Easy Carrot Cake (vegan + frosting)

Name: Easy Carrot Cake (vegan + frosting)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp nutmeg; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup grated carrots; ½ cup unsweetened applesauce; ½ cup vegetable oil; 1 cup vegan cream cheese; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This delightful Easy Carrot Cake recipe is a must-try for dessert lovers! Bursting with warm spices and juicy carrots, this vegan treat is incredibly moist and topped with a creamy, luscious frosting. Perfect for any occasion, it's sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things plant-based and delicious.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2025-11-28T12:05:01.281Z

Carrot cake has always held a special place in the hearts of dessert enthusiasts. This vegan version not only captures that essence but also adds a guilt-free touch!

        Why You'll Love It
        Moist and flavorful
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for any occasion
Rich, creamy frosting that complements the cake beautifully

      

The Magic of Carrots in Baking

Carrots are not just for savory dishes; they can also transform your desserts. When grated and added to cakes, they lend moisture and a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances flavors. In this Easy Carrot Cake, the natural sugars from the carrots work harmoniously with the other ingredients, making for a delightful and satisfying treat. Plus, the warm spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the flavor profile, creating a cake that tastes like a warm hug on a plate.

Another fantastic aspect of using carrots in baking is their nutritional benefits. Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, carrots add a healthy touch to your dessert. This means you can indulge in your sweet cravings without the guilt! Enjoying a slice of this carrot cake not only satiates your sweetness needs but also offers a boost of nutrients, making it a more wholesome choice.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

One of the best features of this Easy Carrot Cake recipe is how simple it is to make. Using readily available ingredients, you can whip up this cake in no time. The key components—flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and spices—come together to create a flavorful base. Best of all, you won’t need any complicated methods or fancy gadgets; just a few mixing bowls and a whisk will do the trick.

By combining wholesome ingredients such as unsweetened applesauce and vegetable oil, this cake remains rich and moist without compromising its vegan appeal. This makes it an excellent option for gatherings, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice, regardless of dietary restrictions. And the creamy frosting, made from vegan cream cheese, elevates the cake even further, adding a decadent touch that everyone will adore.

Perfecting Your Carrot Cake

To achieve the best results with your Easy Carrot Cake, it’s important to properly mix your wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which is not what you want. Stir until just combined; this ensures the cake remains fluffy and light. Additionally, always remember to let the cake cool completely before adding the frosting. This way, the frosting will spread beautifully without melting and losing its creamy texture.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with add-ins like walnuts or raisins if you're feeling adventurous! These can provide delightful texture and additional flavor that complements the carrots perfectly. Each variation can give a new twist to this classic recipe, making it even more enjoyable for you and your guests.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
½ tsp salt
1 cup grated carrots
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
½ cup vegetable oil

For the Frosting

1 cup vegan cream cheese
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the grated carrots, applesauce, and vegetable oil until well mixed.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Prepare the Frosting

While the cake is cooling, beat together the vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top.

Enjoy your delicious vegan carrot cake!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Easy Carrot Cake, presentation can make a big difference. Consider garnishing the frosting with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few chopped nuts for added visual appeal. You might also serve the cake with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit on the side to create a well-rounded dessert experience for any occasion.

This carrot cake is perfect for celebrations, from birthdays to picnics to holiday gatherings. Whether enjoyed at home or shared with friends, its delightful flavors and moist texture will surely impress. Remember to share your baking adventures on social media, as food photography is a fun way to celebrate your culinary skills!

Storage Tips

To keep your Easy Carrot Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to a week. Just remember to allow it to reach room temperature before serving, as this enhances the cake’s flavors and textures.

If you have leftovers, freezing the cake is also an option. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and you’ll have a delightful treat ready to enjoy!

Why Vegan Baking?

Vegan baking not only caters to those with dietary restrictions but also allows anyone to enjoy delicious treats without animal products. This Easy Carrot Cake showcases how enjoyable and fulfilling vegan desserts can be. With rich flavors, moist textures, and beautiful presentation, there’s no reason to miss out on traditional recipes. It encourages creativity and experimentation with diverse ingredients.

Additionally, vegan baking can be more sustainable, helping reduce our ecological footprint. By using plant-based ingredients, you contribute to a healthier planet while indulging in sweet delights. So, whether you are vegan, vegetarian, or just enjoying plant-based recipes, this cake is sure to be a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.