Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious, wholesome dessert that’s perfect for kids and adults alike, this Vegan Berry Cake with Smooth Frosting is a winner! Soft, moist, and naturally sweetened, this cake is made with plant-based ingredients and topped with a creamy frosting and fresh berries. It’s a simple yet elegant treat that will brighten up any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
This vegan cake is made with wholesome ingredients like almond milk, coconut oil, and fresh berries. It’s not only dairy-free and egg-free, but it’s also incredibly light and fluffy. Topped with a homemade frosting, it’s a perfect balance of sweetness without being overly sugary. It’s an easy-to-make cake, perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or just a sweet treat after school.
How to Make Vegan Berry Cake with Smooth Frosting
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
- ½ cup maple syrup or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries)
For the frosting:
- 1 cup coconut cream or vegan butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- Fresh berries for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. - Make the cake batter:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the almond milk, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Gently fold in the berries. - Bake the cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing it. - Make the frosting:
While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut cream (or vegan butter), powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Add almond milk a little at a time until the frosting reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency. - Assemble the cake:
Once the cake has completely cooled, spread a generous layer of frosting over the top of the cake. Garnish with fresh berries and a light dusting of powdered sugar if desired. - Serve:
Slice the cake and serve immediately. This cake also keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days—if it lasts that long!
How to Serve
This cake is perfect for a birthday party, afternoon tea, or as a special dessert for any occasion. Serve it on its own, or pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Tips for Making Vegan Berry Cake with Smooth Frosting
- If you don’t have coconut oil, you can substitute with vegetable oil or melted vegan butter.
- Feel free to swap the berries for other fruits, like sliced peaches or apples, depending on what’s in season.
- For a lighter frosting, you can use a vegan whipped cream instead of coconut cream.
Variations
- For a chocolate version, add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- If you prefer a cream cheese frosting, you can substitute part of the coconut cream for vegan cream cheese.
FAQs
Can I prepare this cake in advance?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. Frost just before serving.
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen berries work just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
Is this cake gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute if needed.
Nutritional Information for Vegan Berry Cake with Smooth Frosting
This cake is a delicious and satisfying dessert with a balance of sweetness and lightness. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients per serving:
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Vitamins and minerals: Rich in vitamin C (from the berries) and healthy fats (from coconut oil and coconut cream)
Perfect Dessert for Special Occasions
This Vegan Berry Cake is perfect for celebrations or any time you want a sweet, but not overly indulgent, treat. The fresh berries add a burst of flavor and make it a fun, colorful dessert everyone will love.
Quick Recipe for Busy Days
Ready in about 45 minutes, this cake is a quick and easy dessert to whip up when you need something sweet in a pinch. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Ideal for Meal Prep
You can bake this cake ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s a great option for prepping desserts for a party or just having a sweet snack ready at home.
