🌱 Vegan Fudgy Chocolate Cake (Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free)

This rich, fudgy, and moist chocolate cake is completely plant-based, making it perfect for vegans and those with gluten or dairy sensitivities. It’s easy to make and tastes just as indulgent as a classic chocolate cake!

🍫 Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend
• ½ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
• ⅓ cup coconut oil (melted) or vegetable oil
• 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (helps the cake rise)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup applesauce (or mashed banana for moisture)
• ½ cup vegan dark chocolate chips (optional, for extra fudginess)

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• ½ cup coconut cream
• ½ cup vegan chocolate chips

🍰 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

3. In a large bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

4. In another bowl, combine almond milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes (this acts like buttermilk).
5. Add coconut oil, vanilla extract, and applesauce. Stir well.

Step 4: Combine & Bake

6. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until smooth.
7. Fold in the vegan chocolate chips (optional).
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool completely before adding ganache.

🍫 Making the Chocolate Ganache

10. Heat coconut cream in a saucepan until warm (don’t boil).
11. Remove from heat and add vegan chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy.
12. Pour the ganache over the cooled cake and spread evenly.

🌟 Tips & Variations

✔ Nut-Free Option: Use oat milk or soy milk instead of almond milk.
✔ Extra Richness: Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
✔ Toppings: Sprinkle with crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or fresh berries.

🍽️ Enjoy!

Slice and enjoy this decadent, fudgy chocolate cake with your favorite plant-based ice cream or a cup of coffee! ☕🍰