The cakes’ inside wave pattern and swirled chocolate frosting are definite classics in Germany and are meant to represent the Danube’s movement. These vanilla custard-filled Donauwelle cakes have become a new favourite.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat)
For the Cherry Layer
- 1 can (about 14 oz) pitted sour cherries, drained
- 1/2 cup cherry jam or preserves
For the Crumb Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted
For the Chocolate Glaze
- 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon vegan butter
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) with parchment paper.
Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the applesauce, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and plant-based milk. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Cherry Layer
- Spread the cherry jam evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Distribute the drained sour cherries on top of the jam.
Cake Layer
Pour the cake batter over the cherries and spread it evenly.
Crumb Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and melted vegan butter. Mix until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping over the cake batter.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan.
Chocolate Glaze
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dairy-free chocolate chips, plant-based milk, and vegan butter.
- Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the chocolate glaze over the cooled cake and spread it evenly.
Chilling
Place the cake in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the chocolate glaze to set.
Slice and Serve
Once the glaze is set, remove the cake from the refrigerator and slice into squares or rectangles.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 300-350 kcal
- Protein: 3-5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45-55 g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-4 g
- Fat: 15-20 g
- Sodium: 150-200 mg
