MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that everyone will love, even those who aren’t vegan. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any occasion where a sweet touch is needed, this cake stands out with its rich flavors and fluffy texture. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to whip it up in no time while impressing your friends and family with its taste and presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: This cake is bursting with warm spices and natural sweetness from carrots, making every bite a delight.
- Easy to Make: With just one bowl required for mixing, cleanup is a breeze!
- Vegan & Gluten-Free Option: Suitable for various dietary preferences, this cake caters to vegans and gluten-free eaters alike.
- Versatile Frosting: The cream cheese frosting can be customized with food colors for special occasions or kept simple for everyday enjoyment.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Even non-vegan friends will rave about this cake, making it perfect for gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather the necessary tools to make your baking experience seamless.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula
- 8-inch cake pans (3)
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter and fluffy frosting without much effort.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping ingredients organized and preventing mess while combining components.
- Spatula: Perfect for folding in ingredients gently without overmixing, ensuring a light cake texture.
Ingredients
This is honestly the best vegan carrot cake you’ll ever have, and it’s a crowd favorite with even non-vegan eaters. No eggs, no dairy, one bowl, and easily gluten free! This carrot cake is topped with a super lush and creamy dairy-free cream cheese frosting. Soon to be your favorite cake recipe ever!
For the Cake
- 4 cups (360 g) grated carrots, about 6-8 large carrots
- 2/3 cup (160 mL) vegan buttermilk, room temperature
- 3 1/2 (440 g) cups all-purpose flour or cake flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp cardamom
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 1/4 cups (250 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 cup (226 g) vegan butter, melted and cooled to room temperature (or sub neutral oil)
- 2/3 cup (150 g) dairy-free yogurt, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting
- 1 batch vegan cream cheese frosting
How to Make MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line three 8-inch cake pans with cooking oil and parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare Vegan Buttermilk
In a mixing bowl, combine the dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar. Allow it to sit at room temperature to curdle slightly.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and sea salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted vegan butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar until combined. Add in the dairy-free yogurt and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures
Gradually add in the dry ingredient mix in increments while alternating with the vegan buttermilk. Mix just until there are no visible dry streaks left. Gently fold in the grated carrots.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for about 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center of each cake.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, allow them to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting
Using either a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream together vegan butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually sift in powdered sugar while mixing until well blended.
Step 9: Frost Your Cake
Once cakes are fully cooled, frost between layers using about 1/3 cup of frosting per layer. Apply frosting on top and around sides as desired.
Step 10: Decorate (Optional)
If you wish to pipe decorations onto your cake sides or top, reserve some frosting before adding color. Use piping tips as desired for decoration.
Step 11: Store Leftovers
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for up to three months.
How to Serve MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is all about enhancing its delightful flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious cake that will impress your guests.
Classic Slice
- Enjoy a generous slice topped with extra cream cheese frosting for a rich treat.
With Fresh Fruits
- Serve alongside fresh fruits like berries or slices of orange to balance the sweetness and add a refreshing element.
Ice Cream Pairing
- Complement your carrot cake with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Tea or Coffee
- Pair your cake with a warm cup of tea or coffee; the spices in the cake harmonize beautifully with these beverages.
Decorative Garnish
- Top individual slices with chopped walnuts or shredded coconut for added crunch and visual appeal.
Celebration Cake
- Use this cake for birthdays or special occasions, decorating it elaborately for the perfect centerpiece.
How to Perfect MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
To ensure your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh carrots and baking ingredients for the best flavor and texture in your cake.
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Room Temperature Items: Make sure your vegan butter, yogurt, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier cake.
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Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to avoid a dense cake. Stop mixing as soon as there are no dry streaks.
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Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cakes around 25 minutes. Ovens can vary, so don’t wait until the full baking time has passed.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures a nice finish.
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Customize Your Frosting: Add a touch of lemon zest or vanilla extract to your cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of flavor.
Best Side Dishes for MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Enhance your dessert experience by pairing your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting with these delightful side dishes.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping adds a tropical flair that complements the spices in the carrot cake.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness that balances out the richness of the cake.
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Chia Seed Pudding: Creamy and nutritious, chia pudding offers a healthy contrast while still feeling indulgent.
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Vegan Cheese Platter: A selection of vegan cheeses can create an interesting savory contrast to the sweet carrot cake.
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Nuts & Dried Fruits Mix: Serving mixed nuts and dried fruits adds texture and enhances the overall flavor experience of the meal.
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Green Salad: A simple green salad dressed lightly can cleanse the palate between bites of sweet carrot cake, making each taste even more enjoyable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting can be a breeze, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until no dry streaks remain for a light texture.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Frosting a warm cake can lead to melted frosting. Always let your cakes cool completely before applying frosting.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring tools for flour and sugar, as inaccurate measurements can affect the final product.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Room temperature ingredients blend better. Make sure your vegan buttermilk and yogurt are at room temperature before mixing.
- Ignoring Baking Times: Every oven is different. Check your cakes a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- The cake stays fresh for up to 4 days.
Freezing MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat slices for about 15-20 seconds on medium power.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for a gluten-free version of this delicious cake.
How can I customize the frosting?
Feel free to add flavors like lemon or almond extract to the cream cheese frosting for a unique twist!
What can I use instead of vegan butter?
You can substitute vegan butter with neutral oils such as coconut oil or canola oil if needed.
Is this recipe nut-free?
Yes! This recipe is nut-free, making it suitable for those with nut allergies. Just check your yogurt and cream cheese brands for any potential allergens.
How long does it take to prepare this carrot cake?
The total time is about 45 minutes, which includes both prep and baking times. Perfect for a quick dessert!
Final Thoughts
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding nuts, dried fruits, or spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy sharing it at your next gathering!
MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting, a dessert that transcends dietary preferences. This cake captivates with its rich flavors from warm spices and naturally sweet carrots, making it a favorite for birthdays, celebrations, or any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness. With an easy one-bowl preparation, you can impress friends and family without the hassle. The fluffy texture combined with a creamy, dairy-free frosting ensures this cake is both satisfying and visually appealing. Perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike, this recipe guarantees smiles all around.
Ingredients
- 4 cups grated carrots
- 2/3 cup vegan buttermilk
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp cardamom
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 cup vegan butter
- 2/3 cup dairy-free yogurt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 batch vegan cream cheese frosting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease three 8-inch cake pans and line with parchment paper.
- Prepare vegan buttermilk by mixing dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar; let it curdle.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix melted vegan butter with sugars until smooth; add yogurt and vanilla.
- Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients while alternating with buttermilk until just mixed. Fold in grated carrots.
- Divide batter among pans and bake for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool layers before frosting with vegan cream cheese frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
