How to Make a Cake Vegan: 8 Steps
Are you looking to create a delicious vegan cake for your next gathering or just as a treat for yourself? You’re in luck! There are simple substitutions and techniques that can help you produce a mouthwatering vegan cake without sacrificing flavor or texture. Follow these eight steps to turn almost any traditional cake recipe into a completely animal-free treat:
1. Replace Eggs: One crucial ingredient in most cakes is the egg. But it’s relatively easy to replace eggs in a vegan cake recipe. To replace one egg, consider using:
– 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce
– 1/2 mashed banana
– A mixture of 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed and 3 tablespoons of water
2. Choose Dairy-Free Milk: Instead of using cow’s milk in your cake, try one of these plant-based milk options:
– Soy milk
– Almond milk
– Oat milk
– Coconut milk
3. Switch to Vegan Butter: There are multiple brands of vegan butter available, making this an easy substitution. Alternatively, you can use coconut oil or vegetable shortening.
4. Veganize Chocolate: If your cake recipe calls for chocolate, ensure you’re using dairy-free chocolate chips or chocolate bars.
5. Experiment with Sweeteners: Refined sugar is often processed with bone charcoal, making it unsuitable for strict vegans. Substitute it with alternatives like coconut sugar, maple syrup, or agave nectar.
6. Opt for Vegan Baking Powder: Baking powder can also contain non-vegan ingredients like monocalcium phosphate derived from animal bones. Look for brands with vegan-friendly baking powders or make your own by mixing two parts cream of tartar with one part baking soda.
7. Modify Mix-ins and Frosting: Make sure any additional mix-ins like marshmallows, jellies, or sprinkles are vegan. For icing, use vegan butter or shortening with powdered sugar, and flavor it with plant-based milk or extracts.
8. Know When to Adjust Baking Times and Temperature: When using alternative ingredients, the cake’s baking time and temperature may need alteration. Keep an eye on your cake during the baking process and test with a toothpick for doneness.
Now that you know these eight steps to making a cake vegan, you’re ready to create your very own delicious plant-based masterpiece. Experiment and have fun in the process!