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