Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe is a rich, moist vegan chocolate cake made with cocoa, flour, applesauce, and dairy-free chocolate chips.
I made this delicious Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe several times, adjusting the soy milk and sugar slightly to suit taste. This Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe brings out deep chocolate flavor while keeping the cake tender and light.
I wanted a quick, easy chocolate dessert that could be prepared in small portions or as a larger cake. I modified the frosting slightly, adding a bit more soy milk for creaminess.
Step-by-step instructions will show the full process of making Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe.
About This Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe
Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe is a rich, moist, and deeply chocolaty dessert that balances sweetness with a subtle natural flavor from applesauce.
The cake has a tender, soft texture that melts in the mouth, while the dairy-free chocolate chips add small bursts of extra chocolate richness.
The vegan chocolate buttercream frosting is creamy, smooth, and perfectly complements the cake without being overly sweet.
Made entirely with plant-based ingredients, this cake is fully vegan, free from dairy and eggs, yet still indulgent and satisfying, offering a decadent chocolate experience that anyone can enjoy.
How To Prepare Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe?
To make this Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe successfully, I’ll guide you through the process step by step with clear explanations. Each stage is easy to follow and designed for great results.
I’ll also share helpful kitchen tools, though basic equipment works just fine. With simple steps and pantry ingredients, you’ll create a rich, moist chocolate cake with confidence.
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Vegan
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: 8 servings

Kitchen Utensils
- Two 8-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and/or electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter (for cocoa and powdered sugar)
- Cooling rack
- Offset spatula or knife (for frosting)
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake:
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4–1/2 cup unsweetened soy milk
- 1 tablespoon canola oil, melted coconut oil, or vegan butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons dairy-free chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups vegan butter (softened, sticks, not tub)
- 4–5 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4–1/2 cup unsweetened soy milk
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the pans
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease two 8-inch cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons flour, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Stir in 2 tablespoons chocolate chips.
Step 3: Combine the wet ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 2/3 cup applesauce, 1/4 cup soy milk (add more later if needed), 1 tablespoon oil, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Mix wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth. If the batter is too thick, add a little more soy milk, up to 1/2 cup, to make it pourable.
Step 5: Bake the cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 5–10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack.
Step 6: Prepare the frosting
In a large bowl, beat 1 1/2 cups vegan butter until creamy. Gradually sift in 4–5 cups powdered sugar and 1 cup cocoa powder, alternating with 1/4–1/2 cup soy milk, until smooth and spreadable. Mix in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
Step 7: Assemble the cake
Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and cover the top and sides evenly with the remaining frosting.
Step 8: Serve and store
Slice and enjoy. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts Of Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sugar | 35g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Why It’s a Favorite Among Dessert Lovers
Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe is a favorite among dessert lovers because it delivers rich chocolate flavor while remaining light and moist. Its vegan ingredients make it accessible to anyone avoiding dairy or eggs without sacrificing taste or texture.
The creamy chocolate buttercream frosting complements the soft cake perfectly, creating a decadent experience in every slice.
Dessert lovers appreciate that it’s easy to make, forgiving in preparation, and customizable with small tweaks like extra chocolate chips or a hint of vanilla.
The Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe satisfies chocolate cravings while feeling wholesome and indulgent at the same time.
Why My Recipe Works
My Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe works because it balances flavor, texture, and ease of preparation. The applesauce keeps the cake moist while reducing the need for oil, and the cocoa and chocolate chips create a rich, deep chocolate taste.
Using plant-based ingredients ensures the cake is vegan without sacrificing indulgence. The ratios of flour, sugar, and baking powder produce a light, tender crumb that holds up well under frosting.
The chocolate buttercream is creamy and spreads easily, enhancing the cake without overwhelming it. Simple steps and reliable ingredients make this recipe consistent and successful every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe because it makes a rich, moist, and deeply chocolate cake that is entirely vegan.
The soft, tender texture pairs beautifully with creamy chocolate buttercream frosting, creating a dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy.
The ingredients are simple and easy to find, and the recipe is forgiving, so it works even for beginners. Small modifications, like adjusting sweetness or adding extra chocolate chips, enhance the flavor to your liking.
This Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe satisfies chocolate cravings, is plant-based, and can become a favorite for gatherings, celebrations, or anytime you want a comforting treat.
Decorate And Serving Ideas
For decorating and serving Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe, start by spreading a smooth layer of vegan chocolate buttercream over the top and sides using an offset spatula or knife.
You can add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate on top for extra flair. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries provide a bright contrast and pop of color.
For a simple touch, dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar. Serve the cake on a decorative plate or cake stand, slicing into even pieces for sharing. Pair with plant-based milk, coffee, or vegan ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Expert Tips And Tricks
1. Measure ingredients carefully. Too much flour or cocoa can make the cake dry, so use a level spoon and check your measurements.
2. Adjust soy milk gradually. Start with the smaller amount and add more only if the batter feels too thick.
3. Mix gently. Over mixing can make the cake dense, so stir just until all ingredients are combined.
4. Fold in chocolate chips at the end. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom.
5. Let the cake cool before frosting. Frosting melts if the cake is too warm, so wait 5–10 minutes after baking.
6. Use softened vegan butter for the frosting. Soft butter blends better with powdered sugar, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
Additions For Make More Delicious
✔ Extra Chocolate Chips – Mixing in extra dairy-free chocolate chips creates small pockets of melted chocolate throughout the cake. Each bite becomes more indulgent, adding bursts of gooey sweetness that deepen the chocolate flavor.
✔ Espresso or Coffee – Adding a teaspoon of instant espresso powder or strong brewed coffee to the batter intensifies the chocolate taste. The coffee doesn’t make the cake taste like coffee, but it brings out richer, darker chocolate notes.
✔ Nutty Crunch – Incorporate chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the batter or sprinkle on top of the frosting. Nuts add a satisfying crunch and a toasty, earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake.
✔ Fruit Layers – Layer fresh berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or cherries, between the cake layers. The tartness of the fruit contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate, adding freshness, color, and extra flavor dimension.
✔ Flavor Extracts – Adding a small amount of almond, hazelnut, or coconut extract to the batter or frosting introduces subtle aromatic notes. These extracts enhance the chocolate and give the cake a more sophisticated, layered flavor without overpowering it.
Best Variations
➤ Mocha Chocolate Cake – Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter and mix a little coffee into the frosting. This gives a rich mocha flavor that enhances the chocolate depth.
➤ Chocolate Berry Cake – Layer the cake with fresh or thawed berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness and adds color.
➤ Nutty Chocolate Cake – Fold chopped walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts into the batter and sprinkle some on top of the frosting. This adds crunch and a toasted, nutty flavor.
➤ Coconut Chocolate Cake – Add shredded coconut into the batter or sprinkle on top of the frosting. Use coconut extract in the frosting for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
➤ Spiced Chocolate Cake – Mix a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili powder into the cake batter. Warm spices or a hint of heat create a unique flavor that makes the chocolate more aromatic and interesting.
Storage Instructions
Store the fully cooled cake in an airtight container. At room temperature, it stays fresh for up to 2 days. In the refrigerator, it can last 4–5 days; allow the frosting to soften at room temperature before serving.
For longer storage, wrap the Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Conclusion
This delicious Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe is a recipe everyone enjoys. Every time I make it, it comes out moist, rich, and full of chocolate flavor, and it always brings smiles when I serve it.
I love preparing Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe again and again because it’s easy, reliable, and satisfying to bake. Sharing my simple method allows others to recreate this cake effortlessly at home.
I hope anyone who tries it will enjoy making it as much as I do and experience the joy of serving a homemade, indulgent chocolate cake.
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Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Two 8-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and/or electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter (for cocoa and powdered sugar)
- Cooling rack
- Offset spatula or knife (for frosting)
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake:
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 –1/2 cup unsweetened soy milk
- 1 tablespoon canola oil melted coconut oil, or vegan butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons dairy-free chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups vegan butter softened, sticks, not tub
- 4 –5 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 –1/2 cup unsweetened soy milk
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the pans
- Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease two 8-inch cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
- In a medium bowl, sift together 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons flour, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Stir in 2 tablespoons chocolate chips.
Step 3: Combine the wet ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together 2/3 cup applesauce, 1/4 cup soy milk (add more later if needed), 1 tablespoon oil, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Mix wet and dry ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth. If the batter is too thick, add a little more soy milk, up to 1/2 cup, to make it pourable.
Step 5: Bake the cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 5–10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack.
Step 6: Prepare the frosting
- In a large bowl, beat 1 1/2 cups vegan butter until creamy. Gradually sift in 4–5 cups powdered sugar and 1 cup cocoa powder, alternating with 1/4–1/2 cup soy milk, until smooth and spreadable. Mix in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
Step 7: Assemble the cake
- Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and cover the top and sides evenly with the remaining frosting.
Step 8: Serve and store
- Slice and enjoy. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Nora Cooks Chocolate Cake Recipe
Calories: 320 kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Fat: 13g | Protein: 3g | Sugar: 35g | Fiber: 3g
Hi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.