Vegan Berry Lime Bundt Cake

Luscious Vegan Berry Lime Bundt Cake: A Moist & Zesty Plant-Based Delight

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with this exquisite vegan berry lime bundt cake. This delightful plant-based dessert is renowned for its incredibly soft, moist crumb, complemented by a tangy, refreshing lime drizzle and abundant bursts of fresh or frozen mixed berries. It’s a true celebration of fruit and citrus, perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re basking in the glory of peak summer berries or craving a taste of sunshine during colder months, this versatile recipe allows you to enjoy its fruity goodness all year round. Simply adapt by using either luscious fresh berries at their prime or convenient frozen varieties, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

A beautifully decorated vegan berry lime bundt cake on a pristine white plate, accompanied by a small bowl of glistening frozen berries, ready to be enjoyed.

This berry lime bundt cake offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes: a tender, airy cake base infused with delicate lime notes, punctuated by the juicy, slightly tart explosions of mixed berries in every bite. It’s a remarkably adaptable treat that transitions seamlessly from a delightful mid-morning pick-me-up alongside your favorite cup of tea to an elegant dessert, especially when served warm with a scoop of creamy vegan vanilla ice cream.

The distinctive lime drizzle isn’t just for aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in enhancing the cake’s already tender texture, ensuring it remains wonderfully moist for days. Beyond its moisturizing qualities, the drizzle infuses each slice with an irresistible zingy flavor that beautifully accentuates the natural sweetness and tang of the fresh fruits, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience.

Proudly presented as an updated and fully veganized rendition of a cherished old recipe, this plant-based berry lime bundt cake truly stands on its own. We believe it not only rivals but perhaps even surpasses the deliciousness of the original, proving that cruelty-free baking can be just as, if not more, satisfying and flavorful.

Why You’ll Adore This Vegan Berry Lime Bundt Cake

There are countless reasons why this vegan berry lime bundt cake will become your new go-to recipe. Firstly, its remarkable texture—soft, airy, and deeply moist—defies expectations for a plant-based cake. The combination of vegan yogurt and oil ensures a tender crumb that melts in your mouth, while the lime drizzle adds an extra layer of moisture and an undeniable citrusy punch.

The flavor profile is a delightful dance of sweet, tangy, and zesty notes. The bright, refreshing lime perfectly balances the inherent sweetness of the cake and the tartness of the mixed berries. Each slice offers a burst of fruity goodness, making it an incredibly refreshing dessert, especially during warmer months. It’s sophisticated enough for special occasions yet simple enough for a casual weekend treat.

Furthermore, this recipe embraces the versatility of seasonal produce. While fresh summer berries are undeniably exquisite, the cake tastes just as fantastic with frozen berries, allowing you to enjoy this vibrant dessert any time of the year. It’s also surprisingly straightforward to make, even for those new to vegan baking, with clear steps that guide you to a perfect result every time. Enjoy the guilt-free pleasure of a delicious cake that’s kind to both your palate and the planet.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Vegan Bundt Cake

Crafting a truly exceptional vegan bundt cake hinges on understanding the role of each ingredient. Here’s a detailed look at what makes this Berry Lime Bundt Cake so special:

A clear, labelled photograph displaying all the essential ingredients meticulously laid out for baking a delicious berry lime bundt cake.
  • Berries: The star of the show! You have the flexibility to use either fresh or frozen berries. For this recipe, a delightful mix of frozen blackberries, raspberries, cherries, blueberries, and blackcurrants was chosen, offering a complex fruity flavour. Feel free to experiment with your favourite berry varieties or whatever is in season. When using frozen berries, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand; simply toss them in flour as instructed to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking.
  • Limes: Crucial for that signature zing! You’ll need approximately 3-4 fresh limes. The finely grated zest infuses the cake batter with aromatic citrus notes, while the juice is reserved for creating the luscious, tangy drizzle. If limes are unavailable or you prefer a different citrus profile, lemons make an excellent substitute, offering a similar brightness. Always opt for fresh limes over bottled juice for superior flavour.
  • Plain Flour and Cornflour (Cornstarch): This combination is key to achieving the cake’s wonderfully soft and tender crumb. Regular plain (all-purpose) flour forms the structure, while the addition of a small amount of cornflour helps to lighten the texture and prevent the cake from becoming too dense. If you don’t have cornflour, you can substitute it with an equal weight of plain flour, but for the best results, we highly recommend including it.
  • Baking Powder and Bicarbonate of Soda (Baking Soda): Both leavening agents are indispensable for ensuring a light, airy texture and a good rise in this vegan cake. Baking powder provides initial lift, while bicarbonate of soda reacts with the acidic components in the recipe (like lime zest/juice and vegan yogurt) to create additional carbon dioxide bubbles, contributing significantly to the cake’s overall fluffiness and tender crumb.
  • Vegan Yogurt: A powerhouse ingredient in vegan baking! Unsweetened, plain vegan yogurt—soy or coconut varieties are highly recommended—contributes immensely to the cake’s moistness and adds a subtle tang that complements the lime and berries beautifully. It also acts as a binder and helps activate the baking soda. Ensure it’s plain and unsweetened to control the overall sweetness of the cake.
  • Non-Dairy Milk: Any unsweetened non-dairy milk will work, though soya milk is often preferred for its neutral flavour and excellent baking properties. Almond, oat, or rice milk are also viable options. Avoid tinned coconut milk as its high fat content and distinct flavour profile may alter the cake’s texture and taste.
  • Olive Oil: While olive oil lends a lovely subtle fruitiness, any neutral-flavored oil such as sunflower, canola, or vegetable oil can be used. Oil is an excellent choice in vegan cakes as it provides exceptional moisture and helps create a tender crumb, often surpassing the results achieved with solid vegan butter in terms of keeping qualities.
  • Sugar: Light brown soft sugar is recommended for its subtle molasses notes and moistening properties, which add depth to the cake’s flavour. However, caster sugar or granulated sugar can be used interchangeably if that’s what you have on hand, yielding equally delicious results.
  • Vanilla Extract: Never underestimate the power of good vanilla! Use a high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavour. Vanilla bean paste is an even more luxurious option, offering visible vanilla flecks and a more intense aroma. Avoid vanilla essence, which often contains artificial flavourings and lacks the depth of real vanilla.
A tantalizing close-up shot of a perfectly sliced vegan berry lime bundt cake, revealing its moist interior, vibrant berries, and glossy lime drizzle.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Berry Lime Bundt Cake

(Full measurements and comprehensive instructions can be found in the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this page)

Creating this delicious vegan berry lime bundt cake is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these simple steps to ensure a perfectly baked, moist, and flavorful dessert:

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients and Equipment: Before you begin, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature, as this helps them combine more smoothly for a consistent batter. Preheat your oven and, most importantly, thoroughly grease your bundt tin. Bundt cakes are notorious for sticking, so don’t skip this crucial step! A light coating of vegan butter or oil, followed by a dusting of flour, is usually best.
  2. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all the dry components: the plain flour, cornflour, light brown soft sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and a pinch of salt. Whisking them thoroughly ensures that the leavening agents and flavorings are evenly distributed throughout the mixture, preventing dense spots or uneven rising.
  3. Step 1 in making berry lime bundt cake: the smooth, well-combined batter resting in a large mixing bowl, ready for the next additions.
  4. Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: To the bowl of dry ingredients, add the unsweetened non-dairy milk, plain non-dairy yogurt, neutral oil, vibrant lime zest, and fragrant vanilla extract. Using a balloon whisk, gently stir until just combined. The key here is not to overmix; stop as soon as no dry lumps of flour remain. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a tough, dense cake.
  5. Prepare the Berries: In a separate small bowl, toss your mixed berries (fresh or frozen) with two tablespoons of the reserved flour. This light coating of flour is a simple yet effective trick to prevent the berries from sinking to the bottom of the bundt tin during baking, ensuring an even distribution of fruit throughout your cake.
  6. Step 2 in making berry lime bundt cake: a bowl of mixed berries perfectly coated in a light dusting of flour, ready to be folded into the cake batter.
  7. Gently Fold in the Berries: Carefully add the flour-coated berries to the cake batter. Using a spatula, gently fold them in until they are just incorporated. Again, avoid overmixing to maintain the tender crumb of the cake. You want to distribute the berries without crushing them or overworking the batter.
  8. Step 3 in making berry lime bundt cake: the vibrant mixed berries gently folded into the smooth cake batter, creating a beautiful and fruity mixture.
  9. Transfer to Bundt Tin and Bake: Pour the luscious batter into your meticulously greased 10-cup bundt tin. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and gently tap the tin a few times on your counter to release any trapped air bubbles. Bake for the recommended time (typically 50-60 minutes), or until a skewer inserted into the center (making sure to avoid a berry) comes out clean and the edges of the cake begin to pull away from the sides of the tin.
  10. Step 4 in making berry lime bundt cake: the smooth, berry-studded batter neatly transferred into a greased bundt tin, ready for baking.
    Step 5 in making berry lime bundt cake: the perfectly golden-brown baked cake, fresh out of the oven, showcasing its beautiful bundt shape.
  11. Prepare the Lime Drizzle: While the cake is cooling, prepare your tangy lime drizzle. In a small saucepan, gently heat the fresh lime juice and sugar over a medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for a couple of minutes until it slightly thickens into a syrup. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
  12. Step 6 in making berry lime bundt cake: the freshly prepared, glistening lime drizzle simmering gently in a small pan, ready to enhance the cake.
  13. Drizzle and Cool: Once the cake has cooled in the tin for about 40 minutes, carefully invert it onto a wire rack placed over a roasting tin (to catch any excess drizzle). Liberally pour the prepared lime drizzle over the warm cake, allowing it to soak into the pores and create that irresistible moistness and tangy flavour. Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving to ensure the drizzle sets and the cake is firm enough to handle.
  14. Step 7 in making berry lime bundt cake: the freshly baked cake generously covered with the tangy lime drizzle, creating a beautiful glaze and enhancing moisture.

The Zesty Lime Drizzle: A Must-Have Finish

The lime drizzle isn’t merely an optional topping; it’s an integral component that elevates this vegan bundt cake from good to extraordinary. This simple yet potent syrup infuses the cake with an incredible boost of tart, fresh lime flavor, which harmonizes perfectly with the sweet and fruity notes of the berries. Beyond flavor, the drizzle penetrates the cake, adding an extra layer of moisture that keeps it delightfully tender for days. It creates a beautiful, glossy finish that makes the cake visually irresistible. Don’t skip this step – it truly completes the experience!

A stunning close-up of a single slice of vegan berry lime bundt cake, showcasing its moist texture, visible berry pieces, and the delicate sheen of the lime drizzle.

Expert Tips for Bundt Cake Success

Achieving a perfect bundt cake, especially a vegan one, requires a few key insights. Here are some expert tips to ensure your Berry Lime Bundt Cake turns out beautifully every time:

  • Use a Digital Scale: This cannot be stressed enough for baking! Precision is paramount, and cups are notoriously inaccurate. Using metric measurements with a digital scale will provide far more consistent and reliable results, leading to a superior cake texture and preventing common baking mishaps. It’s also often cleaner and quicker than measuring with cups.
  • Properly Grease Your Bundt Tin: Bundt tins, with their intricate designs, can be tricky. Don’t just spray lightly; use a generous amount of vegan shortening or solid coconut oil, thoroughly coating every nook and cranny. For extra insurance, dust the greased tin with a tablespoon of flour, tapping out the excess. This creates a non-stick barrier that helps the cake release cleanly.
  • Avoid Over-Beating: Once the wet ingredients are added to the dry, mix just until no dry streaks of flour remain. Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to a tough, rubbery cake. A balloon whisk or spatula is ideal for this gentle stirring process.
  • Prevent Berries from Sinking: Tossing your berries with a couple of tablespoons of flour before folding them into the batter is a simple trick that creates a slight barrier, preventing them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking. This ensures an even distribution of fruity goodness throughout.
  • Don’t Rush the Cooling Process: After baking, let the cake cool in the bundt tin on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes (or as specified in the recipe card) before attempting to invert it. This allows the cake to firm up slightly, making it less likely to break when turned out. Then, cool completely on the rack before serving, especially if adding a glaze, to prevent it from melting off.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your wet ingredients (vegan milk, yogurt, oil) are at room temperature. This helps them emulsify properly with the other ingredients, creating a smooth, cohesive batter and a more consistent bake.
  • Test for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to test the cake’s doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the cake, avoiding any berries. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, your cake is ready.
  • The Power of Zest: When zesting your limes, use a fine grater or microplane and only remove the green outer layer. The white pith underneath can be bitter, so avoid it. Zest directly into your dry ingredients to capture all the aromatic oils.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How should I store this vegan berry lime bundt cake?

This delicious vegan berry lime bundt cake will maintain its freshness and delightful texture for approximately 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you live in a particularly warm climate, or during hotter seasons, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage. Please note that due to the natural moisture from the fresh berries and the lime drizzle, the cake will gradually become stickier over time.

Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! This bundt cake freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prepping desserts or saving leftovers. You can freeze it either whole or in individual slices, depending on your preference. Just ensure that the cake has cooled down completely to room temperature before freezing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil, to prevent any freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply allow it to defrost at room temperature for several hours.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

While this specific recipe uses plain (all-purpose) flour, you can often adapt it to be gluten-free by substituting a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly as GF flours can absorb differently. Always ensure your baking powder and bicarbonate of soda are also certified gluten-free. Results may vary slightly in texture.

What other fruits can I use besides berries?

This recipe is quite adaptable! While berries pair beautifully with lime, you could experiment with other finely chopped fruits like peaches, nectarines, or even pitted cherries. Small diced mango or pineapple could also add a tropical twist. Ensure any larger fruit pieces are cut small enough to distribute well and not weigh down the batter.

How do I know when the bundt cake is perfectly baked?

To check for doneness, insert a long wooden skewer or toothpick into the thickest part of the cake, avoiding any visible fruit pieces. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, the cake is ready. The top of the cake should also spring back when lightly touched, and the edges should appear slightly pulled away from the sides of the tin.

Explore More Vegan Fruit Desserts

If you love the fruity goodness of this berry lime bundt cake, you’ll be thrilled to discover more delightful plant-based fruit desserts from our collection. Each recipe is crafted to bring out the best in seasonal and everyday fruits, ensuring a sweet, satisfying, and completely vegan treat.

  • Blueberry crumb cake
  • Vegan cherry loaf cake
  • Chocolate, pear and hazelnut cake
  • Vegan cherry almond cake
  • Vegan pineapple upside-down cake
  • Vegan apple cake
  • Lemon blueberry polenta cake
  • Vegan mango bundt cake
  • Raspberry, white chocolate and almond sheet cake
The stunning sliced vegan berry lime bundt cake, elegantly presented on a white plate, inviting a taste of its moist, fruity goodness.

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Vegan berry lime bundt cake on a white plate with a bowl of frozen berries.

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5 from 2 votes

Berry Lime Bundt Cake (Vegan)

Berry lime bundt cake – this delicious vegan bundt cake is soft and moist with a tangy lime drizzle and lots of fresh berries.
Course Dessert
Cuisine British
Keyword cake
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Servings 12 people
Author Domestic Gothess

Ingredients

Cake:

  • 335 g (2 ¾ cups) plain (all-purpose) flour
  • 40 g (4 packed Tablespoons) cornflour (cornstarch)
  • 230 g (1 cup + 2 Tablespoons) light brown soft sugar
  • 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 150 ml (½ cup + 2 Tablespoons) unsweetened non-dairy milk (I use soy)
  • 120 g (½ cup) plain non-dairy yogurt (I use soy)
  • 150 ml (½ cup + 2 Tablespoons) neutral oil (I use olive)
  • finely grated zest of 3-4 limes
  • 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 350 g (12 oz) mixed berries, fresh or frozen

Lime Syrup:

  • 80 ml (⅓ cup) lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 80 g (⅓ cup) granulated or caster sugar

Instructions

Cake:

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (160℃ fan/350°F/gas mark 4). Thoroughly grease a 10-cup bundt tin to prevent sticking.
  • Set aside 2 tablespoons of the plain flour. In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining flour, cornflour, light brown sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and salt. Whisk well to ensure everything is thoroughly combined.
  • Add the non-dairy milk, yogurt, oil, lime zest, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir with a balloon whisk until the batter is smooth and no dry lumps remain. Be careful not to overmix.
  • In a separate small bowl, toss the mixed berries with the reserved 2 tablespoons of flour until they are lightly coated. Gently fold the floured berries into the cake batter, taking care not to overmix. Dollop the batter into the prepared bundt tin and spread it level.
  • Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre (avoiding any fruit) comes out clean, and the cake begins to pull away from the sides of the tin.
  • Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 40 minutes before carefully turning it out onto a wire rack. Place the wire rack over a roasting tin to catch any excess drizzle.
  • Generously drizzle the prepared lime syrup (recipe below) over the warm cake, ensuring it soaks in. Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.

Lime Syrup:

  • Prepare the lime syrup while the cake is baking. In a small pan, combine the granulated or caster sugar and fresh lime juice. Heat over a medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar has fully dissolved. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for a couple of minutes until it slightly thickens. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool slightly before drizzling.

Notes

  • USE SCALES. As with all of my baking recipes, I strongly recommend using metric measurements with a digital scale rather than cup conversions. Cups are a wildly inaccurate measuring system, and you will achieve far better, more consistent results using a scale. Not to mention, it is also easier and less messy than using cups!
A Pinterest-friendly collage image showcasing the beautiful vegan berry lime bundt cake, perfect for pinning.