What Boxed Cake Mixes Are Vegan: Ultimate Guide for Plant-Based Bakers

Introduction

Vegan boxed cake mixes have become a game-changer for anyone craving delicious plant-based desserts without the hassle of baking from scratch. Let’s face it—sometimes you just want a moist, fluffy cake without pulling out 15 ingredients and dirtying every bowl in your kitchen. That’s where these cake mixes shine. But if you’re vegan or baking for someone who is, you’ve probably found yourself standing in the grocery aisle wondering: Are any of these mixes actually vegan?

The rise of veganism and plant-based diets has pushed brands to create more animal-free products, and the baking aisle is no exception. From classic brands like Duncan Hines and Betty Crocker to health-focused newcomers like Simple Mills and Miss Jones, there’s a growing range of vegan-friendly cake mixes that deliver amazing results.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best vegan boxed cake mixes, share smart ingredient swaps to veganize almost any mix, and give you expert tips to bake up treats that impress even the non-vegans at your table. Ready to have your cake and eat it too? Let’s dive in!

Understanding Vegan Cake Mixes

Before you start tossing boxes into your cart, it’s important to know what makes a cake mix vegan. Many people assume vegan just means no eggs or milk, but the truth is a bit more nuanced.

A vegan cake mix is free of all animal-derived ingredients. That means no dairy, no eggs, no honey, no gelatin, and no hidden animal by-products. But here’s the tricky part: even if a boxed cake mix doesn’t list “milk” or “eggs” in the ingredients, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s vegan.

Common Non-Vegan Ingredients to Watch For

• Dried milk powder or whey: Often found in chocolate and yellow cake mixes.

• Egg whites or whole egg powder: A sneaky addition in some “just add water” mixes.

• Lard or animal fats: Less common today but sometimes used in specialty or regional brands.

• Mono- and diglycerides: These can be plant- or animal-derived, and companies don’t always clarify.

• Natural flavors: Sometimes derived from dairy or animal sources.

Understanding these ingredients can save you from disappointment when you bite into what you thought was a vegan cake. Reading labels carefully is key, and fortunately, some brands make it easier by labeling their products vegan or plant-based right on the box.

Popular Vegan Boxed Cake Mix Brands

Ready to shop smart? Here’s where the magic happens. Several mainstream and specialty brands offer vegan or accidentally vegan cake mixes, so you don’t have to search endlessly.

Duncan Hines

Believe it or not, Duncan Hines is a hero in the accidental vegan world. Many of their classic mixes—like the Devil’s Food, Classic Yellow, and Butter Golden—contain no dairy or eggs in the dry mix. You simply need to swap the egg and dairy ingredients called for on the box with vegan substitutes.

Why we love it:

• Widely available in grocery stores

• Budget-friendly

• Moist and flavorful results

Pro tip: Check the label every time because formulations can change. Also, be sure to avoid their pudding-added mixes, which sometimes contain milk derivatives.

Betty Crocker

Betty Crocker has long been a go-to in American kitchens, and luckily, many of its Super Moist cake mixes are vegan when dry. Flavors like Chocolate Fudge, Rainbow Chip, and Yellow Cake are often free from dairy or eggs. Again, the secret is using vegan replacements for the eggs, milk, and butter the box instructs you to add.

Why we love it:

• Readily available worldwide

• Tons of flavor options

• Pairs beautifully with Betty Crocker Rich & Creamy frostings, many of which are accidentally vegan

Pro tip: Look for their vegan-labeled mixes in some regions—Betty Crocker is expanding their plant-based line internationally.

Simple Mills

If you’re looking for a cleaner, health-focused cake mix, Simple Mills is a fantastic option. Their almond flour-based mixes are naturally vegan, gluten-free, and made with minimal ingredients. Flavors like Vanilla and Chocolate Cake & Muffin Mix are especially popular with health-conscious bakers.

Why we love it:

• Clean, recognizable ingredients

• Grain-free and gluten-free

• Naturally sweetened with coconut sugar

Pro tip: Simple Mills mixes can be a bit denser, so consider adding a touch of extra non-dairy milk to lighten up the batter.

King Arthur Baking Company

King Arthur has a stellar reputation in the baking world, and they deliver again with some vegan-certified cake mixes. Their Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake Mix and Gluten-Free Yellow Cake Mix are labeled vegan and work beautifully for birthdays, holidays, or everyday treats.

Why we love it:

• Certified vegan on select products

• Excellent flavor and texture

• Great for gluten-free diets

Pro tip: Their website often offers vegan recipes and tips specifically designed for their mixes—worth checking out!

Miss Jones Baking Co.

Miss Jones is a newer but rising star in the baking aisle, known for organic and vegan-friendly products. Their Confetti Pop and Chocolate Cake Mixes are not only vegan but also organic, making them a favorite among eco-conscious bakers.

Why we love it:

• Certified organic and non-GMO

• Fun flavors and packaging

• Compatible vegan frosting line

Pro tip: Miss Jones mixes are often found in the natural foods section, so don’t miss them when shopping.

How to Make Any Cake Mix Vegan

Even if your favorite cake mix isn’t labeled vegan, don’t panic—you can almost always veganize it with a few simple swaps. The magic happens when you replace eggs, milk, and butter with plant-based alternatives that still give you a fluffy, moist cake.

Egg Replacers

Eggs usually provide structure, moisture, and binding in cakes. Thankfully, there are many vegan-friendly substitutes that do the job beautifully:

• Flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water, let it sit for 5–10 minutes until gel-like, and use it in place of one egg. This works great in chocolate or spice cakes.

• Chia eggs: Similar to flax eggs but with chia seeds—same method, slightly nuttier flavor.

• Applesauce: Use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce per egg. It adds moisture and a subtle sweetness, perfect for vanilla or carrot cakes.

• Mashed bananas: About ¼ cup mashed ripe banana per egg; adds richness and a slight banana flavor, great for chocolate or banana cakes.

• Commercial egg replacers: Brands like Bob’s Red Mill and Ener-G make powdered egg substitutes that work reliably.

Milk Alternatives

Almost every boxed cake calls for milk, but plant-based milks slip right in:

• Almond milk: Light, slightly nutty, and works well in most cake mixes.

• Oat milk: Creamier, great for adding richness.

• Soy milk: High in protein, excellent for structure.

• Coconut milk: For a tropical touch, especially with chocolate or vanilla mixes.

Butter Alternatives

Instead of dairy butter, go with:

• Vegan butter: Brands like Earth Balance or Miyoko’s taste like the real thing.

• Neutral oils: Canola, sunflower, or vegetable oil deliver moisture.

• Coconut oil: For a hint of coconut flavor and richness.

• Applesauce or mashed banana: Reduces fat and adds natural sweetness.

Pro tip: Mix and match these substitutions depending on the flavor profile you want. For example, flax eggs + almond milk + vegan butter = a rich, classic cake; while chia eggs + oat milk + applesauce = lighter, slightly fruity goodness.

Top Tips for Baking Vegan Cakes from Mix

Making a vegan cake isn’t just about swapping ingredients—it’s about mastering texture, flavor, and presentation. Here’s how to take your cake to the next level:

Adjust Moisture and Texture

Vegan cakes can sometimes turn out dry or crumbly if you don’t balance moisture. Try:

• Adding an extra tablespoon of oil or non-dairy milk to the batter.

• Not overbaking—check for doneness 5–10 minutes before the box time.

• Letting the cake cool fully before slicing to allow it to set.

Flavor Enhancements

Boxed mixes are great, but you can easily elevate them:

• Vanilla extract: A teaspoon boosts flavor, even in chocolate cakes.

• Espresso powder or coffee: Intensifies chocolate flavor.

• Citrus zest (lemon, orange): Adds brightness to vanilla or yellow cake.

• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom warm up spice or pumpkin cakes.

Frosting and Decoration Tips

• Use accidentally vegan store-bought frostings like Betty Crocker Rich & Creamy Vanilla or Chocolate.

• Make homemade vegan buttercream with vegan butter + powdered sugar + plant milk + vanilla.

• Decorate with fresh fruit, nuts, shredded coconut, or sprinkles (check labels—some sprinkles contain beeswax or confectioner’s glaze).

Pro tip: Chill the cake before frosting—it makes spreading easier and prevents crumbling.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade Vegan Cake Mix

You might be wondering: why bother with boxed mix when you can bake from scratch? Both have their place, so let’s break it down.

Pros of Boxed Mixes

• Convenience: Ready in minutes, minimal measuring.

• Consistency: Formulated for foolproof results.

• Variety: Tons of flavors, from funfetti to red velvet.

• Availability: Easy to find at grocery stores or online.

Cons of Boxed Mixes

• Ingredients: Often contain preservatives or artificial flavors.

• Customization: Less control over sweetness, texture, and nutrition.

• Environmental impact: More packaging waste.

Pros of Homemade Mixes

• Full control over ingredients—organic, fair-trade, whole-grain, etc.

• Easy to adjust sugar, fat, or flavorings.

• Satisfying DIY feel and creativity.

When Homemade Is Worth It

• For special occasions where you want total control over the cake.

• When baking for people with multiple dietary restrictions (gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, etc.).

• When experimenting with unusual flavors.

In short, there’s no shame in the box! But if you have the time and passion, homemade can elevate your cake game.

Reading Labels: Decoding Hidden Animal Ingredients

A label may look innocent, but sometimes animal-derived ingredients hide in plain sight. Here’s what to look out for when choosing a boxed cake mix.

Common Sneaky Ingredients

• Whey or milk powder: Check chocolate, white, and some yellow cakes.

• Egg powder or dried egg whites: Watch out in “just add water” mixes.

• Gelatin: Rare in cake mixes but can appear in specialty desserts.

• Mono- and diglycerides: These emulsifiers can come from animal or plant sources; contact the company if unclear.

• Natural flavors: Ambiguous—may be dairy-derived.

Tips for Reading Labels

• Look for certified vegan symbols or plant-based certifications.

• Scan allergen statements for “contains milk, eggs” or “may contain.”

• Check the company website—many list vegan-friendly products online.

• Use vegan shopping apps (like Is It Vegan?) to scan barcodes in-store.

Pro tip: When in doubt, email or call the company. Most brands are happy to clarify their ingredients.

Best Vegan-Friendly Frostings and Toppings

A cake isn’t complete without its crown—the frosting! Luckily, several store-bought frostings are “accidentally vegan,” and homemade options are even more delicious.

Store-Bought Frostings

• Betty Crocker Rich & Creamy line: Chocolate, Vanilla, and Rainbow Chip are usually vegan.

• Pillsbury Creamy Supreme: Most flavors, including chocolate and vanilla, are vegan.

• Simple Mills Frosting: Organic, vegan, and free of artificial additives.

Homemade Vegan Frosting Recipes

• Vegan buttercream: Beat vegan butter + powdered sugar + vanilla + plant milk.

• Coconut whipped cream: Chill a can of full-fat coconut milk, scoop the solid part, and whip.

• Chocolate ganache: Melt dark chocolate chips with coconut cream for a glossy finish.

Fun Toppings

• Fresh berries or sliced fruit.

• Shredded coconut or toasted nuts.

• Vegan sprinkles (look for brands like Supernatural or Sweetapolita).

• Crushed cookies or pretzels for crunch.

Pro tip: Frost the cake while it’s slightly chilled, then let it sit at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Vegan Cake Mix Hacks

One of the best things about boxed cake mix? It’s not just for cakes! With a little creativity, you can transform a basic vegan-friendly mix into a whole range of delicious desserts. Think outside the (cake) box and try these fun ideas.

Cupcakes

Cupcakes are the most obvious remix. Simply divide your vegan cake batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for about 18–22 minutes. You’ll get perfectly portioned treats ideal for parties or meal prep.

Tips:

• Don’t overfill the liners—2/3 full is just right.

• Use an ice cream scoop for uniform sizing.

• Add a hidden center like vegan chocolate chips, jam, or nut butter.

Brownies

Want dense, chocolatey brownies without starting from scratch? Take a chocolate cake mix and:

• Use 1/2 cup of oil instead of butter

• Add just 1/4 cup plant milk (not the usual full amount)

• Mix in 1/4 cup cocoa powder for richness

• Stir in vegan chocolate chunks or walnuts

Bake in a square pan for 25–30 minutes. You’ll get thick, chewy, brownie-like bars.

Cake Donuts

Yes, donuts from cake mix are a thing—and they’re awesome. Use a donut pan and:

• Follow cake mix instructions with vegan subs

• Add 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cinnamon for bakery flavor

• Pipe into greased donut molds

• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes

Glaze with powdered sugar and plant milk or dip in melted vegan chocolate.

Cake Mix Cookies

Soft, chewy cookies in 15 minutes? Absolutely. Try this:

• Mix cake mix with 1/3 cup oil and 2 tablespoons plant milk

• Add in vegan mix-ins like sprinkles, chocolate chips, or dried fruit

• Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes

These are perfect for quick weekday desserts or kids’ snacks.

Other Ideas

• Cake truffles: Crumble baked cake, mix with frosting, roll into balls, and coat in chocolate.

• Parfaits: Layer cake cubes, coconut whipped cream, and fruit in a jar.

• Waffles: Yes, you can make cake batter waffles with a nonstick waffle iron!

Where to Buy Vegan Boxed Cake Mixes

Finding vegan cake mixes is easier than ever—if you know where to look. Here’s a quick guide to reliable places both in-store and online.

Grocery Stores

• National chains: Walmart, Target, Kroger, Safeway, and Aldi usually carry Duncan Hines, Betty Crocker, and Simple Mills.

• Natural grocers: Whole Foods, Sprouts, and local health food stores often stock King Arthur and Miss Jones.

Tips:

• Check the “natural” or “gluten-free” sections in addition to baking aisles.

• Always double-check the ingredients in-store—formulas can change.

Online Marketplaces

• Amazon: Offers a huge range of vegan cake mixes and usually lists ingredients clearly.

• Thrive Market: Specializes in organic and vegan-friendly products.

• Brand websites: Ordering direct from companies like King Arthur or Miss Jones can give you access to the full product line.

Pro tip: Set up autoship or subscribe-and-save deals for discounted prices if you bake often.

International Options

If you’re outside the U.S., local vegan shops or international e-commerce sites (like iHerb or Vegan Supply) often stock American brands. Betty Crocker and Duncan Hines are also widely available in Canada, the UK, and Australia.

Budget-Friendly Vegan Baking

Think vegan cake mix baking has to be expensive? Think again. There are several ways to enjoy delicious desserts without breaking the bank.

Affordable Vegan Cake Mix Brands

• Duncan Hines: One of the cheapest and easiest to find; many mixes are accidentally vegan.

• Betty Crocker: Often on sale and frequently includes buy-one-get-one deals.

• Generic/store brands: Some no-name or store-brand mixes are vegan-friendly. Always check the label.

Pro tip: Compare the cost per ounce and choose the one with fewer unnecessary additives.

Money-Saving Substitutes

Skip the pricey egg replacers and go DIY:

• Flaxseed and water (flax eggs) cost pennies.

• Use oil instead of vegan butter.

• Applesauce, bananas, or even mashed sweet potatoes work well and are budget-friendly.

Stretch One Box Into Multiple Desserts

Want more bang for your buck? Try:

• Making mini cupcakes or bite-sized cake pops

• Cutting cake into squares and freezing half

• Turning leftovers into trifles, parfaits, or pudding desserts

You can get 12+ servings from one $2–$4 box if you’re creative.

Vegan Cake Mixes for Special Diets

Not all vegans eat the same way. Some avoid gluten, soy, or nuts. Luckily, there are boxed cake mixes that cater to nearly every dietary need.

Gluten-Free & Vegan

• Simple Mills: Almond flour base, no gluten, dairy, or soy.

• King Arthur: Gluten-free and labeled vegan on select products.

• Namaste Foods: Certified gluten-free and plant-based; perfect for allergy-conscious households.

Soy-Free Vegan Mixes

• Check labels on mainstream brands like Duncan Hines and Betty Crocker—many are naturally soy-free.

• Miss Jones Baking Co.: Organic and often soy-free (double-check for specific flavors).

Nut-Free Options

• Most traditional boxed mixes (e.g., Betty Crocker) are nut-free but may be processed in facilities that handle nuts.

• For true nut-free environments, look for certified allergen-free brands like Cherrybrook Kitchen.

Pro tip: Always check the allergen statement and call the company if in doubt—especially if baking for someone with severe allergies.

Reader Recommendations and Reviews

Want the inside scoop on which vegan cake mixes are really worth your money? We scoured forums, vegan Facebook groups, and Reddit threads to bring you these fan favorites.

Top Picks by Real Bakers

1. Duncan Hines Devil’s Food Cake Mix

   • “Tastes just like grandma’s chocolate cake!”

   • Easy to veganize with flax eggs and almond milk.

2. Betty Crocker Rainbow Chip

   • “Perfect for birthdays and parties—kids love it.”

   • Use vegan frosting and sprinkles for a colorful finish.

3. Miss Jones Confetti Pop

   • “So fun, so fluffy, and it’s organic? Win-win.”

   • Slightly pricier but worth it for the quality.

4. King Arthur Gluten-Free Yellow Cake Mix

   • “No one knew it was gluten-free and vegan. Best texture hands-down.”

   • Great with homemade vegan lemon frosting.

5. Simple Mills Chocolate Cake & Muffin Mix

   • “Healthy but still indulgent. Love that it’s low sugar too.”

   • Needs extra milk for a moist result, but the flavor is rich and dark.

Where They’re Talking

• Reddit (r/vegan)

• Facebook vegan cooking groups

• YouTube vegan bakers’ reviews

• Amazon and Target user reviews

Pro tip: If in doubt, try a few brands and keep a journal of results. Every oven and palate is different!

Conclusion

So, what’s the sweet takeaway here? Vegan boxed cake mixes have come a long way, and today, they’re as easy, delicious, and versatile as any conventional mix you’d grab off the shelf. Whether you go with the accidentally vegan classics like Duncan Hines and Betty Crocker or the newer, health-forward brands like Simple Mills, King Arthur, and Miss Jones, you have a world of options at your fingertips.

The beauty of vegan cake baking is its flexibility. With a few smart swaps—like flax eggs, plant-based milk, and vegan butter—you can transform nearly any cake mix into a cruelty-free dessert that everyone at the table can enjoy. And if you’re feeling playful, don’t stop at cakes. Turn that mix into cupcakes, donuts, cookies, or even waffles. The possibilities are endless.

It’s also empowering to know how to read labels and spot hidden animal ingredients. Once you’ve mastered this, you’re no longer at the mercy of limited vegan-specific labels—you’ll recognize vegan-friendly options everywhere.

Lastly, baking on a budget or with special dietary needs doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. There’s a vegan cake mix for every diet, every wallet, and every craving. So go ahead: bake that cake, frost it with love, and share it with friends, knowing you’re making a kind, sustainable, and mouthwatering choice.

FAQs

1. Are all boxed cake mixes vegan if you replace the eggs?

No, not all boxed cake mixes are vegan even if you replace the eggs. Some mixes contain dairy-based ingredients like whey, milk powder, or non-vegan emulsifiers right in the dry mix. Always check the ingredient list first. That said, many popular brands like Duncan Hines and Betty Crocker offer accidentally vegan dry mixes, and with egg replacements, they bake up beautifully vegan.

2. What’s the best vegan cake mix for beginners?

For beginners, Duncan Hines Classic Yellow or Devil’s Food cake mixes are a great place to start. They’re affordable, easy to find, and work well with simple vegan substitutes like flax eggs or commercial egg replacers. Betty Crocker mixes also perform consistently and pair well with accidentally vegan frostings. If you want to go a little fancier, try Miss Jones Confetti Pop mix—it’s organic, plant-based, and practically foolproof.

3. Can I make cupcakes with boxed vegan cake mix?

Absolutely! Boxed vegan cake mix is actually perfect for cupcakes. Just divide the batter into lined muffin tins (fill about two-thirds full), bake for 18–22 minutes at 350°F (175°C), and you’re good to go. Cupcakes bake faster than full cakes, so keep an eye on them toward the end of baking. And don’t forget the fun part—frosting and decorating with vegan sprinkles, fruit, or chocolate shavings.

4. Do vegan cake mixes taste as good as regular ones?

Yes—and sometimes even better! Many people find vegan cakes surprisingly moist and rich, especially when using creative egg and dairy substitutes. Ingredients like flax eggs, applesauce, and non-dairy milks can add extra moisture and subtle flavors. Plus, you have the freedom to adjust sweetness and texture to your liking, making vegan cakes just as satisfying, if not more so, than their non-vegan counterparts.

5. Where can I find vegan frosting to go with my cake?

You have two main options. First, many store-bought frostings are accidentally vegan—look for Betty Crocker Rich & Creamy or Pillsbury Creamy Supreme in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and funfetti. Second, you can easily make homemade vegan frosting with vegan butter, powdered sugar, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract. If you want a shortcut, Simple Mills and Miss Jones also offer organic vegan frostings, often found in the natural foods section.