It’s time to celebrate another year of life, love, and delicious treats! Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for some plant-based inspiration, we’ve got you covered with these 18 decadent vegetarian birthday cake recipes that are simply irresistible. From classic vanilla bean sponge cake with buttercream frosting to rich chocolate avocado cake with coconut whipped cream, our collection of mouthwatering desserts is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
With a range of flavors and textures to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect cake to make your birthday boy or girl feel special. And the best part? Each recipe is carefully crafted to be vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can indulge in the celebration without worrying about dietary restrictions.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through our top 18 picks for vegetarian birthday cakes, each one more tempting than the last. So go ahead, grab your apron, and get ready to bake your way into someone’s heart.
Classic Vanilla Bean Sponge Cake with Buttercream Frosting
This traditional sponge cake recipe yields a light, fluffy, and moist cake infused with the sweetness of vanilla beans. Pair it with our rich buttercream frosting for a timeless dessert combination.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the frosting:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 3/4 cups (325g) powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until pale yellow.
3. Whisk in flour and salt. Gradually add melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely. Spread buttercream frosting on top of one cake, then place the second cake on top.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Rich Chocolate Avocado Cake with Coconut Whipped Cream
This rich and moist cake combines the creamy texture of avocados with the deep flavor of dark chocolate, topped with a light and fluffy coconut whipped cream. Perfect for special occasions or as a indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 1/2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree avocados until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add melted coconut oil and avocado puree to the dry ingredients; mix until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before frosting with coconut whipped cream (whip chilled heavy cream with unsweetened shredded coconut until stiff peaks form).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Brighten up your day with this refreshing Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake, topped with a tangy and creamy Cream Cheese Frosting. This sweet treat is perfect for springtime celebrations or any occasion that calls for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together wet ingredients.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir in blueberries.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with Cream Cheese Frosting (see below).
Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
3. Add vanilla extract; beat until smooth.
Carrot Cake with Walnuts and Maple Glaze
Moist and flavorful, this carrot cake recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, topped with a rich maple glaze. Perfect for any occasion or simply as a treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– Maple glaze ingredients: 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, carrots, and walnuts. Add dry ingredients and mix until combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before glazing with maple syrup and powdered sugar mixture.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Velvet Beetroot Cake with Cashew Frosting
Experience the bold flavors of beetroot and cashews in this unique cake recipe, perfect for adventurous bakers.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup beetroot puree
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 1 cup cashews
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine beetroot puree, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and whisk until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Frosting:
1. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours.
2. Drain and blend with softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Assemble the cake by spreading frosting on top of one cake layer and sandwiching with another.
Matcha Green Tea Cake with White Chocolate Ganache
Experience the perfect harmony of Japanese-inspired flavors and rich textures in this delectable Matcha Green Tea Cake topped with a velvety White Chocolate Ganache.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the ganache:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients, then add eggs one at a time, followed by butter and matcha powder.
3. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow cake to cool completely.
5. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Stir in heavy cream until smooth.
7. Pour ganache over cooled cake and serve.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Banana Walnut Cake with Cinnamon Buttercream
This scrumptious cake combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the crunch of walnuts, topped with a creamy cinnamon buttercream frosting. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– Cinnamon Buttercream (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
4. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
5. Stir in chopped walnuts and flour mixture.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cinnamon Buttercream:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 2-3 tbsp heavy cream
Mix all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency as needed.
Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl
Warm up to the flavors of fall with this moist and aromatic Pumpkin Spice Cake, swirled with a tangy cream cheese filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Cream cheese filling (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Beat until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Prepare cream cheese filling (below).
7. Dollop cream cheese mixture on top of one cake layer, then place the other layer on top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Filling:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract. Spread on top of one cake layer before assembling.
Strawberry Shortcake with Fresh Coconut Cream
Elevate the classic strawberry shortcake by adding a creamy twist with fresh coconut cream! This dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings and will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 6-8 shortcake biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the unsweetened shredded coconut and granulated sugar to the whipped cream and mix until combined.
3. Split the shortcake biscuits in half and place on serving plates.
4. Top each biscuit with sliced strawberries and a dollop of fresh coconut cream.
5. Garnish with additional strawberries and fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on preparing the whipped cream)
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake with Fresh Coconut Cream!
Black Forest Cake with Cherry Compote
Experience the quintessential German dessert, reimagined with a sweet and tangy cherry compote.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cherry compote:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier (or other orange-flavored liqueur)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the cake batter according to package instructions or make from scratch using flour, sugar, eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
3. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
5. Prepare the cherry compote by combining cherries, sugar, cornstarch, Grand Marnier, and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
6. Assemble the cake by spreading a layer of whipped cream on each cooled cake, followed by a spoonful of cherry compote.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (including prep time)
Tiramisu-Inspired Coffee Cake with Mascarpone Frosting
Elevate your breakfast game with this creative twist on the classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu. This coffee cake combines the flavors of espresso, mascarpone cheese, and ladyfingers in a sweet and savory treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso
– 1/4 cup ladyfinger crumbs
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, egg, and espresso; mix until combined.
4. Fold in ladyfinger crumbs.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Mascarpone Frosting:
1. Beat 8 ounces mascarpone cheese with 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
2. Spread on cooled coffee cake.
3. Dust with additional confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Raspberry Almond Cake with Amaretto Glaze
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the sweetness of raspberries, the crunch of almonds, and the subtle depth of amaretto. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Amaretto glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in raspberries and almonds.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Amaretto Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons amaretto liqueur
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Whisk together until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Orange Cardamom Cake with Citrus Glaze
This moist and aromatic cake combines the warmth of cardamom with the brightness of orange, finished with a tangy citrus glaze. Perfect for a springtime dessert or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– Zest of 1 orange
– Citrus glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and cardamom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, orange juice, and zest.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before glazing.
Citrus Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
Whisk together until smooth, then drizzle over cooled cake.
Chocolate Hazelnut Cake with Vegan Nutella Frosting
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this indulgent cake that combines the deep flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts with a creamy vegan frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup non-dairy milk
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 1/4 cup hazelnut syrup (or hazelnut spread)
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 2 large eggs, replaced by: 2 flax eggs*
For the frosting:
– 1/2 cup vegan Nutella spread
– 1/4 cup non-dairy milk
– 2 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine non-dairy milk, canola oil, hazelnut syrup, sugar, and flax eggs. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and whisk until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with vegan Nutella spread mixed with non-dairy milk and powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes (including cooling time)
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cake with Salted Caramel Drizzle
This rich and decadent cake combines the creamy goodness of peanut butter, the indulgence of chocolate chips, and the perfect balance of salty caramel drizzle.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the drizzle:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Flaky sea salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and sugar until smooth. Add butter and mix until combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture and chocolate chips; mix until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce and sprinkling with sea salt.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting
This moist and flavorful apple cinnamon cake is topped with a rich brown sugar frosting, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This classic dessert is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the frosting:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix cake ingredients and pour into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
5. In a bowl, mix together frosting ingredients until smooth. Spread over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chai-Spiced Cake with Vanilla Bean Frosting
Elevate your baking game with this aromatic cake infused with the comforting flavors of chai, topped with a creamy vanilla bean frosting. Perfect for a cozy afternoon or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 bean vanilla
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and spices. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. With the mixer on low, gradually add flour mixture, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before frosting.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tropical Pineapple Coconut Cake with Lime Zest
Escape to a tropical paradise with this moist and flavorful cake, infused with the sweetness of pineapple, the richness of coconut, and the brightness of lime zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup lime zest (from about 2 limes)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, coconut, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add pineapple juice, heavy cream, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in lime zest.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in these 18 decadent vegetarian birthday cake recipes that are sure to impress! From classic vanilla bean sponge cake with buttercream frosting, to rich chocolate avocado cake with coconut whipped cream, and lemon blueberry layer cake with cream cheese frosting, there’s something for everyone. Other mouthwatering options include carrot cake with walnuts and maple glaze, matcha green tea cake with white chocolate ganache, and pumpkin spice cake with cream cheese swirl. With flavors ranging from sweet to tangy, these cakes are sure to make your special day unforgettable.
