Vegan Orange Cake Recipe – A Delicious, Citrusy Treat!

Looking for a flavorful and moist dessert that’s both vegan and gluten-free? This Vegan Orange Cake is a perfect choice! Bursting with bright citrus flavor, this cake is airy, fluffy, and finished with a luscious orange cream frosting. Best of all, it’s made with healthy, plant-based ingredients and contains no refined sugars. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1/2 cup canola oil
  • 1/2 cup vegan milk (such as soy, almond, or oat milk)
  • 1 tbsp distilled white vinegar
  • 2 tbsp orange zest
  • 3 tsp orange extract
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup white sugar (or preferred sugar substitute)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (or a sugar-free alternative)
  • 1 tsp orange essence
  • A pinch of salt
  • Optional: fresh orange slices and zest for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line the bottom of a cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift the all-purpose flour. Add salt, baking soda, and sugar. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the vegan milk, canola oil, distilled vinegar, vanilla extract, orange extract, and orange zest. Stir until well blended.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened vegan butter, powdered sugar, orange essence, and salt. Start at a low speed and gradually increase until the frosting is thick and smooth.

Step 8: Frost & Garnish

Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Garnish with fresh orange slices and zest for an extra citrusy touch.

Storage Tips

  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Freeze individual slices for up to a month; thaw before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 541 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 82g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 469mg
  • Iron: 1mg

This Vegan Orange Cake is a must-try for citrus lovers. Light, fluffy, and naturally sweetened, it’s the perfect guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or as an everyday treat, this cake will bring a burst of sunshine to your plate. Enjoy!