Contributed by April Llaret
Hey there, fellow chocolate lovers! Did you know January 27th is Chocolate Cake Day? As a chocolate cake enthusiast who’s also into vegan treats, I’m here to share some awesome ways to celebrate this sweet day with a vegan twist.
A few years ago, I decided to go vegan and with my birthday coming up, I was determined to have my cake and eat it too! But it, of course, had to be a vegan chocolate cake. I found a simple recipe online (similar to the one below), and to my surprise, it turned out amazing. My non-vegan friends were skeptical at first but after one bite, they were hooked. Since then, it’s become a tradition to make this cake and share it on Chocolate Cake Day. It’s proof that vegan baking can be just as satisfying and indulgent!
Why Go Vegan?
First off, why vegan? Well, choosing vegan desserts is not only kinder to animals but also better for the environment. And trust me, vegan cakes can be just as rich and delicious as their non-vegan counterparts. You don’t need eggs or dairy to make a cake that’s moist, decadent, and absolutely drool-worthy.
My Favorite Vegan Chocolate Cake Recipe
Let me start by sharing my go-to basic vegan chocolate cake recipe. It’s super simple and always a hit at parties!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the water, vegetable oil, vinegar, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost with your favorite vegan chocolate frosting or simply dust with powdered sugar.
Fun Ways to Celebrate
1. Cake Decorating Party: Invite your friends over and have a blast decorating vegan chocolate cakes. I love providing a bunch of vegan toppings like coconut whipped cream, fresh berries, nuts, and edible flowers. Everyone gets creative, and it’s so much fun to see what everyone comes up with.
2. Vegan Potluck: Host a vegan potluck and ask your guests to bring their favorite vegan dishes, including different types of chocolate cakes. It’s a great way to try new recipes and discover new favorites. Plus, who doesn’t love a good potluck?
3. Virtual Baking Party: If your friends are scattered all over, organize a virtual baking party. Share the recipe beforehand and bake together on a video call. It’s almost like being together, and you can still enjoy seeing each other’s cake creations.
4. Share with Others: Bring your Vegan Chocolate Cake to work, school, or give a cake to your neighbors, friends, acquaintences, or relatives! I started a tradition of taking my Vegan Chocolate Cake to a neighbor each year. It is a great way to open doors to those who live around you.
Vegan Chocolate Cake Alternatives
Want to switch things up? Here are some other vegan chocolate cake options you might love:
- Vegan Chocolate Lava Cake: Individual cakes with a gooey center – pure heaven!
- Vegan Chocolate Cheesecake: Creamy, rich, and oh-so-decadent.
- Vegan Chocolate Banana Bread: Perfect for breakfast or dessert.
- Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes: Cute and perfect for sharing.
Sharing the Vegan Celebration
1. Social Media Fun: Snap pics of your vegan chocolate cake and share them on social media. Use hashtags like #VeganChocolateCakeDay or #PlantBasedDesserts. Let’s spread the vegan love!
2. Blog or Vlog It: If you’re into blogging or vlogging, document your Chocolate Cake Day celebrations. Share your recipe, baking tips, and fun moments from your day. It’s a great way to inspire others to try vegan baking.
3. Gift a Cake: Bake an extra cake and gift it to a friend, neighbor, or coworker. Include the recipe so they can try making it themselves. It’s a sweet gesture that spreads joy and vegan goodness.
4. Host a Giveaway: If you have a business, why not host a vegan cake giveaway on social media? Ask followers to share their favorite vegan dessert or tag a friend for a chance to win. It’s a fun way to engage with your audience and promote vegan options.
Chocolate Cake Day with a Vegan Twist
Celebrating Chocolate Cake Day with a vegan twist is an awesome way to indulge while staying true to your values. Whether you’re baking at home, hosting a party, or sharing your creations online, there’s no shortage of ways to make this day special. So, grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s celebrate!