Vegan Carrot Cake

Vegan Carrot Cake is a moist, flavorful, and entirely plant-based dessert that’s perfect for all occasions. Packed with grated carrots, warm spices, and a tender crumb, this cake offers all the traditional charm of classic carrot cake—without the use of eggs or dairy. Topped with a creamy vegan frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser for both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist, rich, and full of natural flavor

• Made with simple pantry staples

• Naturally dairy-free and egg-free

• Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or everyday treats

• Customizable with add-ins like nuts, raisins, or pineapple

• Works well as a layer cake, sheet cake, or cupcakes

• Pairs beautifully with vegan cream cheese frosting

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Ground cinnamon

• Ground nutmeg

• Salt

• Brown sugar

• Granulated sugar

• Unsweetened applesauce

• Vegetable oil

• Vanilla extract

• Grated carrots

• Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans

• Optional: raisins

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

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

3. In another bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, applesauce, oil, and vanilla extract until well blended.

4. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined—do not overmix.

5. Fold in the grated carrots and any optional add-ins like nuts or raisins.

6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

7. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 12 slices

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Baking Time: 30–35 minutes

• Total Time: Around 1 hour, including cooling

Variations

• Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version

• Substitute the applesauce with mashed banana or pumpkin puree

• Add crushed pineapple for extra moisture and sweetness

• Make cupcakes instead by dividing the batter into muffin tins and baking for 20–25 minutes

• Use coconut oil or olive oil instead of vegetable oil

• Adjust spices to include ginger or allspice for a different flavor profile

Storage/Reheating

• Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days

• Unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 3 months

• To reheat a slice, microwave for about 15 seconds or warm briefly in a 300°F (150°C) oven

FAQs

Can I make this cake without nuts?

Yes, simply leave out the nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds or extra raisins.

What can I use instead of applesauce?

You can substitute mashed bananas or canned pumpkin, though they will slightly change the flavor.

Can I make this into cupcakes?

Yes, divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 20–25 minutes.

How do I make the cake fluffier?

Avoid overmixing and make sure your baking powder and soda are fresh for optimal rise.

What type of vegan frosting works best?

Vegan cream cheese frosting is the classic choice, but vegan buttercream also works well.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but the texture will be denser. For a lighter result, use a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.

Do I need to peel the carrots?

Yes, it’s best to peel the carrots for a smoother texture in the cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake the layers a day in advance and store them wrapped at room temperature or in the fridge.

Can I add fruit to the batter?

Yes, raisins, crushed pineapple, or chopped dates all work well in carrot cake.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, wrap the unfrosted layers tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before frosting.

Conclusion

Vegan Carrot Cake is a timeless dessert made with a compassionate twist. Moist, warmly spiced, and easy to customize, it’s a perfect centerpiece for celebrations or a cozy treat to enjoy with tea or coffee. With its simple ingredients and incredible flavor, this plant-based version rivals any traditional carrot cake.