Indulging in a moist and decadent chocolate cake doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your dietary preferences. This recipe for Dairy-Free Chocolate Cake is a delightful treat for those looking for a delicious dessert without any dairy products. Rich, chocolatey, and completely dairy-free, this cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration or a cozy night in. Plus, it’s easy to make and will have your home filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked chocolate goodness. Let’s dive into how to create this dairy-free delight!
**Dairy-Free Chocolate Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
– ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 ½ tsp baking powder
– 1 ½ tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup dairy-free milk (such as almond or coconut milk)
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan option)
– 1 cup hot water
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat** your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, ensuring the sides and bottom are well coated to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, **combine** the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. **In another bowl**, whisk together the dairy-free milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs until well blended. For a vegan option, you can use flax eggs by mixing 2 tbsp ground flaxseed with 6 tbsp water and letting it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
4. **Slowly add** the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently as you pour. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing, as it can lead to a dense cake.
5. **Pour in** the hot water and continue to mix until the batter is smooth and well incorporated. The batter will be thin, but this is normal and will result in a moist cake.
6. **Transfer** the batter to the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
7. **Bake** in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. **Remove** the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. **Once cooled**, you can dust the cake with powdered sugar, top it with dairy-free whipped cream, or serve it plain for a simple yet delicious treat.
This Dairy-Free Chocolate Cake is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic dessert while accommodating dietary restrictions. Its rich flavor and moist texture will have everyone coming back for seconds, whether they follow a dairy-free lifestyle or not. Feel free to get creative with your toppings or enjoy a slice on its own – either way, this cake is sure to impress. So, next time you’re craving some chocolate goodness, whip up this dairy-free delight and savor every bite!
