Name: Vegan Almond Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 cups (200g) almond flour / blanched almond meal; 1 1/2 cup (190g) all-purpose plain flour (or gluten-free all-purpose flour); 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 3 teaspoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons lemon zest (or orange zest, optional); Pinch of salt; 1 cup (250g) dairy-free milk; 1/3 cup (85g) neutral flavored oil (light olive oil or melted vegan butter); 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice, optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla paste; 1/2 teaspoon almond flavoring; 1/2 cup (45g) sliced almonds; Powdered sugar / icing sugar for dusting

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 9 reviews

If you are on the lookout for a delightful treat that combines nutty richness with a tender crumb, this Vegan Almond Cake Recipe will soon become your new favorite. It’s wonderfully moist, subtly sweet, and captures the warm flavors of almonds in every bite without any animal products. Whether you are vegan, gluten-sensitive, or simply curious about plant-based baking, this cake is easy to make yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. Let’s dive into this irresistible journey of turning simple ingredients into an aromatic, fluffy, and delicious dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two clear glass bowls both placed on a white marbled surface. The bowl on the right contains a ring of light beige flour around the edges and a pool of bubbly pale yellow liquid mixture in the center, with a white spatula resting inside. The bowl on the left has a thick, smooth, light beige batter being stirred by the white spatula, with visible swirls and texture on the batter surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Vegan Almond Cake Recipe is all about simplicity meeting flavor. Each ingredient works together to create a perfectly tender cake with just the right balance of texture and taste. From the rich almond flour to the zing of lemon zest, every addition is essential to the final magic.

Almond flour (2 cups / 200g): Provides moistness and a naturally nutty flavor that forms the cake’s base.
All-purpose plain flour (1 1/2 cups / 190g): Offers structure and balance, or use gluten-free flour for a wheat-free option.
Granulated sugar (1 cup / 200g): Sweetens without overpowering the subtle almond essence.
Baking powder (3 teaspoons): Helps the cake rise to a light, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
Lemon zest (2 teaspoons): Optional but highly recommended to brighten the flavor with a fresh citrus note.
Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Dairy-free milk (1 cup / 250g): Keeps the cake moist and suits any vegan preference.
Neutral flavored oil (1/3 cup / 85g): Such as light olive oil or melted vegan butter, adds tenderness and richness.
Apple cider vinegar (2 teaspoons): Reacts with baking powder to create a perfect rise and tender crumb, optional but beneficial.
Vanilla paste (1 teaspoon): Deepens the flavor and adds warmth.
Almond flavoring (1/2 teaspoon): Intensifies the almond notes wonderfully without overpowering.
Sliced almonds (1/2 cup / 45g): For a lovely crunchy topping and extra almond texture.
Powdered sugar / icing sugar: For dusting to add a pretty finishing touch and a hint of sweetness.

How to Make Vegan Almond Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preparing to Bake

First things first, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line or grease an 8-inch springform or loose bottom cake pan at least 2 inches tall. Lining with parchment paper helps the cake release perfectly, so don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, lemon zest (if using), and a pinch of salt until you get an even blend. This ensures every bite is evenly flavorful and well-textured.

Step 3: Adding the Wet Ingredients

Next, pour in your dairy-free milk, neutral oil, apple cider vinegar, vanilla paste, and almond flavoring directly into the dry mix. Stir gently with a spatula or spoon until just combined. The batter will be thick and rich, which is exactly what we want for this cake.

Step 4: Preparing for the Oven

Transfer the thick batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the surface with the back of a spoon or spatula. Generously sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top. This adds a delightful crunch once baked and makes the cake look inviting.

Step 5: Baking and Cooling

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If you prefer a fudgier, marzipan-like center, bake for about 5 minutes less. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling helps the flavors settle and the texture firm up beautifully.

How to Serve Vegan Almond Cake Recipe

The image shows one slice of light golden brown cake with a soft and crumbly texture. The top layer is decorated with slivered almonds and a light dusting of powdered sugar, giving it a slightly textured and pale finish. The cake slice sits on a white plate with rustic edges and faint red speckles, placed on a white marbled surface. The background is softly blurred with warm tones, highlighting the cake slice in clear focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Vegan Almond Cake Recipe, a simple dusting of powdered sugar works wonders. It adds a delicate sweetness and makes the cake look picture-perfect. For extra flair, top with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries to introduce bursts of juicy freshness and extra color.

Side Dishes

This almond cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of coconut yogurt or a drizzle of homemade vegan cream. The cool creaminess balances the cake’s nutty texture. For an indulgent touch, serve alongside a berry compote or freshly sliced fruit to brighten every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, try layering slices with vegan whipped cream and toasted almond flakes to make a quick trifle. Or cut into small squares and serve on a dessert platter next to a pot of vegan tea or coffee for a charming afternoon treat. Adding edible flowers or a light glaze of lemon icing also makes this cake shine visually.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Vegan Almond Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day without losing moisture. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to five days. Keeping it covered well prevents drying out and keeps the almonds fresh.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully, so wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it inside a freezer-safe container or bag. Stored properly, it will keep well for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you like your cake slightly warm, gently heat slices in a low oven (about 150°C / 300°F) for 10 to 15 minutes or microwave briefly in short bursts. Avoid overheating to maintain moisture and prevent the almonds from toasting too much.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of almond flour?

Almond flour is key to this Vegan Almond Cake Recipe’s signature flavor and texture, but you can experiment with hazelnut or cashew flour. Keep in mind that it may alter the taste and baking time slightly.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose plain flour for a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose blend in the same quantity. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free for the best results.

What kind of oil works best?

A neutral oil like light olive oil or melted vegan butter is ideal. Avoid strong-flavored oils like extra virgin olive oil as they might overpower the delicate almond notes.

Can I add fruit or chocolate to this cake?

For sure! Chopped vegan dark chocolate or dried fruits like cranberries or cherries can be folded into the batter before baking to add yummy surprises in every bite.

How long does the cake keep fresh?

Left at room temperature in an airtight container, it remains fresh for about one day. Refrigeration extends this to around five days without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Vegan Almond Cake Recipe a go because it’s such a joy to bake and even more delightful to eat. Its simplicity, combined with the rich almond flavor and moist crumb, makes it a standout dessert for any occasion. Once you try it, I’m sure it will earn a special place in your recipe collection just like it did in mine!