MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful choice for any occasion. Perfectly sweet and incredibly fluffy, this cake captures the essence of traditional carrot cake without any eggs or dairy. It’s not only suitable for vegans but also a hit among non-vegan friends and family. With its rich flavor and creamy frosting, this dessert will certainly become a favorite in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The blend of spices and sweetness makes every bite delicious.
- Versatile Occasions: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or simply as a sweet treat.
- Gluten-Free Friendly: Easily swap in gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary needs.
- Decadent Frosting: The creamy vegan cream cheese frosting elevates this cake to the next level.
Tools and Preparation
Getting the right tools is essential for baking. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful cake.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Three 8” cake pans
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Saves time and ensures that your batter is well-mixed.
- Mixing bowls: Needed for combining ingredients efficiently without spilling.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in ingredients gently without overmixing.
Ingredients
- 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” cake pans with cooking oil and parchment paper. Grate the carrots if you haven’t done so already.
Step 2: Prepare Vegan Buttermilk
Mix together the vegan buttermilk by combining the dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar. Let it sit until thickened.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
all-purpose flour or cake flour
baking powder
baking soda
ground cinnamon
ground ginger
nutmeg
cardamom
sea salt
Set aside once combined.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, whisk together:
1. Melted vegan butter
2. Granulated sugar
3. Light brown sugar
Add in the dairy-free yogurt and vanilla extract until mixed well.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in three increments while alternating with pouring in the vegan buttermilk. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the grated carrots.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for about 28–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Down
Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Ensure they are completely cooled before frosting.
Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting
Cream together melted vegan butter and cream cheese using a stand mixer or hand mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar until smooth. If necessary, mix in dairy-free milk for desired consistency.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Apply about 1/3 cup of cream cheese frosting between each layer of cake. Cover the sides with remaining frosting. If desired, reserve some frosting to pipe decorative carrots on top using food coloring.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for up to three months. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Serve MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake is not just a treat for vegans; it delights everyone at the table. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious cake that will impress your guests.
Classic Slice
- Serve a generous slice of the cake plain or with an extra dollop of cream cheese frosting on top for a traditional dessert experience.
Fruit Garnish
- Add fresh fruit like berries or sliced oranges around the plate. This adds a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Ice Cream Indulgence
- Pair each slice with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Coffee Companion
- Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverage complements the moistness and flavors of the carrot cake beautifully.
Celebration Layer Cake
- For special occasions, stack layers of this cake with frosting in between. Decorate with nuts or edible flowers for an elegant touch.
Mini Cupcakes
- Transform leftover batter into mini cupcakes. These bite-sized treats make perfect party favors and are easy to share.
How to Perfect MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Achieving the perfect vegan carrot cake is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time.
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Use Fresh Carrots: Freshly grated carrots bring moisture and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded bags as they can be dry.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all wet ingredients like yogurt and vegan buttermilk are at room temperature for proper mixing and consistency.
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Do Not Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to denser textures.
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Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your layers to cool completely before adding frosting. This prevents melting and sliding.
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Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste. Adding nutmeg or cloves can enhance the flavor profile.
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Storage Matters: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing side dishes with your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors perfectly.
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Vegan Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping enhances the sweetness of carrot cake without overpowering it.
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Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy, nutritious option that balances sweetness while providing a healthy dose of fiber.
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Roasted Nuts: Crunchy roasted almonds or walnuts add texture and contrast nicely against the soft cake layers.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness, making it a refreshing side dish next to rich carrot cake.
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Green Salad: A light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette cleanses the palate after indulging in sweet desserts, providing balance.
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Herbed Tea Sandwiches: Savory sandwiches bring variety to the table, making for an enjoyable tasting experience alongside dessert.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add a tropical twist that pairs well with the spiced flavors in carrot cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking the MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting can be a joy, but there are some common mistakes to watch for.
- Skipping the grating step: Always grate your carrots finely. This ensures they blend well into the batter and keeps the cake texture light.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Use proper measuring cups and spoons. Accurate measurements are key to achieving that perfect cake consistency.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a moist, fluffy one.
- Ignoring cooling time: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting. Frosting warm cakes can cause the frosting to melt off.
- Neglecting the vegan buttermilk: Don’t skip this step! It adds moisture and flavor, making your carrot cake truly delicious.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover carrot cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap slices of cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds on medium power.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting that might help you.
Can I make this vegan carrot cake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How do I store leftovers of MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Is it possible to reduce sugar in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use less sugar or substitute with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar.
What can I use instead of vegan cream cheese for frosting?
You can use coconut cream or a homemade cashew cream as alternatives if you prefer.
Final Thoughts
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, raisins, or even pineapple for extra flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table—vegan or not! Give it a try today!
MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Description
Indulge in the delight of our MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting, a scrumptious dessert that beautifully combines flavors and textures. This cake is a crowd-pleaser, boasting a fluffy, tender crumb thanks to freshly grated carrots and rich spices. With the sweetness of two types of sugar and the luxurious creaminess of vegan cream cheese frosting, each bite offers a heavenly experience. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion, this recipe is easy to prepare in just one bowl—making cleanup a breeze! Whether you’re vegan or simply seeking a delicious treat, this carrot cake is sure to impress everyone at your table.
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 oven to 350°F and prepare three 8” cake pans with parchment paper.
- Make vegan buttermilk by mixing dairy-free milk and apple cider vinegar; set aside.
- In one bowl, whisk dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix melted vegan butter with sugars until blended; add yogurt and vanilla.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet mixture while alternating with vegan buttermilk; fold in grated carrots.
- Divide batter into pans and bake for 28–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes before frosting with prepared cream cheese frosting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
