VEGAN LEMON VELVET CAKE

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk or other plant-based milk

1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 tbsp lemon zest

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

1 tsp lemon extract (optional)

Yellow food coloring (optional, for a brighter color)

For the Lemon Frosting:

1 cup vegan butter (such as coconut oil, Earth Balance, or other vegan butter substitute)

4 cups powdered sugar

2-3 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp lemon zest

Yellow food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

For the Cake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, combine the almond milk, vegetable oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and lemon extract (if using). Mix well.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If you want a brighter color, you can add a few drops of yellow food coloring and mix until you achieve the desired hue.

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

For the Lemon Frosting:

In a mixing bowl, beat the vegan butter until creamy.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and continue to beat until the frosting is smooth and well combined. If needed, adjust the consistency with more lemon juice or powdered sugar.

If you want a brighter color for the frosting, you can add a few drops of yellow food coloring and mix until you reach the desired shade.

To Assemble:

Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate.

Spread a layer of lemon frosting on top.

Place the second cake layer on top of the first.

Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining lemon frosting.

Garnish with lemon slices, lemon zest, or edible flowers, if desired.

Slice and enjoy your delicious Vegan Lemon Velvet Cake!