Name: Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour ((320g)); 1 cup granulated sugar ((330g)); 1 tsp sea salt; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp baking soda; 3/4 cup avocado oil ((175ml)); 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk ((225ml)); 3 large eggs; 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract; 2 sticks vegan butter ((1 cup, 230g)); 4 to 6 cups powdered sugar ((480-600g)); 6 to 8 tbsp full-fat canned coconut milk (as needed (80-100ml)); 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 pinch sea salt

If you’re on the lookout for a delightful dessert that ticks all the boxes for being both dairy-free and gluten-free, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! This Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake is incredibly moist, fluffy, and bursting with vanilla flavor. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because you deserve a sweet treat. Let’s dive into the details of making this scrumptious cake that everyone will adore—even those who aren’t following a special diet!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake is a true crowd-pleaser. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

– **Incredibly Moist**: The combination of avocado oil and coconut milk ensures a rich texture that rivals traditional cakes.
– **Easy to Make**: With simple steps and minimal fuss, even beginner bakers can whip this up with ease.
– **Versatile**: This cake serves as a perfect base for any frosting or toppings you desire, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
– **Flavorful**: The rich vanilla flavor shines through, complemented by the creaminess of coconut milk, making it a delightful treat.

Ingredient List

To create this luscious Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups (320g) gluten-free all-purpose flour
1 cup (330g) granulated sugar
1 tsp sea salt
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
3/4 cup (175ml) avocado oil
1 cup (225ml) full-fat canned coconut milk
3 large eggs
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract

For the frosting:

2 sticks (1 cup, 230g) vegan butter
4 to 6 cups (480-600g) powdered sugar
6 to 8 tbsp (80-100ml) full-fat canned coconut milk, as needed
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Pinch sea salt

Prep & Cook Tools

Gather these essential tools to help you create your Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake:

Mixing bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
Whisk: To ensure all the ingredients are well-blended.
Spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of the bowls.
Cake pans: Two 9-inch round pans work best for layering.
Oven: Preheat to ensure your cake rises perfectly.

Directions: Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your two 9-inch round cake pans with gluten-free flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, sea salt, baking powder, and baking soda until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the avocado oil, full-fat coconut milk, eggs, and pure vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not over-mix; a few lumps are okay!

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the vegan butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Pour in the full-fat coconut milk, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more coconut milk or powdered sugar as needed.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out as desired.

Step 9: Decorate and Serve

Feel free to get creative with decorations! You can add fresh fruit, edible flowers, or sprinkles. Slice, serve, and enjoy your Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake!

International Equivalents

If you’re cooking from different parts of the world, here are some equivalents to help you out:

1 cup = 240 ml
1 tsp = 5 ml
1 tbsp = 15 ml
1 oz = 28.35 g

Missteps & Fixes

Even seasoned bakers can have mishaps in the kitchen. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

If your cake sinks in the middle, it may have been underbaked. Ensure a toothpick comes out clean before removing from the oven.
For a dry cake, check your measurements—too much flour can lead to dryness. Use the spoon and level method for best results.
If your frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency.
For a too-sweet frosting, add a pinch of sea salt to balance the flavors.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

To keep your Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake fresh and delicious:

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
To freeze, wrap each layer in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting or serving.

Common Qs About Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake

Can I replace avocado oil with another oil?

Yes! You can use melted coconut oil or vegetable oil as alternatives. Just ensure they are dairy-free and gluten-free.

How can I make this cake chocolate-flavored?

To make a chocolate version, substitute 1/2 cup of gluten-free flour with unsweetened cocoa powder. You may need to adjust the sugar slightly based on your taste preferences.

Can I use a different type of milk instead of coconut milk?

Absolutely! Almond milk or oat milk can work well, but keep in mind that they might alter the texture slightly. Full-fat options will yield the best results.

Is this cake suitable for kids?

Yes! This Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake is kid-friendly and makes for a great treat for birthday parties or school celebrations!

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have everything you need to create your very own Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! This cake promises to delight palates and create smiles all around. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with family and friends. Happy baking!