MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that stands out for its rich flavor and moist texture. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion, this cake will impress even the most discerning palates, including non-vegans. With no eggs or dairy, it offers a simple yet indulgent dessert option. The creamy dairy-free frosting adds the perfect finishing touch to this scrumptious cake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unmatched Flavor: This vegan carrot cake bursts with spices and sweetness, ensuring every bite is a delight.
- One-Bowl Wonder: Minimal cleanup required! Mix everything in one bowl for an easy baking experience.
- Versatile & Adaptable: Easily modify this recipe to suit gluten-free diets or add nuts and raisins for extra texture.
- Impressive Presentation: The creamy frosting and decorative piping make it look as good as it tastes—perfect for gatherings!
- Crowd Favorite: Loved by vegans and non-vegans alike, this cake is sure to be a hit at any event.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into baking this amazing cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Parchment paper
- Cake pans (three 8-inch)
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter and fluffy frosting without much effort.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spilling.
- Cooling rack: Ensures your cakes cool evenly, preventing sogginess before frosting.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 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. Prepare three 8-inch cake pans by greasing them with cooking oil and lining them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Create the Vegan Buttermilk
Grate the carrots and set them aside. In a small bowl, mix together the dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar to create your vegan buttermilk.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
All purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Ground cinnamon
Ground ginger
Nutmeg
Cardamom
Sea salt
Set aside once mixed.
Step 4: Make the Batter
In another large bowl, whisk together the melted vegan butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined. Add in the dairy-free yogurt and vanilla extract; mix just until combined. Gradually add in the dry ingredients along with the vegan buttermilk in about three increments. Be careful not to overmix; fold in the grated carrots gently until just incorporated.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 28–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool Down
Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before frosting.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat together vegan butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually sift in powdered sugar, mixing well between each addition. If needed, add 1–2 tablespoons of dairy-free milk to achieve desired consistency.
Step 8: Frost and Decorate
Once cakes are completely cool, frost by spreading about 1/3 cup of frosting between each layer before coating the sides of the cake. For decorative piping on top or sides, reserve some frosting to color using vegan food coloring.
Enjoy your delicious MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting!
How to Serve MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake is just as important as making it. The right presentation and accompaniments can elevate your cake to a new level of deliciousness. Here are some creative serving suggestions.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Top the cake with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
- Citrus slices: Oranges or lemons add a refreshing zest that complements the sweetness of the cake.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the spiced carrot cake.
- Coconut Ice Cream: For a tropical twist, try pairing it with rich coconut ice cream.
Garnish with Nuts
- Chopped Walnuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Pecans: Toasted pecans can enhance both the texture and taste, bringing out the warmth of the spices.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea pairs beautifully with the spices in the cake.
- Coffee: A rich coffee enhances the flavors of the cake, making for a perfect afternoon treat.
How to Perfect MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
To achieve the best results with your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh carrots and high-quality vegan butter for a moist texture and rich flavor.
- Measure Accurately: Accurate measurements are vital for baking. Use kitchen scales if possible to ensure precision.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to maintain the cake’s fluffiness; overmixing can lead to dense cake.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Ensure your cakes are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze them for longer storage without losing moisture.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spice levels according to your taste preferences; this can create a unique flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Complement your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake with delicious side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the cake.
- Vegan Cheesecake Bites: Mini vegan cheesecakes offer a rich texture that pairs well without overpowering flavors.
- Chia Pudding: This healthy dessert adds a creamy contrast and nutritious boost alongside your carrot cake.
- Savory Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted veggies can provide a savory balance to the sweet dessert.
- Cashew Cream Dip: This creamy dip offers a nice contrast when served alongside slices of cake for additional indulgence.
- Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A light salad can cleanse your palate and refresh after enjoying dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.
- Skipping the grating: Always use freshly grated carrots for the best texture and moisture. Pre-packaged grated carrots can be drier and less flavorful.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science! Use a kitchen scale or standard measuring cups to ensure your ratios are correct for perfect results.
- Overmixing the batter: Gently fold in ingredients to avoid a dense cake. Mix just until you see no dry flour streaks to keep it light and airy.
- Frosting too soon: Patience is key. Make sure your cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure you’re baking at the right temperature for even cooking.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Keep the cake covered to maintain moisture and prevent it from absorbing other odors.
Freezing MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap slices of the carrot cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place slices on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds. Check and heat in additional 10-second bursts if needed.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this the best MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting?
The combination of freshly grated carrots, vegan butter, and dairy-free yogurt creates an incredibly moist cake that everyone loves, whether vegan or not!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How do I customize my MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake?
Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or spices like cloves and allspice to enhance flavors further. You can also experiment with different frostings!
How long does this cake last?
If stored properly in an airtight container, this cake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting offers a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavor and moist texture, it’s sure to become a favorite dessert among friends and family. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your preferred add-ins or toppings!
MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in this MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting, a delectable treat that brings together the deliciousness of traditional carrot cake and plant-based goodness. Bursting with rich flavors, this cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion where dessert steals the show. Made without eggs or dairy, it features a moist texture complemented by a creamy vegan frosting that will impress everyone, even non-vegans. Easy to make and adaptable for gluten-free diets or variations with nuts and raisins, this one-bowl wonder is as delightful to prepare as it is to devour.
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 your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch cake pans lined with parchment paper.
- Create vegan buttermilk by mixing dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar; set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine melted vegan butter with sugars until smooth. Add yogurt and vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and buttermilk until just combined. Fold in grated carrots gently.
- Divide batter among prepared pans and bake for 28–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes on a rack before frosting with prepared vegan cream cheese frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
