One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that perfectly combines the nutty flavor of almonds with the tartness of raspberries. Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or simply a sweet indulgence, this cake stands out with its stunning layers and creamy frosting. It’s not just delicious—it’s also vegan, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Plus, the simplicity of making it in one bowl means less cleanup and more time to enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just one bowl and simple steps, this cake is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of almond and raspberry creates a unique taste that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Occasion: Whether it’s a party or a casual gathering, this cake fits right in.
• Beautiful Presentation: Four layers adorned with fresh raspberries and almonds make it a showstopper.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Made with vegan cream cheese frosting, everyone can enjoy this scrumptious dessert.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 2 x 8-inch cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Cooling rack
• Cake turntable (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Cake Pans: Ensure even baking and easy layer separation.
• Whisk or Electric Mixer: Helps achieve a light texture by thoroughly mixing ingredients.
• Cooling Rack: Allows air circulation for even cooling and prevents sogginess.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups (300 mL) vegan buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cup (300 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted vegan butter, melted and cooled to room temperature
• 1 cup (240 g) dairy free yogurt, room temperature
• 2 tbsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp almond extract
• 1 1/3 cups (170 g) almonds, ground into a flour
• 2 1/2 cups (325 g) all-purpose flour (or gluten free 1:1 baking flour + 1 tbsp arrowroot or cornstarch)
• 3 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1 cup raspberry jam
• 2 batches vegan cream cheese frosting
• 1 cup raspberries, for decoration
• 1 cup crushed almonds, for decoration

How to Make One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper. Measure out all ingredients beforehand to keep the process smooth.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the granulated sugar, melted vegan butter, dairy-free yogurt, vanilla extract, and almond extract until combined.
2. Gradually add in the ground almonds, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt.
3. Slowly pour in the vegan buttermilk while whisking until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans:
1. Bake for about 40–42 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Remove from oven and let cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 4: Cool and Slice Layers

Allow cakes to cool completely. Carefully slice each layer in half horizontally so you have four layers total.

Step 5: Make Frosting

Prepare your two batches of vegan cream cheese frosting as per your recipe or preferred method.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

On a cake turntable:
1. Place one layer on top of your serving plate.
2. Spread about half a cup of frosting on top.
3. Create an edge with frosting to hold raspberry jam in place; add about one-third cup raspberry jam in the center.
4. Repeat this process for each layer until all are stacked.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once assembled, apply a crumb coat around the entire cake:
1. Chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes.
2. After chilling, frost with remaining cream cheese frosting on top and sides.
3. Decorate with fresh raspberries and crushed almonds before serving.

Enjoy your stunning One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This delightful One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply indulging in a sweet treat, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Raspberries: Fresh raspberries add a burst of tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Sliced Strawberries: Sweet, juicy strawberries provide a lovely contrast and vibrant colors on the plate.

Serve with Plant-Based Ice Cream

• Coconut Ice Cream: Creamy coconut ice cream pairs beautifully with the almond flavors in the cake.
• Vanilla Soy Ice Cream: A classic choice that enhances the overall dessert experience without overpowering it.

Drizzle with Berry Sauce

• Homemade Raspberry Sauce: A quick blend of fresh raspberries and a bit of sugar makes a tangy drizzle that elevates each slice.
• Blueberry Coulis: This sweet and slightly tart sauce adds an extra layer of flavor when drizzled over the cake.

Add Whipped Coconut Cream

• Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this dairy-free topping adds richness without detracting from the cake’s flavors.

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How to Perfect One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake is a showstopper, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your vegan butter, yogurt, and buttermilk are at room temperature aids in creating a smooth batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently combining wet and dry ingredients prevents dense cakes; stop mixing as soon as there are no dry flour patches.
• Let Cakes Cool Completely: Cooling layers fully before frosting helps maintain structure and prevents melting frosting.
• Create an Even Crumb Coat: The initial layer of frosting seals in crumbs; chilling it before final decoration allows for a cleaner finish.
• Use Quality Jam: Opt for high-quality raspberry jam for authentic flavor that shines through in each bite.
• Decorate Just Before Serving: Adding raspberries and almonds right before serving keeps them fresh and visually appealing.

Best Side Dishes for One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad balances the sweetness of the cake with lightness.
2. Vegan Cheese Platter: An assortment of plant-based cheeses offers savory bites that complement the dessert.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies provide a smoky flavor contrast to the sweet cake.
4. Savory Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad made with quinoa, herbs, and lemon dressing enhances your meal’s nutrition.
5. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits can be a refreshing palate cleanser after dessert.
6. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas serve as a healthy snack or side dish to round out your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the outcome of your cake.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Use proper tools to measure ingredients; too much or too little can drastically change the cake’s structure.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.
• Using stale baking powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise. Check expiration dates regularly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap the cake in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free 1:1 baking flour plus arrowroot or cornstarch as specified in the recipe.

How do I store leftover cake?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for up to three months.

Can I use other fruits instead of raspberries?

Absolutely! You can experiment with strawberries, blueberries, or even peaches to give your cake a unique twist.

What is vegan cream cheese made from?

Vegan cream cheese usually contains nuts (like cashews), coconut oil, and nutritional yeast, creating a delicious dairy-free alternative.

Final Thoughts

The One Bowl Vegan Almond Raspberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only a delightful treat but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it by adding different fruits or spices. Try this recipe today for a beautiful dessert that everyone will love!