Vegan Dirt and Worms Cake

Why This Recipe Works: This Vegan Dirt and Worms Cake is a fun and delicious dessert that’s perfect for parties, especially for kids. It combines moist chocolate cake, creamy vegan frosting, and chocolate cookie crumbs to create a playful “dirt” texture. Gummy worms add a whimsical touch, making it a delightful treat for all ages.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Vegan Frosting:

• 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Decoration:

• 1 cup chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed (without the cream filling)
• Gummy worms

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours

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How to Make This Recipe:

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
   • In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract.
   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Vegan Frosting:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened vegan butter until creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Add the unsweetened almond milk and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more almond milk if needed.
3. Assemble the Cake:
   • Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops if necessary.
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of vegan frosting evenly over the top.
   • Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
4. Decorate the Cake:
   • Sprinkle the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies over the top of the frosted cake to create the “dirt” effect.
   • Arrange the gummy worms on top of the cake, pressing them gently into the frosting.
   • Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set before serving.

Expert Tips:

• For a richer chocolate flavor, you can add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the cake batter.
• If you prefer a firmer frosting, you can refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before frosting the cake.
• Feel free to get creative with the decoration. You can add edible flowers or other vegan candies to enhance the whimsical theme.

How to Store This Recipe: Store the Vegan Dirt and Worms Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best taste and texture.