Vegan Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the classic combination of sweet, moist carrot cake and tangy cream cheese frosting with this irresistible Vegan Carrot Cake. Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of tender cake, flecked with vibrant orange carrots, hints of warm spices, and crunchy walnuts, all topped with a creamy and decadent layer of vegan cream cheese frosting. Each bite is a heavenly fusion of flavors and textures, with the sweetness of the cake perfectly balanced by the tanginess of the frosting. This vegan version of a beloved classic is just as moist and delicious as the original, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion, from birthdays to holiday gatherings. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be enjoyed by vegans and non-vegans alike. Get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your guests with this divine Vegan Carrot Cake!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces vegan cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup vegan butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. For the Carrot Cake:
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round cake pans.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, applesauce, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the grated carrots, chopped walnuts (if using), and raisins (if using) until evenly distributed.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and spread it out evenly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Remove from the oven and let the cake(s) cool completely before frosting.
   • For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
10. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened vegan cream cheese and vegan butter until smooth and creamy.
11. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
12. To Assemble:
13. Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
14. If making a layer cake, stack the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
15. Optionally, garnish with additional chopped walnuts or grated carrots.
16. Slice and serve this delectable Vegan Carrot Cake to enjoy with family and friends!