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 don’t follow a vegan lifestyle. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet indulgence, this cake combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the creaminess of dairy-free frosting. With no eggs or dairy involved, and being easily adaptable to gluten-free diets, this cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Moist: This carrot cake stays moist and fluffy thanks to the grated carrots and vegan yogurt.
- Easy to Make: With just one bowl needed for mixing, cleanup is a breeze!
- Crowd Pleaser: Even non-vegan friends will ask for seconds—it’s simply that good!
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices and sweetness to suit your taste.
- Eye-Catching Decoration: The creamy frosting makes it look as good as it tastes, perfect for celebrations.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making this amazing carrot cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Three 8-inch cake pans
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: These help you achieve a smooth batter without over-mixing.
- Cake pans: Properly sized pans ensure even baking and easy layer separation.
- Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining dry ingredients effectively.
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 (175°C). Line three 8-inch cake pans with cooking oil and parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare Vegan Buttermilk
Grate the carrots if you haven’t done so already. Then mix together the dairy-free milk with apple cider vinegar in a bowl to create your vegan buttermilk.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients at once or pre-mix them in another bowl. This includes flour, spices, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Mix Batter
In another large bowl, whisk together the melted vegan butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until combined. Add in the dairy-free yogurt and vanilla extract; mix until just combined. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients in about three increments while alternating with the vegan buttermilk. Be cautious not to overmix—stop when there are no dry streaks left. Gently fold in grated carrots.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly into prepared cake pans. Bake for about 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool Cakes
Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Ensure they are completely cool before frosting.
Step 7: Make Frosting
For frosting preparation, cream together melted vegan butter and cream cheese using either a stand mixer or hand mixer in a large bowl. Gradually sift in powdered sugar one cup at a time while beating until fully combined. If needed, add in 1-2 tablespoons of dairy-free milk for smoother texture.
Step 8: Frost Your Cake
Frost between layers using about 1/3 cup of frosting per layer while coating the sides of the cake as well. If desired, reserve some frosting to pipe decorative carrots on top using food coloring.
Now you’re ready to serve your delicious MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting! Enjoy every bite!
How to Serve MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, holiday gathering, or just a treat for yourself. Here are some creative ways to serve it and make your dessert table shine.
Classic Slice
- Serve a generous slice of the cake on a plate, topped with a dollop of extra cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.
Cupcake Version
- Transform the cake into individual cupcakes. Bake in cupcake liners for about 20-25 minutes, then frost each one with cream cheese frosting for easy serving.
Layered Dessert Parfait
- Crumble pieces of the carrot cake and layer them in a glass with dairy-free yogurt and fruits like berries or bananas. Top with shredded carrots for an eye-catching finish.
Afternoon Tea Delight
- Pair slices of the cake with herbal tea or coffee. The spices in the cake complement warm beverages beautifully.
Festive Decoration
- Garnish slices with edible flowers or candied orange peel to elevate the presentation and make it feel extra special.
How to Perfect MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
To ensure your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use kitchen scales for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar, to achieve the best texture.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your vegan buttermilk and dairy-free yogurt are at room temperature for better mixing and consistency.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Check Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done!
- Cool Completely: Allow cakes to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting or sliding of the cream cheese frosting.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze slices wrapped tightly for longer storage.
Best Side Dishes for MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing sides with your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy coconut whipped cream adds richness without overpowering flavors.
- Spiced Almonds: Roasted almonds seasoned with cinnamon make for a crunchy snack alongside your dessert.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding offers a nutritious option that complements the flavors in carrot cake.
- Herbal Tea Selection: A variety of herbal teas can accentuate the spices in your cake, making every bite delightful.
- Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut milk-based ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
- Dark Chocolate Bark: Serve pieces of dark chocolate bark sprinkled with sea salt for an indulgent pairing that balances sweetness.
- Savory Veggie Platter: Crunchy vegetables like carrots, celery, and cucumbers add a savory crunch that offsets sweet desserts nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
-
Skipping the Grating: Failing to properly grate the carrots can lead to uneven texture. Make sure to grate them finely for a consistent bake.
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Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the cake’s consistency. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
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Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined and no dry streaks remain.
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Ignoring Cooling Time: Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt. Allow your cakes to cool completely before applying the frosting.
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Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well they combine. Ensure your vegan buttermilk and yogurt are at room temperature.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat slices for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Warm individual slices on medium power for 30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a gluten-free version of this MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum if not already included.
Can I use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, coconut sugar is an excellent substitute that will add a subtle flavor while keeping the cake moist and sweet.
How do I ensure my cream cheese frosting is smooth?
To achieve a smooth texture, sift powdered sugar into the mixture gradually and add dairy-free milk as needed until desired consistency is reached.
How long does it take to bake this vegan carrot cake?
The baking time for this MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is approximately 28-30 minutes, depending on your oven’s accuracy.
Final Thoughts
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for any occasion. It’s not only delicious but also customizable! Add nuts, raisins, or even pineapple for extra flavor. Enjoy this heartwarming treat that everyone will love!
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 dessert that promises to please everyone, vegan or not. This cake combines the natural sweetness of grated carrots with the creaminess of a luscious dairy-free frosting. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion, it’s easily adaptable for gluten-free diets. With just one bowl required for mixing, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free baking experience and a delightful treat that looks as good as it tastes.
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 (melted)
- 2/3 cup dairy-free yogurt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 batch vegan cream cheese frosting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- Prepare vegan buttermilk by mixing dairy-free milk and apple cider vinegar.
- In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, blend melted vegan butter with sugars until smooth. Add yogurt and vanilla; mix well.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients and vegan buttermilk into the wet mixture 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.
- Allow cakes to cool before frosting with dairy-free cream cheese icing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
