Vegan Mulled Wine Chocolate Cake

As the evenings grow cooler and the leaves start their colorful dance, it’s the perfect time to introduce a cake that encapsulates the essence of the season—my Vegan Mulled Wine Chocolate Cake! This recipe is close to my heart, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. It’s not just a cake; it’s a celebration in every bite, filled with the rich, spicy notes of mulled wine and the indulgent comfort of chocolate. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious novice, this cake promises to bring warmth and joy to your autumn table.

Ingredients

Cake:

• 400 ml red wine
• 300 g light brown soft sugar (or caster sugar)
• 160 ml neutral oil (like sunflower)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cider or white wine vinegar
• Zest from 1 ½ oranges
• 260 g all-purpose flour
• 85 g Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp mixed spice
• ½ tsp ground ginger

Ganache:

• 300 g dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 270 ml vegan double cream alternative (e.g., Elmlea Plant Double Cream)
• 1 Tbsp golden syrup (or maple syrup)

this Recipe

How to Make Vegan Mulled Wine Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a 9-inch cake pan, lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the red wine, brown sugar, oil, vanilla extract, vinegar, and orange zest until well combined.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, mixed spice, and ground ginger.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake fluffy!
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare the Ganache: While the cake cools, place the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Heat the vegan cream and syrup until just simmering, then pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.
7. Assemble: Once the cake has cooled, pour the ganache over the cake, spreading it out to cover the top.
8. Serve: Allow the ganache to set slightly, then slice and serve the cake with a sprinkle of orange zest or a dusting of cocoa powder for an extra special touch.

Helpful Tips

• Wine Selection: Choose a wine that you enjoy drinking; its flavors will be prominent in the cake.
• Cake Testing: Check the cake a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overbaking.

Substitutions/Variations

• Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
• Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste, perhaps adding a pinch of nutmeg or clove for deeper warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this cake alcohol-free?
   • While the wine is integral to the mulled flavor, you can experiment with alcohol-free red wine or a mixture of grape juice with mulling spices simmered and cooled.
2. Is this cake suitable for kids?
   • Due to the alcohol content, it’s best reserved for adult gatherings.

Storage Instructions

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

More Relevant Recipes

If you loved this cake, why not dive deeper into vegan baking? Explore these delightful treats next:

• Baileys Chocolate Poke Cake
• Chocolate Mousse Brownies
• Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

This Vegan Mulled Wine Chocolate Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a festive experience that promises to enchant your senses and bring everyone together. Bake it with love, serve it with pride, and enjoy the symphony of flavors! Happy baking!

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