Key Ingredients of Vegan and Gluten-Free Cakes
Ever wonder what goes into vegan and gluten-free cakes? These treats are more than just dairy- and wheat-free, they’re made with thoughtfully selected ingredients that deliver rich flavour, moisture, and texture without compromise.
In this article, we reveal the key components of plant-based and gluten-free cakes that make them satisfying while still meeting strict dietary needs or food preferences.
What Makes a Cake Vegan and Gluten-Free?
A cake is vegan when it contains no animal-derived products. That means no eggs, dairy, honey, or gelatine.
It’s gluten-free when it’s made without any wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing grains.
Key Ingredients in Our Vegan and Gluten-Free Cakes
Almond and Rice Flour
Instead of traditional wheat flour which is found on commercially available cakes, vegan and gluten-free cakes use finely ground almond flour and gluten-free rice flour. These lend structure and slightly nutty richness to the bread component of the cakes.
Coconut Oil and Olive Oil
In place of animal-derived butter, alternatives such as cold-pressed coconut oil or light olive oil are used to add richness and moisture to vegan and gluten-free cakes.
Oat Milk and Coconut Milk
These plant-based milks provide a creamy texture. Coconut milk works beautifully in chocolate or fruit-based cakes, while oat milk is neutral and versatile.
Natural Binders: Flaxseed and Chia Seeds
To replace eggs as binders, "flax eggs" or soaked chia seeds are used to bind the cake together while adding fibre and nutrients.
Maple Syrup or Coconut Sugar
The sweetness of gluten-free and vegan cakes are often derived from unrefined natural sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar. They provide flavour depth and avoid over-processing.
Why These Ingredients Matter
Using high-quality, natural ingredients allows local bakeshops to meet dietary needs without resorting to artificial stabilisers or synthetic replacements. Thus making their vegan and gluten-free cakes:
- Rich in flavour
- Moist and satisfying
- Free from common allergens
- Loved by vegans and non-vegans alike
👉 Explore Cake Sampler Boxes
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While we currently do not offer gluten-free cakes commercially, we do offer cake customisation to suit your dietary needs. Simply
reach out to our team and we'll be happy to craft the cake that's best for you. At Profiterole Patisserie, we believe no one should miss out on life’s sweetest moments. Explore our
Shop All Cakes and find your perfect match.
Written by Jason Yacoub from Profiterole Patisserie
Date written: 22/07/2025
FAQs about cake textures and types
What flour is used in gluten-free cakes?
Almond flour and rice flour are used is gluten-free cakes. These are naturally gluten-free and create a soft, tender crumb.
What replaces eggs in vegan cakes?
To replace eggs, alternatives such as ground flaxseed, chia seed gel, or mashed banana are used as binders.
Are vegan and gluten-free cakes healthy?
They can be! Vegan and gluten-free akes often use unrefined sugars, healthy oils, and nutrient-dense flours — but they’re still dessert, so enjoy them as a treat.
Do vegan gluten-free cakes taste good?
Absolutely. When made with quality ingredients and balanced recipes, they’re every bit as indulgent and satisfying as traditional cakes.
Can I customise a vegan or gluten-free cake?
Yes. You can reach out via our Contact Us page for custom dietary-friendly cake orders.
