Stepping into my kitchen today, the sweet tang of raspberries filled the air, wrapping me in nostalgia. I was on a mission to create the ultimate Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake, and trust me, this recipe is a game-changer! With its moist texture and vibrant bursts of tart-sweet raspberries, this cake is not just a dessert; it’s a versatile delight that can grace your breakfast table or satisfy your sweet tooth at any time of the day. Quick to whip up and crafted in just one bowl, it promises a guilt-free indulgence without refined sugar. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply looking for a healthier dessert option, you’ll find yourself reaching for a second slice! Ready to embark on this delicious journey with me?

Why make a gluten-free cake?

Deliciousness at Its Peak: This Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake is not just a treat for those avoiding gluten; it’s an experience that everyone can enjoy. The moist, fluffy texture is a delightful surprise, resembling traditional cakes while being perfectly compliant with gluten-free and vegan diets.

Natural Sweetness: With no refined sugar, this cake uses maple syrup to amp up the flavor without guilt. It’s an ideal choice for health-conscious dessert lovers!

Easy One-Bowl Wonder: Say goodbye to complicated baking processes—this recipe is super easy, requiring just one bowl for prep! You can spend more time enjoying your creation and less time cleaning up.

Adaptable Delight: Want to mix it up? Feel free to swap in your favorite fruits or even experiment with toppings like flaked almonds or a scoop of vegan whipped cream for that extra touch—perfect alongside a slice of Peanut Butter Cake.

Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: This cake isn’t just a personal delight; it’s sure to wow your friends and family at gatherings, making it a go-to for any occasion!

Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for this irresistible treat!

For the Cake

  • Coconut Oil – Provides moisture and richness; substitute with olive or vegetable oil if desired.
  • Unsweetened Almond Milk – Acts as the liquid base; feel free to use any plant-based milk.
  • Lemon Juice – Activates baking soda for fluffiness; 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar works as a substitute.
  • Maple Syrup – Adds natural sweetness; this is an excellent choice for a refined sugar-free treat.
  • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor for a delightful aroma.
  • Ground Almonds (Almond Meal) – Contributes to texture and nutty flavor; almond flour can be a suitable substitute.
  • Gluten-Free Flour Blend – This serves as the main structure; regular plain flour works if gluten isn’t a concern.
  • Baking Powder – A must-have leavening agent; make sure it’s gluten-free if necessary.
  • Bicarbonate of Soda (Baking Soda) – Works with acidic lemon juice to help the cake rise.
  • Raspberries – Provide a fresh, tart flavor; both fresh or frozen can work, but take care to avoid color bleeding.

Optional Toppings

  • Flaked Almonds – Add a delightful crunch on top.
  • Freeze-Dried Raspberries – Perfect for decoration and an extra burst of flavor!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that the heat is perfectly distributed for achieving that golden-brown exterior you’ll love. While the oven is warming up, gather your baking tin and line it with baking paper, lightly greasing the sides to help the cake release easily later.

Step 2: Melt the Coconut Oil
In a mixing bowl, melt the coconut oil until it’s fully liquid if using that type of oil. If you opted for olive or vegetable oil, skip this step. Once melted, let the oil cool slightly to avoid cooking the other ingredients. This small detail adds moisture to your Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake for that decadent texture!

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add the unsweetened almond milk, lemon juice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the bowl with melted coconut oil. Use a whisk to mix these wet ingredients until well combined, creating a smooth and inviting base for your cake. The addition of lemon juice will give a lovely zing, balancing the sweetness perfectly.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Carefully sift the gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and ground almonds into the bowl. This step ensures they are well-blended and helps create a light texture in your cake. Mix gently until everything is just combined, adding a splash more almond milk if the batter seems too thick.

Step 5: Incorporate the Raspberries
Now it’s time to fold in those vibrant raspberries! Gently add them to the batter, taking care not to crush them too much. They should remain mostly intact, promising juicy bursts of flavor in your Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake. This mixture should be thick yet scoopable and full of delicious raspberry goodness.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Pour the cake batter into your prepared baking tin, using a spatula to smooth out the top. For an added crunch and visual appeal, sprinkle flaked almonds over the surface if desired. This step not only enhances the cake’s texture but adds a beautiful look to your delightful creation!

Step 7: Bake the Cake
Slide your tin into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake; it should turn golden brown, and a skewer inserted into the center should come out clean. This will indicate that your Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake is perfectly baked and ready for cooling!

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process helps the flavors to settle and ensures a tender texture when you slice into your cake. Serve fresh, or store in the fridge wrapped in an airtight container for up to three days.

Storage Tips for Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake

  • Room Temperature: Store your cake at room temperature for up to 1 day. Keep it covered in a cake dome or under a clean kitchen towel to maintain freshness.

  • Fridge: Keep your Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help prevent it from drying out while still keeping that moist texture.

  • Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 1 month, allowing you to enjoy a delicious slice anytime!

  • Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, gently warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This revives the cake’s softness and enhances the flavors, making it feel freshly baked!

Expert Tips for Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake

  • Measure Accurately: Use a measuring jug for liquids to ensure proper ratios. Too much or too little can affect the texture of your Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake.

  • Check Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh and gluten-free to prevent flatness. Old or incorrect baking powder can lead to a gummy texture.

  • Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold in the raspberries to prevent them from bursting. Overmixing can make the cake denser, compromising its fluffy texture.

  • Cooling Matters: Let the cake cool completely before slicing. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and helps maintain its structure.

  • Experiment with Fruits: Don’t hesitate to swap raspberries for other fruits like blueberries or cherries. Each choice can bring a delightful twist to your Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake.

Make Ahead Options

These Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cakes are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine just before baking to ensure freshness. Additionally, feel free to fold in the raspberries ahead of time, but to preserve their integrity, consider adding them right before baking if you’re using frozen ones. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and pour the mixture into the greased baking tin, bake for about 30 minutes, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen! This way, you’ll have fresh, delicious cake with minimal effort during busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake?

Stepping away from the oven, the sweet and tangy aroma of raspberries fills your kitchen, inviting delightful pairings to elevate your dessert experience.

  • Vegan Whipped Cream: A dollop of this airy delight adds a creamy contrast to the cake’s fluffy texture, enhancing the raspberry flavor.
  • Fresh Berries: Serve a mix of strawberries and blueberries alongside for a burst of fresh fruitiness that complements the cake’s tartness.
  • Nutty Granola: Crumble some around the plate for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, making each bite more exciting and satisfying.

Pair this scrumptious cake with a warm cup of Chamomile Tea: The light, floral notes of the tea create a calming experience that balances the sweet, rich cake.

  • Almond Milk Latte: This creamy beverage not only blends well with the cake, but its subtle nuttiness enhances the almond flavors of your dessert.
  • Freeze-Dried Raspberries: Sprinkled on top, they offer a vibrant color and extra tartness that perfectly matches the cake whilst adding visual appeal.
  • Coconut Ice Cream: The creamy, tropical flavor provides a refreshing contrast, ensuring every bite feels indulgent yet guilt-free.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a delightful spread that celebrates your baking masterpiece!

Variations & Substitutions for Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake

Feel free to get creative with this delicious cake by tailoring it to your taste and preferences!

  • Berry Bliss: Try swapping out raspberries for strawberries or blueberries to explore new flavor profiles. Each option gives a sweet twist that brightens up the cake!

  • Citrus Burst: Replace lemon juice with orange juice for a zesty twist. The sweet citrus flavor complements the cake beautifully, adding a refreshing note.

  • Nutty Delight: Use hazelnut or pecan flour instead of ground almonds for a distinct nutty flavor profile. It brings a delightful crunch and enhances the texture!

  • Lower Fat: For a lower-fat version, substitute half of the coconut oil with unsweetened applesauce. This creates a moist cake without compromising flavor.

  • Choco-Lovers: Add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolatey version of this cake. Pairing the rich cocoa with raspberries is pure bliss!

  • Spicy Comfort: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy spice twist. This adds warmth and depth, especially perfect for chilly evenings.

  • Mix ‘n Match: Combine different fruits like peaches or mango for a delightful summer flavor. Each fruit enhances the taste, offering a vibrant palette!

  • Sugar-Free Joy: Replace maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol for a completely sugar-free treat. It ensures everyone can indulge guilt-free!

These adaptations not only allow for personal flair but bring a unique touch that can delight your taste buds. If you’re in the mood for dessert inspiration, why not whip up some Oreo Cheesecake Decadent? It’s another fantastic way to treat yourself—enjoy your baking adventure!

Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting raspberries?
Absolutely! Choose plump, firm raspberries that are brightly colored without any dark spots or mold. If you’re using frozen raspberries, make sure they are not clumped together, as this can indicate they’ve thawed and refrozen, which can affect texture and flavor in your cake.

How should I store the Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake?
The cake is best consumed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover it properly to maintain moisture and flavor. If you prefer it at room temperature, enjoy it within 1 day but remember to cover it lightly with a kitchen towel or a cake dome.

Can I freeze the cake for later?
Very much so! To freeze, wrap the Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored this way for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply let it thaw in the fridge overnight or leave it at room temperature for a couple of hours. For a fresh taste, warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds before serving!

What if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out too dense, there are a few reasons this could happen. First, ensure you’re using fresh baking powder—old leavening agents may not activate properly. Also, avoid overmixing your batter once you add the dry ingredients, as this can develop the gluten in the gluten-free flour and lead to a denser texture. Lastly, make sure you’re measuring accurately, especially with the almond milk, as too much can impact the fluffiness.

Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
While the Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake uses almond meal and almond milk, which are not suitable for those with nut allergies, you can easily make substitutions. Use sunflower seed flour instead of almond flour and replace almond milk with oat or coconut milk to cater to nut-free dietary needs. Always double-check other ingredients for cross-contamination, especially with packaged items like baking powder.

Can I use other fruits in this cake?
Absolutely! This cake is wonderfully adaptable. You can experiment with fruits like blueberries, blackberries, or even diced peaches, which all pair beautifully with the flavors in the cake. Try to maintain the same weight as the raspberries to keep the moisture balance intact, and gently fold them into the batter to avoid crushing!

Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake

Delicious Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake to Savor Guilt-Free

Enjoy the delicious Gluten-Free Vegan Raspberry Cake, a guilt-free dessert perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1/2 cup Coconut Oil Substitute with olive or vegetable oil if desired
  • 1 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk Any plant-based milk can be used
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar works as a substitute
  • 1/2 cup Maple Syrup Natural sweetener, excellent for a refined sugar-free treat
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor
  • 1 cup Ground Almonds (Almond Meal) Almond flour can be a suitable substitute
  • 1 cup Gluten-Free Flour Blend Regular plain flour works if gluten isn’t a concern
  • 2 teaspoon Baking Powder Ensure it's gluten-free
  • 1 teaspoon Bicarbonate of Soda (Baking Soda)
  • 1 cup Raspberries Fresh or frozen
Optional Toppings
  • 1/4 cup Flaked Almonds For added crunch
  • 1/4 cup Freeze-Dried Raspberries Perfect for decoration

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking tin
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare your baking tin with baking paper.
  2. Melt the coconut oil until fully liquid and let cool slightly.
  3. Mix the almond milk, lemon juice, maple syrup, and vanilla in the bowl with melted coconut oil.
  4. Sift the gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and ground almonds into the mixture.
  5. Fold in the raspberries gently, ensuring they remain intact.
  6. Pour the batter into your prepared baking tin and smooth out the top. Add flaked almonds if desired.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 95mgPotassium: 160mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 8mg

Notes

For a delightful twist, experiment with other fruits like blueberries or cherries.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!