Ingredients:

For the Cake:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1 teaspoon baking soda

- ½ teaspoon salt

- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant milk)

- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

- ½ cup vegetable oil (canola or melted coconut oil work well)

- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

- 1 cup water

For the Frosting:

- 1 cup vegan butter, softened

- 4 cups powdered sugar

- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

- 2-4 tablespoons almond milk (or any plant milk)

 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

2. In a small bowl, combine the almond milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to create vegan "buttermilk."

3. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. Add the oil, vanilla extract, and "buttermilk" to the dry ingredients. Mix until combined.

5. Gradually add the water and mix until the batter is smooth.

6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Frosting:

1. In a large bowl, beat the vegan butter until creamy.

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.

3. Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of almond milk. Beat on high until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

3. Assemble the Cake:

1. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand.

2. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top of the first layer.

3. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

4. Decorate the cake with your favourite plant-based toppings, such as fresh berries, shredded coconut, or vegan sprinkles.

Enjoy your delicious plant-based birthday cake!