This Vegan Apple Cake is the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, with juicy apples folded into a soft, tender cake that’s entirely plant-based.
The rich cinnamon and nutmeg blend beautifully with the apples, creating a comforting flavor that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. What’s even better?
It’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for anyone following a vegan lifestyle—or simply looking for a delicious, dairy-free dessert.
I first baked this cake when I was craving something sweet, but I wanted to keep it light and vegan-friendly. The result was better than I expected!
The apples keep the cake moist and add a natural sweetness, while the spices give it that cozy, fall flavor, no matter the season.
It’s a cake that’s full of love and goodness, and I’m always proud to share it with friends and family.
Pair this cake with a chilled glass of iced tea for a refreshing touch or drizzle some velvety caramel sauce on top for a little extra indulgence. Either way, this cake will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out—feel free to get creative with your add-ins too!
What’s so Special About This Dish?
- Vegan-Friendly: This cake is completely plant-based, but you’d never know it by the taste.
- Naturally Sweetened: The apples provide all the sweetness you need, making it a lighter treat.
- Perfect Texture: Moist, fluffy, and tender with just the right amount of spiced flavor.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual afternoon or a festive gathering, this cake is always a hit.
Vegan Apple Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 8-inch or 9-inch cake pan
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Medium bowl
- Silicon spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup plant milk soy almond, oats
- ¾ cup sugar plus 2 tbsp to sprinkle on top
- ¼ cup vegetable oil sunflower oil canola oil, or melted vegan butter
- Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups flour all-purpose wholewheat, or 50% all-purpose and 50% wholewheat (see notes below for more info)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 3 teaspoons cinnamon or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract with wet ingredients
- 1 pinch salt
- 3 – 4 medium apples about 6 ounces or 170 grams per whole apple – 2 apples for the filling and 1 to 2 apples for the top
Instructions
- Grease the cake pan, dust with flour, and line the bottom with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 360°F (180°C).
- Whisk plant milk, sugar, and oil in a medium bowl.
- Sift in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix gently into a thick, smooth batter.
- Fold in chunks from 2 apples and pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Arrange thinly sliced apple pieces on top in a circular pattern and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of sugar.
- Bake for 55–60 minutes, then cool for 1 hour. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 253kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 47g |
| Potassium | 248mg |
| Fat | 6g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sugar | 21g |
Variations and Substitutions to Suit Your Preferences!
- Plant Milk Choice: For a creamier texture, opt for full-fat coconut milk. Soy or oat milk works great for a neutral flavor, but coconut adds richness. If you’re after a lighter cake, go with almond milk.
- Sugar Adjustment: Use brown sugar for a deeper, caramelized flavor or coconut sugar for a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. Adjust the sweetness according to your apple variety—tart apples like Granny Smith may need more sugar, while sweeter varieties (like Fuji) might need less.
- Oil Substitute: If using vegan butter, ensure it’s soft but not melted before mixing. If you want a slightly firmer cake, opt for sunflower oil as it has a neutral flavor and works well in this recipe.
- Flour Mix: Experiment with half all-purpose and half wholewheat flour for added depth and a heartier texture. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour can make the cake a bit denser, so adding an extra teaspoon of baking powder can help with lift.
