As someone who practices a plant-based diet, I was really happy when I discovered that I could make a vegan cake out of one of the most edible weeds. Yes, you read that right! I’m talking about stinging nettles, a nettle vegan cake! After a quick 30-second blanch, they lose their stinginess. Nettles are packed with nutrients and benefits for your body, and you can use them to make delicious dishes like this healthy vegan cake!

Alessandro Vitale aka Spicy Moustache holding a slice of nettle cake and a basket of stinging nettle

The Health Benefits of Nettles

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the numerous health benefits that nettles bring to the table.

  1. Rich in Nutrients: Nettles are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, essential for overall health and well-being.
  1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Nettles contain compounds that reduce inflammation, making them beneficial for those with arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
  1. Supports Digestive Health: High in fiber, nettles aid digestion and promote a healthy gut.
  1. Boosts Immune System: The high vitamin C content helps strengthen your immune system. 
  1. Detoxifying: Nettles are known for their detoxifying properties, helping to cleanse the body of toxins. 
  1. Improves Skin Health: The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of nettles contribute to healthier skin.
Nettle Weeds in a basket

Nettle Vegan Cake Recipe

Base Ingredients:

  • 1 x Cup Walnut
  • 1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds
  • 1 x Pinch of sea salt
  • 5-6 x Tsp. date paste
  • 1 tsp. maple syrup

Nettle Layer Ingredients:

  • 2 cups nettle shots
  • 1 x Cup cashews soaked for 4 hours
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup Almond milk
  • 1/2 x Lemon zest
  • 1/2 x Lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup melted coconut butter

Blueberry layer Ingredients:

  • 1 x Cup frozen blueberries
  • 1 x Cup cashews soaked for 4 hours
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp. almond milk
  • 1/2 x Lemon zest
  • 1/2 x lemon juice
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 1/2 cup melted coconut butter

Base Recipe:

  1. Collect nettles (I usually forage them along the river)
  2. Blanch nettles for 30 seconds and rinses in cold water
  3. Drain them and set aside
  4. Mix 1/2 cup of Pumpkin Seeds and 1 cup walnuts and blend them using a blender
  5. Add 5–6 tsp. of date paste and 1 tsp. of maple syrup
  6. Mix by hand, spread evenly in a container, and place in the fridge

Nettle Layer Recipe:

  1. Soak 1 x Cup cashews for 4 hours and put in a blender, then add nettles
  2. Add 1/2 x Lemon juice and 1/2 x Lemon zest
  3. Add 1/4 cup of maple syrup and 1/4 cup Almond milk
  4. Add 1/2 cup of melted coconut butter
  5. Blend all together and spread evenly into the base
  6. Cover and freeze, then add a blueberry layer

NOTE: make sure each layer is set before adding a new one

Final Thoughts

As gardeners, we have the unique opportunity to connect with nature and bring its gifts into our kitchens, and this nettle vegan cake is the perfect example. It’s also a great activity to do with your family and friends to show each other’s baking skills. So why not enjoy a slice of cake that’s as good for your health as it is for your taste buds?

Happy baking!

Alessandro Vitale aka Spicy Moustache holding a slice of nettle cake and a basket of stinging nettle