Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating the most delightful and incredibly easy One-Bowl Vegan Apple Spice Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting. This isn’t just another cake; it’s a celebration of heartwarming autumn flavors, crafted to bring joy with minimal effort. Imagine a cake so irresistibly fluffy and tender, studded with perfectly spiced fresh apple pieces throughout, all crowned with a luscious dairy-free cream cheese frosting and a generous drizzle of homemade vegan caramel. And the best part? You don’t even need to peel the apples! This recipe is designed for simplicity, allowing you to whip up a show-stopping dessert that tastes like a slice of heaven, straight from a cozy fall festival.
While pumpkin often claims the spotlight during the holiday season, especially with favorites like a one-bowl vegan pumpkin cake, it’s time to shine a light on this equally magnificent vegan apple spice cake. It offers all the comforting flavors of a homemade vegan apple pie, but in a cake form, generously adorned with a silky, homemade vegan caramel sauce and a smooth dairy-free cream cheese frosting that is truly drool-worthy. This cake perfectly captures the essence of fall baking without any of the fuss, making it an instant classic for any occasion.
One of the most innovative aspects of this recipe is that it completely bypasses the tedious task of peeling apples. Many apple-centric desserts, even seemingly easy ones like apple crisp, typically require you to remove the apple skins. Not here! This method not only saves precious time but also eliminates those unappealing large apple chunks that can sometimes resemble potatoes. The secret lies in a simple technique: blending the apples in a food processor. This ingenious step ensures that you get delightful bits of fresh apple distributed evenly throughout every single bite, infusing the cake with natural sweetness and texture without relying on applesauce.
This vegan apple spice cake truly redefines easy baking. It’s a symphony of warming spices, sweet apples, and decadent caramel, creating a flavor profile that will transport you straight to a crisp autumn day at a vibrant fall festival. The tender crumb and moist texture make it an irresistible treat that’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply a cozy evening at home. Its one-bowl preparation also significantly streamlines the cleanup process, allowing you more time to savor the delicious results and less time scrubbing dishes.
Essential Ingredients for Your Vegan Apple Spice Cake
Crafting delicious vegan cakes is often simpler than traditional baking, thanks to the straightforward nature of plant-based ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this apple spice cake so exceptional:
- Flour: For the best results, opt for all-purpose flour. If you require a gluten-free option, a reliable 1:1 gluten-free baking blend is recommended. Personally, I’ve had great success with King Arthur Measure for Measure gluten-free flour. When using gluten-free flour, it’s always best to measure by gram for precision. You can also experiment with oat flour for a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
- Granulated & Light Brown Sugar: The combination of these two sugars is key. Granulated sugar provides foundational sweetness, while light brown sugar adds a deeper, richer flavor and contributes significantly to the cake’s moist, tender crumb. This pairing creates a balanced sweetness that complements the apples and spices beautifully.
- Warming Apple Pie Spices: This cake embraces the comforting flavors of fall with a blend of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and nutmeg. While this specific combination creates a complex and aromatic profile, you can simplify it by using just cinnamon for a classic taste. Adjust the spice levels to your personal preference for a truly customized cake.
- Leavening Agents: Baking powder and baking soda are the unsung heroes of this recipe, working in harmony to give the cake its desirable fluffy and light texture. They react with the vegan buttermilk and yogurt to create air pockets, ensuring a beautifully risen cake.
- Dairy-Free Yogurt: This ingredient acts as a fantastic vegan egg replacement, providing essential moisture and a superior texture compared to flax eggs. Any plain, unsweetened vegan yogurt will work, but I particularly enjoy brands like Forager Project for its creamy consistency.
- Homemade Vegan Buttermilk: Easily prepared by combining any dairy-free milk (such as soy, almond, or oat milk) with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. This acidic mixture curdles the milk slightly, creating a tender crumb and activating the baking soda for optimal rise.
- Vegan Butter & Neutral Oil: A strategic blend of fats contributes to both flavor and moisture. Vegan butter imparts a rich, decadent taste, while a neutral-flavored liquid oil, like avocado or olive oil, ensures the cake remains incredibly moist and tender. This dual approach guarantees a perfectly balanced texture.
- Honeycrisp Apples: These are my top choice for baking due to their exceptional sweetness and firm texture, which holds up wonderfully during baking. The innovative step of grating or blitzing the apples in a food processor ensures that every bite is bursting with fresh apple flavor, distributing them seamlessly throughout the batter.
- Dairy-Free Cream Cheese Frosting: The ideal topping for this cake, offering a delightful tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the rich apple and caramel flavors. You can even elevate it further by using homemade vegan cream cheese for an extra special touch.
- Salted Vegan Caramel Sauce: While optional, this addition is highly recommended, especially for holiday presentations or when you want to impress. The salty-sweet caramel beautifully complements the creamy frosting and the natural tartness of the apples, adding another layer of luxurious flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Vegan Apple Spice Cake
This recipe is designed for simplicity and incredible flavor. You’ll find the full ingredient quantities and detailed instructions in the recipe card at the end of this article. For now, let’s walk through the easy steps to create this magnificent cake.
Baking Your Cake as a Layered Masterpiece
While this recipe is primarily designed for a convenient sheet cake, it is incredibly versatile and can certainly be adapted into a stunning layer cake. In fact, the original concept for this recipe was for a beautiful three-layer 8-inch cake. However, after gathering feedback from my wonderful community on Instagram, the consensus strongly favored a simple sheet cake format due to its ease and accessibility. Rest assured, whether you prefer a single-layer sheet cake or an elegant tiered dessert, this recipe delivers exceptional results.
If you’re aiming for a three-layer 6-inch cake, a slight adjustment to the ingredient quantities is necessary. I recommend reducing the recipe to two-thirds of its original size. Here are the adjusted measurements for a smaller, yet equally impressive, layer cake:
- 2/3 cup (160 mL) vegan buttermilk
- 2 1/2 cup (300 g) all-purpose flour (or 512 g gluten-free 1:1 baking flour + 1 tbsp arrowroot or cornstarch)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/3 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp apple pie spice
- 1/8 tsp sea salt
- 2/3 cup (140 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup (77 g) salted vegan butter, melted and cooled to room temperature
- 1/3 cup (80 mL) avocado oil or other neutral cooking oil
- 1/3 cup (67 g) dairy-free yogurt, at room temperature
- 1 honeycrisp apple, cored and blended
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
To assemble a layer cake, simply divide the batter evenly among your prepared cake pans (typically 6-inch rounds). Bake for a slightly shorter duration, checking for doneness with a toothpick. Once cooled, spread a generous layer of vegan cream cheese frosting between each cake layer, followed by a drizzle of vegan caramel, then frost the entire cake. The final touch of caramel and fresh apple slices creates an exquisite presentation that’s perfect for any special occasion. Whether you opt for a casual sheet cake or a dramatic layer cake, this recipe guarantees a delicious and beautiful outcome.
Optimal Storage for Your Vegan Apple Spice Cake
Ensuring your delicious vegan caramel apple cake remains fresh and delightful is straightforward with these storage tips. Proper storage is key to extending the life of your baked goods and keeping them tasting as fantastic as they did on day one.
For any leftovers after serving, the best approach is to store the cake fully covered. A specialized cake storage bin is ideal as it protects the frosting and prevents drying. Alternatively, an airtight container works perfectly, especially if you slice the cake beforehand to fit it more easily. This cake maintains its quality at room temperature for up to one day. However, given the cream cheese frosting, I highly recommend refrigerating it. When stored in the fridge, your cake will remain wonderfully fresh for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy slices throughout the week.
If you wish to prepare this cake well in advance or save individual servings for later, it freezes exceptionally well. Simply slice the cake into desired portions, wrap each slice securely in plastic wrap, and then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. The cake can be stored in the freezer for up to three months without compromising its flavor or texture. To thaw, just transfer the frozen slices to the refrigerator overnight. This method makes it incredibly convenient to have a delicious vegan treat on hand whenever a craving strikes, or for unexpected guests.
Helpful Baking Tips for Success
- Pacing Your Baking Process: There’s no need to rush and complete this cake in a single session. In fact, breaking it down into stages can make the baking experience more enjoyable and less stressful. Consider baking the cake layers on one day, then wrapping them tightly and storing them in the fridge. On the following day, you can prepare the frosting and assemble the cake. Baking should be a fun and relaxing activity, so take your time and enjoy each step!
- Navigating Ingredient Substitutions: While baking is an art that encourages creativity, when it comes to substitutions, it’s often best to stick to the tried and tested. Unless a specific substitution has been explicitly mentioned within the recipe or notes, I haven’t personally tested it and therefore cannot guarantee the outcome. You are always welcome to experiment with different ingredients, but please be aware that the final result might vary from the intended texture and flavor profile.
- Ensure Ingredients are at Room Temperature: For best results, especially with the vegan butter and dairy-free yogurt, ensure these ingredients are at room temperature. This helps them cream together smoothly with the sugars and fats, resulting in a more uniform and well-emulsified batter, which contributes to a lighter, more tender cake.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you add the flour and vegan buttermilk, mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated into the wet. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a tough and dense cake. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and often preferred.
- Cool the Cake Completely: Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to frosting. Ensure your cake is completely cooled before applying the cream cheese frosting or drizzling the caramel. If the cake is still warm, the frosting will melt and slide off, and the caramel will become too runny, leading to a messy outcome.
You are going to absolutely adore this vegan apple spice cake recipe! Its delightful combination of sweet apples, warming spices, and rich caramel cream cheese frosting makes it an unforgettable dessert. If you decide to bake this marvelous cake, please share your experience by leaving a comment and a rating below. Your feedback not only helps others discover this incredible recipe but also inspires me to keep creating more delicious plant-based treats.
As always, I am thrilled to see your beautiful culinary creations! Be sure to tag me on Instagram and Pinterest when you share your photos. Happy apple spice cake baking!
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If you make this recipe, please be sure to leave a comment and a rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ below. This helps others to find the recipes! As always, I absolutely love to see your beautiful creations on Instagram and Pinterest, so be sure to tag me there as well!
One Bowl Easy Vegan Apple Spice Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
- Author: BRITT BERLIN
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This fluffy and soft vegan apple spice cake comes together in one bowl and has sweetly spiced fresh apple pieces throughout! Topped with a silky dairy free cream cheese frosting and caramel, and no need to even peel the apples- it’s so easy!
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 mL) vegan buttermilk
- 3 2/3 cup (450 g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 baking flour + 1 tbsp arrowroot or cornstarch)
- 3 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp apple pie spice*
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (150 g) light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (113 g) salted vegan butter, melted and cooled to room temperature
- 1/2 cup (120 mL) avocado oil or neutral cooking oil
- 1/2 cup (100 g) dairy-free yogurt, room temperature
- 2 honeycrisp apples, cored and blended
- 1 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 batch vegan cream cheese frosting
- 1 batch vegan salted caramel
Instructions
- Preparation is Key: Begin by thoroughly reading through all instructions before you start baking. This ensures a smooth and successful process.
- Preheat & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch sheet cake pan, then line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Prepare your vegan buttermilk by combining apple cider vinegar with unsweetened dairy-free milk and setting it aside to curdle slightly.
- Blend the Apples: Wash and dry your honeycrisp apples. Core them and slice into large chunks (no need to peel!). Place the apple chunks into a food processor or high-speed blender and pulse until they are finely grated into a pulp. Set aside.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, melted and cooled vegan butter, avocado or cooking oil, room temperature dairy-free yogurt, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
- Combine with Dry Ingredients: Add the finely blended apples to the wet mixture. Next, sprinkle in the baking powder, baking soda, apple pie spices, and sea salt. Whisk everything together until just combined. Finally, add the all-purpose flour and the prepared vegan buttermilk. Whisk gently, just until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated into the wet, being careful not to overmix. A few small lumps are perfectly acceptable.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter evenly into your greased and lined sheet cake pan. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cooling Process: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After this initial cooling, carefully transfer the cake, using the parchment paper overhang, to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. It must be entirely cool before frosting.
- Prepare Caramel (while cake bakes/cools): While your cake is baking or cooling, this is the perfect time to prepare your vegan salted caramel sauce. Ensure the caramel also cools completely to room temperature before applying it to the cake; otherwise, it will melt the frosting.
- Make the Frosting: When the cake is fully cooled and you’re ready to frost, prepare your vegan cream cheese frosting. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, or in a large bowl with a hand mixer, cream together softened vegan butter and vegan cream cheese until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, continuing to beat until you achieve a smooth, fluffy frosting consistency.
- Frost and Drizzle: Scoop the luscious vegan cream cheese frosting onto the completely cooled cake. Spread it evenly to the edges. For an extra touch of indulgence, generously drizzle the cooled vegan salted caramel sauce over the frosted cake.
- Serve & Store: Slice the cake into individual portions and serve immediately. Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain its freshness and quality.
Layer Cake Assembly (Optional):
If you opted to bake this as a layer cake:
- Place the first cooled cake layer onto a cake board or serving plate. Spread approximately 3/4 cup of frosting evenly to the edges, then drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Carefully place the second cake layer on top and repeat the frosting and caramel layering.
- Add the third and final cake layer. Frost the entire cake – top and sides – with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
- To help the frosting set, place the assembled cake in the fridge for about 20 minutes. Before serving, decorate with any remaining caramel sauce or fresh apple slices for a beautiful presentation.
Notes
- Gluten-Free Option: If you are making this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with 450 grams of a reliable 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. My personal recommendation is King Arthur Measure for Measure gluten-free flour for consistent results.
- Homemade Apple Pie Spice: If you don’t have a pre-made apple pie spice blend, you can easily create your own aromatic mix. Combine 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom, and 1/4 teaspoon of allspice. This homemade blend will infuse your cake with rich, comforting flavors.