Name: Irresistibly Moist Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 33 min
Total time: 58 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Coconut Sugar (Adds rich sweetness); 1/2 cup Coconut Cream (For a smooth texture); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Balances sweetness); 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Base for structure); 1/2 cup Cocoa Powder (For rich chocolate flavor); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Leavening agent); 1/2 cup Unsweetened Applesauce (Egg substitute); 1 cup Almond Milk (Keeps batter smooth); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Adds richness); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor); 8 oz Vegan Cream Cheese (For smooth frosting); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Sweetens frosting); 1/2 cup Cooled Caramel (Adds flavor)

You know that feeling when a dessert feels like a warm hug? That’s exactly what awaits you with my One Bowl MOIST Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake. This luscious creation combines a rich, soft chocolate sponge with layers of gooey salted caramel, all topped off with a creamy vegan caramel frosting. It’s the perfect treat for anyone who craves comfort without sacrificing their dietary choices—completely dairy-free and eggless, yet unbelievably satisfying! What’s more, its simple one-bowl preparation makes cleanup a breeze, leaving you more time to indulge and impress your friends. Ready to discover how to whip up this sweet masterpiece that will leave everyone, vegan or not, asking for seconds? Let’s get baking!

Why is this cake a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires just one bowl, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Irresistible Flavor: The symphony of rich chocolate and gooey caramel delivers a taste experience that will linger on your palate long after the last bite.

Vegan Delight: Completely dairy-free and eggless, this cake fits wonderfully into a vegan lifestyle while remaining satisfying for non-vegans too.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a casual dessert treat, this vegan chocolate caramel cake is bound to wow your guests.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves an indulgent dessert, and this cake’s moist texture and delightful flavors ensure it will be the star of any gathering! For another crowd favorite, check out my Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake.

Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake Ingredients

• Dive into the delightful components of this delicious cake!

For the Caramel

Coconut Sugar – Adds a deep, rich sweetness perfect for vegan caramel.
Coconut Cream – Ensures a smooth and creamy texture that complements the cake.
Sea Salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – The base for our cake, giving it structure without the need for eggs.
Cocoa Powder – Provides that rich chocolate flavor, essential for our vegan chocolate caramel cake.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavener to create a fluffy texture while keeping things eggless.
Unsweetened Applesauce – A fantastic egg substitute, adding moisture while keeping it dairy-free.
Almond Milk – Keeps the batter smooth, ensuring a moist cake without dairy.
Vegetable Oil – Adds richness and helps to keep the cake moist and tender.
Vanilla Extract – A splash enhances the overall flavor and makes each bite irresistible.

For the Vegan Frosting

Vegan Cream Cheese – Creates a smooth, luscious consistency for the frosting when mixed with caramel.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting perfectly for that delightful finish.
Cooled Caramel – Incorporate this for an extra layer of flavor in your frosting.

Feel ready to gather all these ingredients and craft a delicious vegan chocolate caramel cake that the whole family will love? Let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake

Step 1: Prepare Caramel
Begin by making two batches of vegan caramel. In a saucepan, combine coconut sugar and coconut cream over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Allow it to boil for about 5–7 minutes, then remove from heat and add a pinch of sea salt. Let the caramel cool completely in a bowl while you work on the cake batter.

Step 2: Mix Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Add the wet ingredients: unsweetened applesauce, almond milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and free of lumps, ensuring a delightful consistency for your Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake.

Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you pour the batter into a greased 9-inch cake pan. Gently spread the mixture evenly and place it in the oven. Bake for approximately 33 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should spring back slightly when touched.

Step 4: Cool
Once done baking, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Ensure the cake is fully cooled before proceeding to frost to maintain the integrity of the Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake.

Step 5: Frosting Application
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled vegan caramel with vegan cream cheese and powdered sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy. Ensure the mixture is at room temperature to maintain the right texture. Frost the top and sides of the cooled cake evenly, allowing that delicious caramel flavor to shine through.

Step 6: Serve
Slice the Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake and serve it on a beautiful platter. Each slice reveals gooey layers of flavor, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying alone. Get ready to revel in the decadent taste and rich texture that makes this cake an irresistible treat for any occasion!

Make Ahead Options

Planning ahead makes things so much easier, and this One Bowl MOIST Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake is no exception! You can prepare the vegan caramel up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep its rich flavor intact. Additionally, the cake itself can be baked a day ahead—allow it to cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap to prevent any drying out. For the frosting, you can mix the cooled caramel into the vegan cream cheese and keep it refrigerated for about 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just frost your cake and enjoy the same delicious, indulgent flavors without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with One Bowl MOIST Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake

Indulging in a slice of this rich, gooey cake creates a desire for delightful accompaniments that elevate the experience even further.

Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream:
The creamy richness of vegan vanilla ice cream complements the cake’s chocolate and caramel layers while adding a refreshing contrast.
Fresh Berries:
Bright, juicy berries like raspberries or strawberries offer a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
Whipped Coconut Cream:
Light and airy, whipped coconut cream provides a cloud-like texture that pairs perfectly with the cake’s density and richness.
Coffee or Espresso:
A warm cup of invigorating coffee enhances the deep chocolate flavors, making your dessert experience cozy and inviting.
Almond Milk Latte:
This dairy-free drink adds a smooth, nutty flavor that harmonizes with the cake’s richness, offering an indulgent yet healthful pairing.
Vegan Caramel Sauce Drizzle:
For the ultimate decadence, drizzle extra vegan caramel sauce on top. It amplifies the cake’s flavors and adds a luxurious touch.

Each of these pairings not only complements the indulgent qualities of the Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake but also creates a delightful spread that your guests will cherish just as much as the cake itself!

Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this cake recipe to suit your taste buds!

Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a delightful crunch. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate and caramel.
Fruity Twist: Fold in 1 cup of fresh raspberries or cherries just before baking. Their tartness adds a bright contrast to the sweet flavors of the cake.
Chocolate Fudge: Swap the vegan caramel frosting for a chocolate ganache made with dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream. It makes for an extra indulgent treat every chocolate lover dreams of.
Spicy Heat: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder in the batter for a surprising hint of warmth. This will elevate the chocolate flavor and leave your taste buds tingling.
Maple Sweetened: Replace coconut sugar with pure maple syrup for a unique twist. The flavor is subtly different and luscious, with a hint of earthy sweetness that complements the cake.
Coffee Infusion: Stir in 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the batter or frosting for a rich mocha flavor that enhances the chocolate. It’s a small change that makes a big difference.
Lemon Zing: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the frosting for a refreshing, zesty kick. This brightens the dessert wonderfully and pairs interestingly with the caramel.
Layered Elegance: Why not turn this cake into a multi-layer masterpiece? Bake two or three layers and alternate them with caramel and frosting for a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.

Get creative! The possibilities are endless and will surely make this Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake a new family favorite. For more delicious twists, consider trying the Chocolate Caramel Dump for a laid-back dessert option or explore the delight of my Caramel Brownie Cheesecake.

Expert Tips for Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake

Cool Caramel First: Always let the caramel cool entirely before mixing it with frosting. This preserves the frosting’s texture and flavor in your Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake.
Don’t Overmix: To achieve that moist texture, mix your batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your almond milk and applesauce are at room temperature for a smoother batter, resulting in a tender cake.
Check Your Oven Temperature: Every oven is different. Always check for doneness a few minutes early to prevent drying out your cake.
Add Flavor Depth: For an extra dimension, consider adding a teaspoon of instant coffee to the batter—it elevates the chocolate flavor wonderfully!

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake

Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before covering to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, remove the cake from the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Reheating: If you’d like to enjoy a warm slice, microwave on low power in 20-second intervals until warm, but be mindful not to overheat, as this can dry out the moist, delicious Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake.

One Bowl MOIST Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this cake?
Absolutely! Use fresh coconut cream for the best results. Make sure the can is well-shaken and doesn’t contain any lumps, as this will ensure a smooth caramel. For the flour and cocoa powder, check the expiration dates; stale ingredients can impact the moisture and flavor.

How should I store the Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. If you need a longer duration, refrigerate it, where it can last up to a week. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before covering to avoid unwanted moisture.

Can I freeze the cake, and how do I do it?
Yes, indeed! For freezing, slice the whole cake or keep it whole based on your future needs. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or aluminum foil. This method protects the cake from freezer burn, allowing you to enjoy it up to 3 months later. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving.

What if my caramel turns out too hard?
If your caramel sets too hard, don’t worry! You can gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash more coconut cream or a tiny bit of almond milk to loosen it up. Stir continuously until you reach a spreadable consistency. Remember, patience is key—slow and low heat is your friend here!

Is this cake suitable for those with allergies?
Very! The ingredients in this Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake are free from dairy and eggs, making it safe for those with such allergies. However, always double-check for nut allergies when using almond milk or nut-based cream cheese alternatives. For nut-free options, soy or oat milk can work wonderfully!

Can my pet eat this cake?
It’s best to avoid sharing desserts with pets, especially caramel or sugary items. Cocoa can be toxic to dogs and other pets, so it’s always wise to enjoy this indulgent Vegan Chocolate Caramel Cake solely for yourself and your human friends!