Vegan Carrot Cake

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Dive into the world of plant-based indulgence with this delightful vegan carrot cake! A moist, tender cake bursting with the warmth of spices and the sweetness of carrots, it is a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or just craving a comforting dessert, this cake is sure to impress. The addition of walnuts and raisins brings a delightful texture and flavor, making every bite a dreamy experience. Let’s whip this up!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that is both delicious and vegan, this carrot cake checks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, incredibly moist, and rich in flavor. The combination of spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg brings warmth and earthiness, while the carrots provide natural sweetness. Plus, it’s perfectly customizable! Whether you enjoy it plain, topped with a vegan frosting, or dressed up with a sprinkle of nuts and raisins, this cake is versatile and will become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Ground flaxseed
• 6 tablespoons warm water
• 2 cups (250 grams) All-purpose flour
• ½ cup (100 grams) Granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100 grams) Brown sugar
• 1.5 teaspoons Baking soda
• 1.5 teaspoons Baking powder
• 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• 2 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Ground ginger (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon Ground cloves (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon Ground nutmeg (optional)
• 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120 ml) Vegetable oil
• ½ cup (120 ml) Soy milk
• 3 medium carrots, grated (around 400 grams)
• ½ cup (50 grams) Walnuts (optional)
• ½ cup (50 grams) Raisins (optional)
• 2 tablespoons Lemon zest (optional)

How To Make Vegan Carrot Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Flax Eggs

Start by making your flax eggs. In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with warm water and stir well. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes gelatinous. This will act as a binding agent in your cake.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg. Whisk them together until they are well combined and no lumps remain.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the apple cider vinegar, pure vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and soy milk. Add in the prepared flax eggs and stir until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Grate the Carrots

Prepare your carrots by peeling and grating them. You can use a box grater or a food processor for this. Set the grated carrots aside.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 6: Add Carrots and Optional Ingredients

Fold in the grated carrots, and if you’re using them, add in the walnuts, raisins, and lemon zest. Stir until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between the two pans and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 8: Frost (Optional) and Serve

Once the cakes are completely cool, you can frost them with your favorite vegan frosting, such as a vegan cream cheese frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Slice, serve, and enjoy this delicious vegan carrot cake with family and friends!

Expert Tips

• Make sure to finely grate your carrots for a smoother texture in the cake.
• If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the amount of sugar slightly.
• For a spicier cake, feel free to add more cinnamon or ginger as desired.
• Use a toothpick to check for doneness in the center of the cake—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready!

Variations and Customizations

• Substitute the walnuts with pecans or leave them out entirely if you prefer a nut-free option.
• Add pineapple or coconut for a tropical twist.
• Change up the spices according to your taste—add nutmeg or allspice for extra flavor.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your vegan carrot cake moist and fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can refrigerate it, where it will last for about a week. For even longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.

FAQ

Can I make this carrot cake without nuts or raisins?

Absolutely! You can simply omit the nuts and raisins, or replace them with your favorite mix-ins if you desire.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Keep in mind that it may change the texture a bit.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Ensure the blend is suitable for baking for the best results.

What frosting pairs well with vegan carrot cake?

A vegan cream cheese frosting is a classic choice that complements the flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a simple coconut whipped cream or a rich chocolate ganache can also be delicious options!

Conclusion

This vegan carrot cake is a testament to the delicious possibilities within plant-based baking. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can create a dessert that is both wholesome and satisfying. The blend of spices and sweetness from the carrots makes it a truly special treat to share with loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan baker or trying out dairy-free recipes for the first time, this carrot cake will not disappoint. Enjoy each moist slice, knowing it’s made with love and nourishing ingredients! Happy baking!

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