Do you have a strict vegan in the family with a birthday or celebration coming up that traditionally calls for cake? If you're unfamiliar with vegan dietary practices, you might be unsure about what they can’t eat or how to make suitable substitutions.

Don’t worry! Here’s a quick guide to help you make the perfect vegan cake that everyone will love.

What Strict Vegans Don’t Eat

1. Eggs: Essential for binding and moisture in traditional cakes.
2. Dairy Milk: Used in batters and frostings.
3. Butter: Commonly used for flavor and texture.
4. Certain Sugars: Many vegans avoid refined sugars that have been whitened using bone char.
5. Dairy Frosting: Contains milk and butter, which are not vegan-friendly.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. Eggs: Use an egg replacer like "EnerG Egg Replacer." Follow the instructions on the box for the appropriate amount to replace each egg.
2. Milk: Substitute cow's milk with organic rice milk or almond milk, both of which are widely available and contain no animal byproducts.
3. Sugar: Look for "unbleached" sugar, sugar in the raw, or beet sugar. Be cautious with cane sugars unless you know they are vegan-friendly.
4. Butter: Replace butter with margarine or vegetable shortening. Ensure that your chosen margarine is dairy-free.
5. Frosting: For non-dairy frosting, look for ready-made options in stores, or make your own using margarine instead of butter.

Putting It All Together

Simply follow these substitutions in your favorite cake recipe, and you’ll create a delicious vegan cake that even the strictest vegan will enjoy! Your thoughtful effort will make the celebration inclusive and enjoyable for everyone. Happy baking!