Vanilla Cake Recipe

Baking with kids can be a delightful and educational experience. This easy vegan vanilla cake recipe is perfect for teaching children how to bake while creating a delicious treat everyone can enjoy. This cake is simple, fun to make, and entirely plant-based, making it a great option for vegan families. Let’s dive into this exciting baking adventure!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the non-dairy milk, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be smooth and free of lumps.
5. Pour and Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can frost it with your favourite vegan frosting or enjoy it plain.

Fun Tips for Baking with Kids:

1. Interactive Mixing:
   • Let the kids take turns mixing the ingredients. This hands-on activity is both fun and educational, helping them learn about measuring and combining different elements.
2. Decorate Together:
   • Once the cake is cooled, involve the kids in decorating. Provide various toppings like fresh fruit, sprinkles, or shredded coconut. Let their creativity shine!
3. Teach Kitchen Safety:
   • Use this baking session to teach important kitchen safety rules, such as how to handle utensils properly and the importance of oven mitts.
4. Make it Educational:
   • Explain the science behind baking, such as how the baking soda helps the cake rise or why we preheat the oven. Turning baking into a learning experience makes it more engaging.

Health Benefits of Vegan Baking:

• No Animal Products: This vegan vanilla cake is free from eggs and dairy, making it suitable for those with allergies or a vegan lifestyle.
• Healthier Ingredients: Using vegetable oil and non-dairy milk can reduce saturated fats and cholesterol, promoting better heart health.

Conclusion

Baking a vegan vanilla cake with kids is a fantastic way to spend quality time together while teaching them valuable skills. This easy and fun recipe ensures that everyone can enjoy a delicious, plant-based treat. Whether for a special occasion or just a fun weekend activity, this cake is sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients, put on your aprons, and let the baking adventure begin!

By following this easy vegan vanilla cake recipe, you can create a delightful baking experience for children while making a delicious and healthy treat. Happy baking!