MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is sure to impress everyone at your next gathering, vegan or not! With no eggs or dairy involved, this delightful dessert is simple to prepare and can easily be made gluten-free. The rich, creamy frosting adds an irresistible touch that makes it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon treat. Experience the blend of spices and sweetness that will make this cake your new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: Each bite is packed with the warm spices of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the carrots.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe requires only one bowl and minimal cleanup, making it approachable even for novice bakers.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a weekday treat.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Even non-vegan friends will love this cake; it’s so moist and flavorful that they won’t even notice it’s vegan!
- Gluten-Free Option: Easily swap out regular flour for a gluten-free blend to accommodate different dietary needs.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making this MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cake pans (three 8-inch)
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: These tools save time and ensure your batter is mixed evenly without over-mixing.
- Rubber Spatula: Perfect for folding in ingredients gently without deflating the batter.
- Cake Pans: Using three pans allows you to create layers easily, making your cake visually stunning.
Ingredients
This is honestly the best vegan carrot cake you’ll ever have. Here are the ingredients needed for this delicious recipe:
- 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
- 1 batch vegan cream cheese frosting
How to Make MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line three 8-inch cake pans with cooking oil and parchment paper. Ensure your carrots are grated before proceeding.
Step 2: Prepare Vegan Buttermilk
In a small bowl, mix together the dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly to create your vegan buttermilk.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, and sea salt until well combined.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, whisk together melted vegan butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add in dairy-free yogurt and vanilla extract; mix until just combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture in three increments while alternating with pouring in the prepared vegan buttermilk. Be careful not to over-mix; stop when there are no dry streaks left. Gently fold in the grated carrots.
Step 6: Bake Cakes
Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 28–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Cakes
Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Do not frost until they’re completely cool.
Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat together vegan butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually sift in powdered sugar while mixing until fully combined; add dairy-free milk if needed for smoothness.
Step 9: Frost Your Cake
Once cakes are cool, spread about 1/3 cup of frosting between each layer before coating the sides with frosting as desired. For decoration, reserve some frosting to pipe designs onto the cake.
Step 10: Store Leftovers
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for up to three months for later enjoyment.
How to Serve MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate the experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will impress your guests.
Classic Slice
- Serve a generous slice of cake on a dessert plate, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.
With Fresh Fruits
- Pair the cake with fresh fruits like berries or sliced oranges. The acidity balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
A Scoop of Sorbet
- Add a scoop of lemon or raspberry sorbet on the side for a refreshing contrast to the rich frosting.
Coffee Companion
- Coffee is a great pairing; serve a cup of your favorite brew alongside to enhance the flavors.
Festive Decorations
- Decorate each slice with edible flowers or mint leaves for an elegant presentation at special occasions.
Custom Cupcakes
- Transform the cake into cupcakes for easy serving at parties. Top each with a swirl of cream cheese frosting.
How to Perfect MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Perfecting your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting can take your baking skills to the next level. Here are some tips to ensure success every time you bake this delicious cake.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the carrots and yogurt, are fresh. This enhances flavor and texture.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can result in a dense texture.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures neat layers.
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Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the sugar levels according to your taste preference or dietary needs.
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Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to customize flavor profiles that you love.
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Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer for longer shelf life, ensuring it remains moist.
Best Side Dishes for MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing side dishes with your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and a hint of tartness that complements the sweetness of carrot cake.
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Vegan Ice Cream: Dairy-free ice cream can be an indulgent treat that pairs well with the rich flavors of the cake.
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Chia Seed Pudding: Light and nutritious, chia pudding offers a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the carrot cake’s density.
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Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad dressed with herbs provides a savory balance to the sweet dessert.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats bring a tropical flair, making them a delightful accompaniment.
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Roasted Nuts: A bowl of mixed roasted nuts can add crunchiness, enhancing textures when enjoyed alongside slices of cake.
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Minty Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in mint and lime brings brightness that cuts through richness.
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Chocolate Dipped Fruit: For another sweet option, chocolate-dipped strawberries or bananas provide an elegant touch that’s hard to resist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until there are no dry streaks left.
- Not cooling cakes properly: Frosting warm cakes can cause the frosting to melt. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
- Skipping the vegan buttermilk: This ingredient adds moisture and flavor. Don’t skip it; make sure to mix dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar.
- Incorrect oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot can burn the cake’s edges while leaving the center raw. Always preheat your oven and check its accuracy.
- Using stale ingredients: Old baking powder or spices can affect the cake’s rise and flavor. Ensure all your ingredients are fresh.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The cake lasts up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap the cake slices tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap slices in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on low for 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover it, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting so special?
This recipe is loved for its incredible moisture and rich flavor, even without eggs or dairy. It’s perfect for any occasion!
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a delicious gluten-free vegan carrot cake.
How do I store leftover vegan carrot cake?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Add nuts, raisins, or pineapple for added texture and flavor. You can also adjust spices according to your preference.
Is there a way to make this recipe sugar-free?
You can use natural sweeteners like mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce instead of sugar, adjusting liquid ingredients accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite add-ins or frostings. It’s perfect for celebrations or just a cozy treat at home. Try it today, and enjoy every bite!
MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in a slice of pure bliss with this MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual afternoon treats. Packed with the warm flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, each bite is a celebration of sweetness and spice. The rich vegan cream cheese frosting adds an irresistible touch, ensuring that even non-vegan friends will be reaching for seconds. Plus, this cake can easily be made gluten-free by swapping out regular flour for a gluten-free blend.
Ingredients
- 4 cups grated carrots
- 2/3 cup vegan buttermilk
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose or gluten-free flour
- 1 cup vegan butter
- 1 batch vegan cream cheese frosting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch cake pans with oil and parchment paper.
- Create vegan buttermilk by mixing dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar; let sit for 5 minutes.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt. In another bowl, mix melted vegan butter with sugars until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients alternately with the prepared buttermilk until just mixed; fold in grated carrots.
- Divide batter among prepared pans and bake for 28–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes completely before frosting with vegan cream cheese frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
