Are you looking for a moist, flavorful, and completely plant-based dessert? This vegan apple coffee cake is the perfect choice! Packed with tender apples, warm spices, and a crunchy streusel topping, this cake is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack with coffee.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- The benefits of vegan baking
- Key ingredients for the perfect vegan apple coffee cake
- Step-by-step instructions for making this delicious treat
- Tips for storage and serving
- Nutritional benefits of this dessert
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan baker or just starting, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees amazing results.
Why Choose Vegan Baking?
Vegan baking has gained popularity due to its health benefits, environmental sustainability, and ethical considerations. Here’s why you should try this vegan apple coffee cake:
1. Healthier Ingredients
- No cholesterol or saturated fats from butter and eggs.
- Uses whole-food ingredients like apples, whole wheat flour (optional), and plant-based milk.
2. Environmentally Friendly
- Dairy and egg production have a high carbon footprint. Vegan baking reduces environmental impact.
3. Allergy-Friendly
- Free from eggs and dairy, making it suitable for those with allergies or lactose intolerance.
4. Just as Delicious!
- With the right substitutes, vegan cakes are just as moist and flavorful as traditional ones.
Key Ingredients for Vegan Apple Coffee Cake
To make this cake soft, moist, and full of flavor, you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- Flour – All-purpose or whole wheat pastry flour for a healthier option.
- Sugar – Organic cane sugar or coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Plant-Based Milk – Almond, oat, or soy milk for moisture.
- Apples – Fresh, diced apples add natural sweetness and texture.
- Oil – Coconut oil or vegetable oil for richness.
- Vinegar + Baking Soda – A vegan alternative to eggs for fluffiness.
- Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Warm spices that enhance the apple flavor.
For the Streusel Topping:
- Flour + Sugar – Creates a crumbly texture.
- Vegan Butter or Coconut Oil – Binds the streusel.
- Cinnamon – Adds extra warmth.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Vegan Apple Coffee Cake
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 9-12
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (or whole wheat pastry flour)
- ¾ cup (150g) organic cane sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 1 cup (240ml) plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)
- ⅓ cup (80ml) melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups (180g) diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
For the Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup (60g) flour
- ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 3 tbsp vegan butter (or coconut oil), cold
Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare the Pan
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8×8-inch (20x20cm) baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Streusel Topping
- In a small bowl, mix flour, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Add cold vegan butter (or coconut oil) and use your fingers to crumble it into small pieces. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, mix plant-based milk, oil, vinegar, and vanilla.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
- Fold in the diced apples.
4. Assemble & Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips
Best Ways to Serve:
- Warm with a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce.
- Paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Topped with coconut yogurt or dairy-free ice cream.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
- Refrigerator: Stays fresh for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutritional Benefits of Vegan Apple Coffee Cake
This dessert isn’t just delicious—it also offers some health benefits:
- Fiber-Rich – Apples and whole wheat flour (if used) provide dietary fiber for digestion.
- Lower in Saturated Fat – No butter or eggs means less unhealthy fat.
- Natural Sweetness – Apples reduce the need for excess sugar.
- Vitamins & Antioxidants – Apples contain vitamin C and antioxidants.
Final Thoughts
This vegan apple coffee cake is a must-try for anyone who loves moist, spiced desserts. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a healthier cake option, this recipe won’t disappoint!
Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
FAQ
1. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend (like almond or oat flour).
2. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Absolutely! Pears or peaches work well too.
3. How do I make the cake oil-free?
Replace oil with applesauce (½ cup) for a lighter version.
4. Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! Bake it a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature.
