i made a modified version of this for a birthday and it was a hit!! use spiced rum instead of vanilla for a more unique flavor & add it to the frosting slowly while tasting so you can get the desired flavor. for the vegan version, sub plant milk; 2 cups unsweet applesauce to sub the 4 eggs; country crock plant cream cream and earth balance stick butter in the frosting. other possible subs, olive oil 1:1 for a neutral oil; instant coffee or more dutch cocoa to sub espresso powder