Vegan orange cake is a delightful treat that combines the vibrant flavor of oranges with a moist, fluffy texture. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, enjoying afternoon tea, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a favorite among both seasoned bakers and beginners. With a bright orange aroma filling your kitchen, this cake promises to bring warmth and joy to any gathering.
Why We Love This Vegan Orange Cake
This vegan orange cake stands out for its refreshing citrus flavor and incredibly moist crumb. Unlike traditional cakes, this recipe skips the eggs and dairy while still delivering a rich, satisfying taste. The use of fresh oranges provides a natural sweetness and a pop of color, elevating the experience. You can enjoy it plain or dress it up with a glaze or frosting. Its versatility allows it to shine in any setting, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations. Additionally, it’s a fantastic dessert for those on a plant-based diet or anyone looking for a lighter cake option. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the burst of citrus makes this cake a beloved choice among all who try it.
Ingredients for Vegan Orange Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the almond milk, vegetable oil, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and apple cider vinegar.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cake.
- Carefully pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Vegan Orange Cake
Vegan orange cake offers a bright, cheerful presentation at the table. You can serve it plain for a simple yet satisfying treat, allowing the orange flavor to shine. For special occasions, consider dusting the top with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. You can also drizzle a homemade citrus glaze made from powdered sugar and a bit of orange juice over the top for an extra zing.
Pairing this cake with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream adds a nice contrast of temperatures and textures. Alternatively, serve it with fresh orange slices or berries for a refreshing side. If you’re feeling creative, a dollop of coconut whipped cream can elevate the experience, providing a rich, creamy complement to the citrus notes. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or a festive gathering, this cake adds a burst of flavor and joy to any dessert table.
Expert Tips for Vegan Orange Cake
To ensure your vegan orange cake turns out perfectly, follow these expert tips. First, measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. This prevents dense cake caused by using too much flour.
Use fresh oranges for both juice and zest to achieve the best flavor. The zest contains essential oils that contribute to the cake’s aroma and taste. If you’re looking for additional sweetness or flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients.
To avoid a dry cake, avoid overmixing the batter. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients until just combined, as this helps maintain a lighter texture. Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, so checking for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off is wise.
Remember to let the cake cool completely before serving or frosting. This allows the cake to set properly, ensuring it holds its shape and stays moist. If you want a firmer cake, consider refrigerating it for a little while before serving. These tips will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable while creating a delicious treat everyone will love.
How to Store Vegan Orange Cake
To keep your vegan orange cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a particularly warm climate or notice that the cake starts to dry out, it may be best to refrigerate it. Place it in an airtight container, and it should stay fresh for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. To reintroduce some moisture, you can warm it slightly in the oven for a few minutes. This will refresh its texture, bringing back warmth to each slice.
Variations of Vegan Orange Cake
Explore the world of flavors with variations of vegan orange cake. One popular spin involves adding poppy seeds to the batter for added crunch and visual appeal. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or cardamom to give the cake a warm, spiced presence.
For a chocolate twist, substitute a portion of the flour with cocoa powder. Adding mini chocolate chips to the batter will enhance the flavor, creating a delightful combination. If you love nuts, consider folding in chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Another enticing variation features a lemon-orange blend, combining both citrus fruits for a zesty kick. Adjust the juice and zest proportions according to your preference. Additionally, consider using different non-dairy milk options like oat or soy milk for variations in taste and texture.
Lastly, innovative bakers can try adding a layer of orange-flavored frosting to create a more decadent dessert. You can whip up a simple vegan frosting using powdered sugar, coconut cream, and orange juice for a delicious addition. With these variations, you can personalize your vegan orange cake to suit your taste buds and make it unique.
FAQ about Vegan Orange Cake
You’ve probably got some questions about vegan orange cake, so let’s cover some common ones.
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. This adjustment makes it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I replace the oil with applesauce? Absolutely! Using applesauce in place of oil can lower the fat content and add moisture. Just remember to use unsweetened applesauce to maintain balance with the cake’s sweetness.
How can I enhance the orange flavor in the cake? To amplify the orange essence, increase the amount of orange zest or add a bit of orange extract. This will give your cake a more pronounced citrus aroma.
What type of non-dairy milk works best? Almond milk works beautifully, but you can also utilize oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk, depending on your personal preference and dietary needs.
Is vegan orange cake kid-friendly? Definitely! The sweet citrus flavor tends to be a hit with children. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce them to vegan desserts without compromising on taste.
These FAQs aim to help you successfully bake and enjoy your vegan orange cake, making this treat accessible and enjoyable for everyone who tries it.
Vegan Orange Cake
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar) Can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk) Other options include soy or oat milk.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil) Can substitute with unsweetened applesauce.
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice Freshly squeezed is best.
- Zest of 1 large orange Essential for enhancing orange flavor.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Helps with leavening.
Optional
- powdered sugar for dusting For decorative finishing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the almond milk, vegetable oil, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and apple cider vinegar.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!