tea time, an easy dairy free chocolate cake recipe is your ultimate solution.
To recap:
- Use oil for richness or go with an easy dairy free chocolate cake recipe without oil for a healthier version
- Go minimal with a 3 ingredient vegan chocolate cake or a 5 ingredient vegan chocolate cake
- Experiment with a chocolate cake with water instead of milk
- Try recipes inspired by vegan chocolate cake Nigella or vegan chocolate cake Jamie Oliver
- Keep it dairy-free with an easy dairy free chocolate cake recipe that suits every lifestyle
Whichever option you choose, one thing is certain: a well-made easy dairy free chocolate cake recipe is bound to impress everyone who takes a bite.