This Vegan Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall with its warm spices and juicy apples. Moist and fluffy, it’s perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year. Here’s how to make it!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (312g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups (300g) light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups (about 3 medium) peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• Optional: 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Optional: Vegan whipped cream for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or an equivalent round cake pan.
2. Prepare Vegan Buttermilk: In a small bowl, combine the non-dairy milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to curdle.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the curdled non-dairy milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Fold in Apples and Nuts: Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly.
7. Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cake batter.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve: Slice your Vegan Apple Cake and serve it warm or at room temperature. Top with vegan whipped cream if desired.

Tips for Success

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for up to three months.
• Customization: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth, or use different varieties of apples for varied flavor profiles.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.

This Vegan Apple Cake is not only delicious but also easy to make! Enjoy this comforting dessert with family and friends!