Apple season always brings out the best in my kitchen, and this vegan apple cake is a shining example. Made with fresh, crisp apples and a touch of cinnamon, it’s the kind of dessert that feels like a hug on a chilly day.
But what really makes this recipe special? It’s all about simplicity without sacrificing flavor—or that soft, tender crumb we all love in a cake.
If you’re looking for something quicker but just as satisfying, try pairing this cake with a batch of No-Bake Cookies.
They’re the ultimate easy treat when you need a chocolate fix without turning on the oven—perfect for those in-between moments while your apple cake bakes.
I first made this cake on a whim, inspired by a bag of farmers’ market apples and the challenge of creating something indulgent yet completely plant-based.
Turns out, it’s now a family favorite! Plus, it’s naturally dairy- and egg-free, which makes it perfect for everyone to enjoy, whether they’re vegan or just looking for a lighter treat.
What Makes This Recipe Special:
- Perfectly Moist and Tender: The apples release their natural juices as the cake bakes, making every bite soft and luscious.
- Naturally Sweetened Option: Use maple syrup or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free version without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for a fall gathering, a casual afternoon snack, or a festive dessert table.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Payoff: Just pantry staples and fresh apples—no fancy substitutes needed.
- A Dash of Nostalgia: The warm cinnamon and apple aroma as it bakes? Pure magic.
Vegan Apple Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups
- Grater
- Electric Hand Mixer
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Apple Cake:
- 2 ½ cups All Purpose Flour
- 1 ½ cups Light Brown Sugar
- 1 ½ tsp Baking Soda
- ½ tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- ¼ tsp Nutmeg
- 1 cup Vegan Buttermilk 1 Tbsp Lemon Juice + Soy Milk up to the 1 cup line
- ⅓ cup Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 Tbsp Applesauce
- 1 ½ cups Granny Smith Apple Peeled and Chopped
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- ½ cup White Granulated Sugar
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1 Tbsp Vegan Butter Softened
For Serving:
- Vegan Whipped Cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and spray a 9×13 dish with non-stick spray.
- Sift the flour into a bowl, then add brown sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix together.
- Make vegan buttermilk: Add 1 tbsp lemon juice to 1 cup soy milk, stir, and let it curdle for a minute.
- Add the vegan buttermilk, oil, vanilla, apple cider vinegar, and applesauce to the dry ingredients. Mix well.
- Fold in the chopped apple pieces.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish and smooth it down.
- Make the topping: Mix sugar, cinnamon, and softened vegan butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the topping over the batter and bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Serve warm with vegan whipped cream or ice cream.
