MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or an afternoon treat, this cake is bound to impress everyone, including non-vegans. With no eggs or dairy involved, and made in just one bowl, it’s a practical choice for busy bakers. Plus, the addition of luscious cream cheese frosting takes this carrot cake to the next level of indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, requiring just one bowl for mixing.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and grated carrots creates a rich flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or as a delightful afternoon snack.
- Dairy-Free Delight: The creamy vegan cream cheese frosting makes it suitable for those avoiding dairy.
- Fun to Decorate: You can get creative with the frosting, making it visually appealing and fun.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your cake, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8” cake pans (3)
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools help create a smooth batter quickly without much effort.
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl prevents spills while mixing all ingredients together.
- Whisk: Essential for combining dry ingredients thoroughly and ensuring an even texture in your batter.
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 a creamy dairy free cream cheese frosting. Soon to be your favorite cake recipe ever!
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 the oven to 350F. Line three 8” cake pans with cooking oil and parchment paper. Grate the carrots if you haven’t already done so.
Step 2: Prepare Vegan Buttermilk
In a small bowl, mix together the vegan milk with apple cider vinegar to create your vegan buttermilk. Allow it to sit while you prepare the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
You can add the dry ingredients all at once or pre-mix them in a large bowl. Whisk together the flour, spices, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted vegan butter with both sugars until combined. Add in the dairy-free yogurt and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the dry mixture in about three increments while alternating with pouring in the vegan buttermilk as well. Be cautious not to over mix; stop when there are no dry streaks left. Gently fold in the grated carrots.
Step 6: Bake
Divide the batter evenly into your prepared cake pans. Bake for approximately 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 carefully onto a cooling rack. Ensure they are completely cool before frosting.
Step 8: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
In a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, cream together vegan butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually sift in powdered sugar by increments of one cup while beating between additions until thoroughly mixed. Add dairy-free milk as needed for desired texture.
Step 9: Frost Your Cake
Apply about 1/3 cup frosting between each layer of cake once cooled. Coat the sides generously. Reserve about 1/2 cup frosting if you want to decorate with piping tips using colored frosting.
Step 10: Store Leftovers
Any leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or frozen for up to three months.
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 Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate your dessert experience. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual gathering, these suggestions will make your cake even more delightful.
Classic Slice
- Serve a generous slice of the cake on its own for a simple yet satisfying treat.
Coffee Pairing
- Pair the cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee to enhance the flavors and add warmth to your dessert experience.
Ice Cream Addition
- Add a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream on the side for a creamy contrast that complements the cake’s texture.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Top each slice with fresh berries or sliced fruits like strawberries or oranges for added freshness and color.
Festive Decoration
- Use sprigs of mint or edible flowers on top of the frosting for an elegant presentation perfect for celebrations.
Layered Dessert
- For an impressive presentation, layer cake pieces in a dessert glass with vegan whipped cream and fruit.
How to Perfect MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
To achieve perfection in your MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting, consider these helpful tips:
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Use fresh ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially carrots and dairy-free yogurt, are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
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Measure accurately: Properly measuring flour and sugar can prevent a dense cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for precise measurements.
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Cool completely: Allow the cakes to cool fully before frosting. This prevents melting and helps achieve clean layers.
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Alternate mixing: Mix dry ingredients and wet ingredients in increments to prevent over-mixing, which can lead to a tough cake.
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Customize spices: Feel free to adjust spices like cinnamon or nutmeg according to your taste preferences for a unique flavor profile.
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Chill frosting: If the cream cheese frosting is too soft, refrigerate it briefly before applying it to achieve better spreadability.
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. Here are some great options:
- Coconut Milk Rice Pudding: A creamy and comforting dish that complements the sweetness of carrot cake beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the rich flavors of the cake.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai create a cozy pairing that accentuates the spices in your carrot cake.
- Vegan Cheesecake Bites: These bite-sized treats provide an additional sweet option without overwhelming guests.
- Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet contrasts nicely against the sweet cream cheese frosting.
- Nutty Granola Clusters: Crunchy granola clusters provide texture and can be enjoyed as a light side snack alongside slices of cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting can be simple, but there are common mistakes that could affect your cake’s texture and flavor. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
- Skipping the vegan buttermilk: This ingredient adds moisture and flavor. Don’t skip it; mix dairy-free milk with vinegar for the best results.
- Not cooling the cakes properly: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt. Always cool layers completely before applying frosting.
- Using old spices: Freshness matters in baking! Check your spices’ expiry dates to ensure your cake has optimal flavor.
- Incorrect oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cool can ruin your cake. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- This cake lasts up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
- You can freeze this cake for up to 3 months.
Reheating MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm slices gently for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for a delicious gluten-free version.
How can I customize the frosting?
You can add flavors like lemon zest or almond extract to your cream cheese frosting for a unique twist!
What should I do if my cake is too dry?
If you find that your cake is dry, ensure you measure ingredients accurately and avoid overbaking. Adding more vegan buttermilk can help!
What should I serve with my MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake?
This carrot cake pairs well with coffee or tea, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings or celebrations.
Final Thoughts
This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or raisins, or even experimenting with different spices. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find your new favorite dessert!
MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Experience the joy of baking with this MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just indulging in a sweet afternoon treat. With its rich flavors from warm spices and freshly grated carrots, this cake will impress everyone—even non-vegans! Made in just one bowl and free from eggs and dairy, it’s an easy choice for busy bakers. Topped with a creamy vegan cream cheese frosting, each bite is an indulgent delight that you won’t want to miss.
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 melted vegan butter
- 2/3 cup dairy-free yogurt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 batch vegan cream cheese frosting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- Prepare the vegan buttermilk by mixing vegan milk with apple cider vinegar; set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine melted vegan butter and sugars; mix in dairy-free yogurt and vanilla.
- Gradually add dry ingredients alternating with vegan buttermilk until combined; fold in grated carrots.
- Divide batter into prepared pans and bake for 28–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes before frosting with the 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: 330
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
