MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. It’s not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon treat, this cake will impress both vegans and non-vegans alike. With its rich flavors and tender texture, you’ll find it hard to believe it’s dairy-free and egg-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleaser: This vegan carrot cake is loved by everyone, even those who typically avoid vegan desserts.
• One-Bowl Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since all ingredients are mixed in one bowl.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Easily swap out the flour for a gluten-free blend without sacrificing taste.
• Lush Frosting: The creamy vegan cream cheese frosting takes this cake to the next level.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful cake, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help ensure your baking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 8-inch cake pans (3)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: This tool helps you achieve a fluffy texture in your batter and frosting quickly.
• Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your 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 the oven to 350°F. Prepare three 8-inch cake pans by greasing them with cooking oil and lining them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare Vegan Buttermilk

In a small bowl, mix together the vegan milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 3: Mix 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

You can combine these all at once or pre-mix them before adding them to the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together:
-Melted vegan butter
-Granulated sugar
-Light brown sugar

Mix until well combined. Add in the dairy-free yogurt and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add in your dry mixture in about three increments while alternating with the vegan buttermilk. Be careful not to over-mix; fold in the grated carrots gently until no dry streaks remain.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly into prepared cake pans. Bake for approximately 28–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Make sure they are completely cool before frosting.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting

To make the frosting, beat together softened vegan butter and cream cheese until creamy using either a stand mixer or hand mixer. Gradually sift in powdered sugar, mixing well between each addition. If necessary, add dairy-free milk for desired consistency.

Step 9: Assemble and Frost

Spread about 1/3 cup of frosting between each layer of cooled cake. Coat the sides with remaining frosting. For decorative piping, reserve some frosting and color it as desired before piping onto the sides of your cake.

Now enjoy your delicious creation!

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, or just a treat for yourself, serving it right can enhance the experience.

Classic Serving Suggestions

• Slice and Share: Cut into generous slices and serve on dessert plates. Perfect for sharing with friends and family.
• Add Fresh Fruit: Garnish each slice with fresh berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing touch.
• Pair with Tea or Coffee: The flavors of carrot cake are beautifully complemented by a warm cup of chai or coffee.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Layered Parfait: Crumble pieces of carrot cake in a glass, layer with dairy-free yogurt, and top with nuts for a delicious parfait.
• Ice Cream Delight: Serve individual slices topped with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Frosting Drizzle: Drizzle extra cream cheese frosting on top before serving for an extra sweet touch.

Special Occasion Presentation

• Cake Stand Display: Present your cake on a decorative cake stand to elevate its appearance at parties.
• Themed Decorations: Use edible flowers or themed decorations that match your event to make your cake a stunning centerpiece.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

Making the best MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting requires some simple techniques. Here are tips to ensure success.

• Grating Technique: Use the finest setting on your grater for carrots to allow them to blend seamlessly into the batter.
• Proper Mixing Method: Mix just until combined; over-mixing can result in dense cake. Fold in the carrots gently.
• Temperature Check: Ensure all ingredients, especially vegan butter and yogurt, are at room temperature for smooth batter.
• Cooling Time: Cool the cakes completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.

Best Side Dishes for MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with this delightful cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Chilled Coconut Milk Pudding: A light and creamy pudding that balances the sweetness of the carrot cake perfectly.
2. Fruit Salad Medley: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds vibrancy and contrast to the richness of the cake.
3. Minty Cucumber Salad: Cool cucumbers tossed in mint and lemon add a crisp contrast, which aids digestion after sweet treats.
4. Spiced Nuts Mix: Roasted spiced nuts offer crunch and flavor that complements the soft texture of the carrot cake.
5. Herbed Quinoa Salad: This protein-rich salad provides a hearty side that pairs wonderfully without overwhelming flavors.
6. Vegan Charcuterie Board: Include cheeses, olives, and fruits for an elegant approach that pairs well with dessert items like carrot cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this delightful MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially the vegan buttermilk and yogurt, are at room temperature. This helps the batter mix evenly and rise better.
• Overmixing the batter: It’s crucial to mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Always allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can melt the frosting and create a mess.
• Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring cups, especially for flour and sugar. Too much flour can result in a dry cake, while too little can affect its structure.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your cakes as they bake. Ovens vary, and cooking times might differ slightly, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
• The cake will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in an airtight container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm the slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 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 out.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it’s suitable for baking.

How do I store leftovers of my vegan carrot cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of vegan butter?

You can replace vegan butter with neutral oil or coconut oil, which will still yield delicious results.

How do I achieve a perfect cream cheese frosting?

Beat together vegan cream cheese and butter well before adding powdered sugar gradually. Adjust consistency with dairy-free milk if needed.

Can I add nuts or raisins to my carrot cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chopped walnuts or raisins for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This MOIST Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for every occasion, you can customize it by adding spices or mix-ins like nuts. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your friends and family!