Easy Vegan Cake Mix Hack
This Easy Vegan Cake Mix Hack is the quickest way to turn a standard boxed cake mix into a soft, fluffy vegan cake with just a few extra ingredients. Using fizzy lemonade instead of eggs and dairy creates a surprisingly light sponge that’s perfect for when you need an easy dessert in a hurry. Finished with a simple lemon icing, this budget-friendly recipe is ideal for birthdays, bake sales or an everyday treat.
TL;DR
- Turn a boxed cake mix into a delicious vegan cake.
- 100% vegan with just a few extra ingredients.
- Light, fluffy sponge made using fizzy lemonade.
- Perfect for beginner bakers and last-minute desserts.
- Serves 12.
- Ready in around 45 minutes.
Easy Vegan Cake Mix Hack
Ingredients
- 1 box (vegan) vanilla cake mix (400–450g)
- 330ml can of fizzy lemonade
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
- 200g icing sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or water for a plain icing)
How to Make Easy Vegan Cake Mix Hack
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven to the temperature stated on the cake mix box.
Grease and line a deep 20 x 20cm square baking tin.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix and baking powder.
Pour in the fizzy lemonade and add the lemon extract, if using. Mix until the batter is smooth and free from lumps.
Pour the batter into the prepared tin and level the surface.
Step 2: Bake
Bake according to the instructions on the cake mix box.
Depending on the brand of cake mix you use, you may need to bake the cake for an additional 5 minutes. Test by inserting a skewer into the centre—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Icing
Gradually mix the icing sugar with the lemon juice, adding one tablespoon at a time until you have a thick but spreadable icing.
While the cake is still slightly warm, spread the icing evenly over the top.
Leave the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Top Tips
- Use a full-sugar fizzy lemonade rather than a diet version for the best rise.
- Not all boxed cake mixes are vegan as some contain egg or milk powder. Check the ingredients before you buy!
- Mix the batter only until smooth to keep the sponge light.
- Check the cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time, as different cake mix brands can vary.
- Allow the icing to set before slicing for cleaner pieces.
Variations
- Swap the lemon extract for vanilla, orange or almond extract.
- Add colourful sprinkles for a quick celebration cake.
- Top with fresh berries after the icing has set.
- Use chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla and swap the lemon icing for chocolate frosting.
Serving Suggestions
This easy vegan cake is perfect for birthdays, afternoon tea, school bake sales or when you need a quick dessert. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or serve with vegan cream and fresh fruit.
Storage
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost thoroughly before serving.
FAQs
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Easy Vegan Cake Mix Hack
Course: DessertDifficulty: Easy12
servings15
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minutesAn easy vegan cake mix hack using store bought boxed cake mix and a can of fizzy drink.
Ingredients
1 Box of Pre-made Vanilla Cake Mix (400-450g)
330ml Can of Fizzy Lemonade
1/4 tsp Baking Powder
1 tsp Lemon Extract (optional)
200g Icing Sugar
2 tbsp Lemon Juice (can swap for water for plain icing)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to the temperature on the Cake Mix Box. Grease and line a 20x20cm deep baking tray.
- In a large bowl mix the cake mix, baking powder and fizzy lemonade until smooth (add the lemon extract if using).
- Pour into the lined baking tray and bake according to the instructions on the cake mix box (you might need to leave in it the oven for an extra 5 minutes, you can check the cake is cooked by inserting a skewer which should come out clean).
- To make the icing, mix the icing sugar with a tbsp of lemon juice at a time until you get a thick but spreadable icing.
- While the cake is still slightly warm spread the icing over the top of the cake. Allow to cool completely before slicing.
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