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Easy Vegan German Chocolate Cake

Irresistibly Moist Easy Vegan German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Enjoy this Easy Vegan German Chocolate Cake, a delightful twist on a classic dessert that's indulgent and guilt-free.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: German
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 cup Vegan Buttermilk Make by adding 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice to plant-based milk.
  • 3 cups All-Purpose Flour Replace with gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for gluten-free version.
  • 1 cup Cocoa Powder Use Dutch-processed cocoa for richer taste.
  • 1 tbsp Baking Powder Can be swapped with baking soda.
  • 1 cup Sugar Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil Applesauce can be used for a lower-fat option.
  • 1 cup Hot Coffee Optional; omit for caffeine-free option.
For the Frosting
  • 2 cups Coconut Flakes For texture; replace pecans with extra coconut for nut allergies.
  • 1 cup Pecans Can substitute with slivered almonds or omit for nut-free.
  • 1/2 cup Vegan Butter Coconut oil can be used instead.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • spatula
  • Cake pans
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegan buttermilk and hot coffee until smooth. Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and baking powder. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix for a light cake.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease three 8-inch cake pans. Divide the prepared batter evenly among the three pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. While the cakes cool, melt the vegan butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the coconut flakes and pecans, cooking until the mixture thickens and bubbles slightly, about 5–7 minutes.
  4. Prepare your vegan chocolate ganache by combining dairy-free chocolate and heated plant-based milk, stirring until smooth. Next, prepare the chocolate buttercream by whipping together softened vegan butter, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar until creamy.
  5. Once the cakes have completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of coconut pecan frosting on top, followed by a drizzle of ganache. Add the second layer and repeat. Finish with the third layer on top and frost the top and sides with chocolate buttercream.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for smoother batter. Don't overmix to keep the cake light. Check for doneness early, and ensure the cakes cool completely before frosting.

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