Vegan Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Vegan Spice Cake. 1 Bowl Super Moist Spiced Applesauce Cake with tons of winter spice flavor and Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting. Vegan Nut-free Recipe. Gluten-free option

Vegan Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Vegan Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Vegan Spice Cake. 1 Bowl Super Moist Spiced Applesauce Cake with tons of winter spice flavor and Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting. Vegan Nut-free Recipe. Gluten-free option

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 9

Step-by-step

  • Grease or line a cake pan or brownie pan (8 by 8 inch).
  • Preheat the oven to 360 F (185 C).
  • Mix the flax seed meal with water and set aside.
  • In a large bowl combine 1.5 cups of flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves and nutmeg.
  • Whisk well.
  • Fold in the dates.
  • Add the applesauce, flax seed mix, oil and vanilla if using.
  • Mix to just about combine into a slightly stiff mixture. (Mix in grated apple if using).
  • If batter is not stiff add flour 1 to 2 tbsp at a time and mix it.
  • Transfer the batter in a prepared cake pan and spread it using a spatula.
  • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick from the center comes out clean. (20-22 mins for muffins, 45 to 50 mins for a loaf).
  • Cool the cake for 5 mins and then remove from the pan.
  • Mix a tablespoon of maple syrup with 1 tsp of water and brush it all over the cake.
  • Frost with frosting of choice once the cake is cooled.
  • Optional Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting: Mix 6 oz vegan cream cheese (store bought or homemade, see homemade option in notes), a good pinch of salt and 1/4 cup maple syrup until smooth. Taste and adjust flavor, sweet with a tbsp of sugar if needed.
  • To Store: Just the cake can be stored in a covered container on the counter for up to 2 days. With the frosting, it needs to be refrigerated if not getting consumed in a couple of hours. Refrigerate them separately for up to 4 days.

My Cozy Kitchen Adventures: A Vegan Spice Cake Story

The aroma of warm spices fills my kitchen, a comforting scent that always reminds me of home. Today, I'm sharing a recipe that's become a staple in my repertoire – a deliciously moist vegan spice cake with a creamy, dreamy vegan cream cheese frosting. It's a recipe born from a desire for simple, wholesome treats that don't compromise on flavor. As a busy working mom, I need recipes that are both easy to make and satisfying to eat, and this cake certainly fits the bill. The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the spices to your liking – a touch more cinnamon, a hint of cardamom, or even a dash of allspice – creating a uniquely personalized flavor profile each time. And the best part? It's incredibly forgiving! Even if you're not a seasoned baker, you can whip this up without any major stress.

The ingredients are mostly pantry staples, making it perfect for a spontaneous baking session. The applesauce adds incredible moisture, resulting in a cake that's tender and crumbly, far from dry. The vegan cream cheese frosting is the perfect complement, providing a tangy sweetness that balances the warm spice notes of the cake. I like to use a lightly sweetened applesauce; you can adjust the sweetness level of both the cake and frosting to your preference by adding more or less sugar. The addition of chopped dates provides a lovely chewy texture and subtle sweetness. If dates aren't your thing, dried cranberries or other dried fruits work wonderfully as well.

This cake isn't just a delicious treat; it's a ritual. The act of baking, of measuring ingredients, of mixing and whisking, is a meditative process for me. It's a time to slow down, disconnect from the demands of the day, and focus on the simple pleasure of creating something beautiful and delicious. And then, sharing it with loved ones makes it all the more special. The warm, spiced aroma that wafts through the house as it bakes is irresistible; it's a siren song calling everyone to the kitchen for a slice (or two!). It's the perfect dessert for a cozy night in, a weekend brunch, or even a casual weeknight gathering. Its simplicity and versatility make it adaptable for any occasion.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds. Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and richness, or consider substituting sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option. If you're looking for a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend. The possibilities are endless! This recipe is a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch, allowing you to customize it to your liking and preferences. The more you bake it, the better you’ll get at adjusting the flavors to suit your taste. Whether you are making it for a special celebration or just a quiet night at home, this vegan spice cake will undoubtedly bring joy and warmth to your table.

More than just a recipe, this vegan spice cake is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of love. It's a reminder that even the most elaborate-tasting treats can be surprisingly easy to make, even for a busy individual juggling work, family, and everything in between. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic of baking transform your kitchen into a haven of warmth, comfort, and delightful spice. The journey of making this cake is as rewarding as savoring every bite.

Beyond the individual enjoyment, baking this cake becomes a delightful opportunity to connect with others. The act of sharing this sweet treat with friends and family transforms the experience into a shared moment of joy and connection. The simple act of offering someone a slice of cake can be a powerful gesture of kindness and warmth, bringing people together in the most delicious of ways. And who doesn't love a warm, comforting slice of cake, especially when it's homemade with love and the delightful aroma of warm spices filling the air?