When most people think of a vegan dessert, they probably imagine something along the lines of  zucchini brownies or  chocolate chip kale cookies (I'm sorry, but no. Just... no). As a firm believer in the separation of church (chocolate) and state (vegetables), this match making is just plain wrong. If I'm going to indulge, I'm going to do it right—and I'm going to do it with these vegan chocolate cupcakes.

sweet, candy, cake, chocolate
Grace Becker

We're not all Betty Crocker, but luckily with just one other ingredient, you can turn her cake mix into a treat that is guaranteed to fool even the most astute bakers. Whether you're actually vegan, out of eggs, or just lazy and broke, this recipe has got you covered.

Accidentally Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes

  • Prep Time:5 mins
  • Cook Time:15 mins
  • Total Time:20 mins
  • Servings:22
  • Easy

    Ingredients

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix
  • 1 1/2 cups seltzer water 12 oz
  • 1 container icing
  • Any additional toppings
candy, cream, cake, cupcake, chocolate
Grace Becker
  • Step 1

    Preheat the oven according to box instructions. In a large bowl, mix together 1 box of cake mix and 12 oz, or 1 1/2 cups, of seltzer water.

    mousse, chocolate cake, cake, chocolate
    Grace Becker
  • Step 2

    Place batter in cups (about 3/4 full). Place in the oven and bake according to box instructions (probably 15-20 minutes).

    coffee, cake, chocolate
    Grace Becker
  • Step 3

    Remove from oven, ice with your vegan boxed icing, and garnish to your liking.

    truffle, sweet, candy, chocolate
    Grace Becker

If you're feeling ambitious, try recreating these boozy cupcakes or experimenting with these next-level ingredients. Don't limit yourself. Life is what you bake it.