You know those days when only chocolate will do? That’s how I felt when I decided to whip up my Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake. With its rich, fudgy texture and a delightful blend of maple syrup and cocoa, this cake checks all the boxes for an uplifting dessert. The best part? It’s ready in just about an hour and requires only one bowl for easy clean-up. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat, this cake is not only gluten-free and vegan but will also win over everyone—whether they're dietary restrictions or not. Are you curious to see how simple this indulgence can be? Let's dive into the recipe!

Why is this cake so delicious?
Simplicity at Its Finest: With just one bowl required, you’ll save time on both prep and cleanup.
Decadent Flavor: Rich cocoa and sweet maple syrup create an irresistible taste that satisfies any chocolate craving.
Diet-Friendly: This gluten free vegan cake is perfect for anyone, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a slice without worry.
Quick and Easy: From mixing to baking, you’ll have this cake ready in just about an hour, making it an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: It pairs perfectly with dairy-free ice cream or whipped coconut cream, making it an instant hit for any occasion!
This recipe is your ticket to a delicious, effortless dessert experience!
Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake Ingredients
• Get ready to indulge in a delightful chocolate treat!
For the Cake
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour – provides the cake's structure without the gluten!
- Cocoa powder – adds a rich, chocolatey flavor that’s truly decadent.
- Baking soda – helps the cake rise beautifully for that perfect texture.
- Salt – enhances the chocolate flavor, making every bite scrumptious.
- Maple syrup – sweetens the cake naturally while keeping it vegan.
- Vegetable oil – ensures a moist and tender crumb in this indulgent creation.
- Vanilla extract – adds a hint of warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
- Dairy-free chocolate chips (optional) – for extra chocolate goodness if you can’t get enough!
This Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience waiting to be savored!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take a moment to grease a cake pan with your preferred oil or line it with parchment paper. This ensures your Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake will release effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of gluten-free all-purpose flour, 1 cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients together until they are fully incorporated, allowing the dry mixture to be uniform in color and free from lumps.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in 1 cup of maple syrup, ⅓ cup of vegetable oil, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract to your bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spatula or a large spoon, mix everything together until you achieve a thick, smooth batter. This should take about 2-3 minutes of gentle stirring to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Chocolate Chips
If you’re using them, fold in ½ cup of dairy-free chocolate chips at this point. Use a gentle hand as you mix to avoid breaking the chips. This addition will enhance the chocolate richness in your cake, making the Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake even more delightful.
Step 5: Transfer Batter to Pan
Once mixed, carefully pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula, ensuring the surface is smooth. This will help the cake bake evenly, achieving that perfect, fudgy texture you'll love.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should look set and slightly cracked, indicating the cake is ready to come out.
Step 7: Cool Down
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing it to cool fully will help the flavors meld and make slicing much easier without crumbling.

Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity soar as you customize this delicious cake with these fun variations!
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Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and rich, nutty flavor. They offer a wonderful contrast to the cake's fudgy interior.
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Berry Bliss: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen raspberries before baking. The tartness and juiciness of the berries brighten up the chocolate flavor beautifully!
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Coconut Twist: Substitute the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil and top the cake with shredded coconut for a tropical vibe. Coconut paired with chocolate is simply divine!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dry ingredients for a subtle heat that enhances the chocolate richness. Your taste buds will be in for a wonderful surprise!
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Coffee Infusion: Mix in 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules with the dry ingredients to deepen the cake's flavor. Coffee and chocolate together create an amazing harmony that coffee lovers will adore!
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Enhanced Citrus: Zest of one orange or lemon folded into the batter brings a brightness that perfectly complements the deep chocolate flavor. The zest will invigorate your senses!
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Different Sweetener: Swap maple syrup for agave nectar or coconut sugar for a unique sweetness and flavor profile. Each sweetener brings its flair to the cake!
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Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting: Top your cake with a light vegan cream cheese frosting for a tangy, sweet finish. It adds a delightful creaminess that lifts the entire dessert experience!
Don't forget, you can always explore more serving suggestions like pairing it with whipped coconut cream or even some fresh berries on top for an extra delicious treat! Adjusting the recipe to match your preferences makes it tailored just for you!
Expert Tips for Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake
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Measure Carefully: Use a kitchen scale for gluten-free flour to ensure accuracy, preventing a dry or dense cake.
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Mix Gently: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Stir just until combined for the best texture in your Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake.
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Check for Doneness: Everyone's oven is different! Always check your cake a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
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Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely before slicing to maintain its fudgy texture and avoid crumbling.
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Add Variations: Get creative by adding nuts or dried fruit to the batter for extra flavor and texture!
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Store Properly: To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
What to Serve with Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake
There's nothing quite like complementing a warm, chocolatey slice with flavors and textures that elevate your dessert experience.
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Dairy-Free Ice Cream: The creamy coolness offers a delicious contrast to the rich cake, making each bite irresistible. A scoop of vanilla or chocolate enhances the chocolate flavor splendidly.
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Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and airy, this topping adds a tropical flair that balances the cake's density, giving you that perfect moment of indulgence.
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Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries provide a burst of freshness and a tart kick that cuts through the sweetness beautifully, adding both color and vibrancy to your plate.
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Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the fudginess of the cake, delivering a delightful contrast.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate on top adds extra richness and decadence to your dessert.
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Herbal Tea: Pair with chamomile or mint tea for a soothing finish after chocolate indulgence, deepening the sensory experience of your meal.
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Coffee: The bitter notes of a freshly brewed coffee create a magnificent balance with the dessert's sweetness, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Let your imagination run wild with these pairings and enjoy a memorable dessert experience that will have everyone coming back for a second slice!
Storage Tips for Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake
Room Temperature: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful fudginess.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: Wrap slices of the Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To revive your cake, microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds, or warm it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.
Make Ahead Options
These Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cakes are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dry ingredients (1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour, 1 cup cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt) up to 3 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can mix the wet ingredients (1 cup maple syrup, ⅓ cup vegetable oil, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract) and keep them in the refrigerator overnight. When you're ready to bake, simply combine both mixtures and fold in the optional dairy-free chocolate chips before pouring the batter into the pan. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious cake with minimal effort!

Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, ensure that your cocoa powder is fresh—look for a rich, deep color and a fragrant aroma. For the vegetable oil, a neutral option like grapeseed or canola is great, but for extra flavor, you can also use coconut oil if you prefer! Remember that the quality of maple syrup affects the cake’s sweetness, so opt for pure maple syrup rather than imitation.
How should I store the leftover cake?
After baking, you'll want to keep that deliciousness fresh! Store any leftover Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve it for longer, refrigerate it for up to 1 week, ensuring it stays moist—let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!
Can I freeze this cake, and how?
Certainly! To freeze your cake, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw a slice overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours. You can even pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up!
What if my cake comes out too dense?
If your Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or incorrect flour measurement. Make sure to measure your gluten-free flour accurately, preferably using a kitchen scale. Mix until just combined and check for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overshooting your bake time. If it still feels heavy, consider adding a bit more baking soda in your next batch for a lighter texture!
Any dietary concerns or considerations?
Very! This cake is not only gluten-free and vegan, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser for many dietary preferences. However, if you’re making it for someone with allergies, double-check that all ingredients are certified gluten-free and free from cross-contamination. For those with nut allergies, ensure you choose a vegetable oil that’s free of nuts. It’s always a good idea to ask about dietary restrictions before serving.
Can I substitute ingredients for a healthier option?
Of course! If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can try using natural sweeteners like mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce in place of maple syrup, though it may slightly alter the texture and flavor. For a lower-fat alternative, consider avocado puree to replace some or all of the vegetable oil. Just remember, the fun of baking is experimenting, so don’t hesitate to find the perfect mix for your taste!

Indulge in Gluten Free Vegan One Bowl Chocolate Cake Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until incorporated.
- Add maple syrup, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until you have a thick, smooth batter.
- Fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips if using, mixing gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.





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