Easy gluten free cake recipe

You know that moment when you take a bite of cake, close your eyes, and let the flavors wrap around you like a warm hug? Now imagine doing that without worrying about gluten or dairy — and without sacrificing one ounce of decadence. This Easy gluten free cake recipe is exactly that. Moist, rich, and indulgent, it’s proof that you can bake something everyone at the table will adore, no matter their dietary needs.
Whether you’re preparing for a birthday, a holiday spread, or just a well-deserved treat for yourself, this recipe will become your go-to. Let’s walk through every step so you can master it on your first try.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Easy gluten free cake recipe
This cake isn’t just “good for gluten free” — it’s simply good.
- It’s perfect for all occasions, from special celebrations to Sunday afternoons.
- The texture is moist and tender, with a deep chocolate flavor that satisfies every sweet craving.
- Simple pantry ingredients come together easily — no fancy tools required.
- It’s a safe, crowd-pleasing dessert for friends and family with gluten or dairy sensitivities.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather everything first so baking feels smooth and stress-free.
Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
---|---|---|
Gluten-free flour blend | 2 cups | Use a 1:1 blend with xanthan gum for best texture |
Cocoa powder | ¾ cup | Choose high-quality, unsweetened cocoa |
Baking soda | 1 tsp | Check freshness for best rise |
Baking powder | 1 tsp | Ensure it’s gluten free |
Sugar | 1 ½ cups | Coconut sugar works for refined sugar-free |
Plant-based milk | 1 cup | Almond, oat, or soy milk |
Dairy-free butter | ½ cup | Or use melted coconut oil |
Eggs (or flax eggs) | 2 | Flax egg: 1 tbsp flax meal + 3 tbsp water each |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Pure vanilla adds better flavor |

Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare Your Baking Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease two round cake pans and line them with parchment paper. This extra step guarantees your cake won’t stick and makes removing it a breeze.
Step 2 – Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour blend, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and sugar. Stir gently so everything is evenly combined.
Step 3 – Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix your plant-based milk, melted dairy-free butter (or coconut oil), eggs, and vanilla. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature — this small trick helps the cake rise evenly.
Step 4 – Bring the Batter Together
Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Gluten free batter benefits from resting for about 5 minutes before baking — it allows the flour to hydrate fully.
Step 5 – Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between the pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Step 6 – Cool and Frost
Let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack before adding frosting. For the ultimate finish, try a silky dairy-free chocolate ganache or a light vegan buttercream.
Tips for Easy gluten free cake recipe
- Measure accurately — too much flour can make your cake dry.
- Don’t skip parchment paper — it keeps layers intact.
- Rest the batter for a few minutes before baking for better structure.
- Choose high-quality cocoa for rich, deep chocolate flavor.
Flavor Variations to Try
Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some fun twists:
- Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
- Fold in dairy-free chocolate chips for extra richness.
- Top with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a sweet-tart contrast.
- Make it vegan by using flax eggs and maple syrup as sweetener.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
- Pair with coconut whipped cream or dairy-free vanilla ice cream.
- Store leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly.
FAQ – Gluten Free Dairy Free Chocolate Cake
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Absolutely — flax eggs or chia eggs work beautifully.
Will almond flour work instead of a gluten free blend?
Not as a direct swap. Almond flour changes the texture and needs additional binders.
How can I make this cake refined sugar-free?
Replace white sugar with coconut sugar or use maple syrup (adjust liquid slightly).
Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake?
Yes! Bake at the same temperature for 18–20 minutes.
Conclusion
Your Easy gluten free cake recipe is more than just a recipe — it’s your answer to inclusive, joy-filled baking. Each slice delivers rich chocolate flavor, a soft crumb, and the comfort of knowing everyone can enjoy it. Whether you share it with friends or keep it all to yourself (no judgment), this cake is proof that dietary restrictions don’t have to mean missing out on life’s sweetest moments.
So grab your mixing bowl, preheat that oven, and make this your new signature dessert. After all, the best cakes aren’t just baked — they’re shared.