If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate that nostalgic spice-kissed carrot cake without any eggs or dairy, this vegan carrot cake recipe will feel like a revelation. We’re diving into the fluffiest, nuttiest, cinnamon-swirled dessert that just happens to be completely plant-based—and yes, just as indulgent. This article will walk you through the story, ingredients, baking process, and frostings that make this the best vegan gluten free carrot cake you’ll ever try.
Vegan Carrot Cake (Gluten-Free Option)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cake pans
- Oven
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 ½ cups flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ cup applesauce
- ¾ cup almond milk
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup coconut oil
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, mix applesauce, almond milk, vinegar, coconut oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures. Fold in the grated carrots.
- Pour batter into pans and bake for 30–35 minutes. Let cool completely.
- Make frosting using vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vegan butter.
- Frost cooled cake. Optionally decorate with nuts or coconut.
Notes
Nutrition
Table Of Contents
Table of Contents
Why This Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe Is Close to My Heart
This vegan carrot cake recipe began with a memory
Every great recipe tells a story, and this vegan carrot cake recipe is no different. When I was twelve, I baked my first carrot cake in a tiny toaster oven using my grandma’s handwritten notes. It was lopsided, spiced within an inch of its life, and absolutely magical. That was the beginning. Over time, I found myself chasing that same flavor, only now I needed a version that matched the way I eat: plant-based, no eggs, and no dairy.
This vegan carrot cake recipe became my solution. It’s warm with cinnamon, packed with freshly grated carrots, and layered with the kind of richness you’d never expect from a dairy-free dessert. Whether you’re baking for dietary reasons or simply craving a kinder treat, this cake delivers. Just like my favorite memories, it’s honest and satisfying.
This isn’t just about skipping animal products. It’s about flavor, texture, and that perfect crumb that holds up to a generous smear of vegan carrot cake frosting. If you’ve been searching for the kind of dessert that hits all the nostalgic notes while fitting a modern lifestyle, this is it.
And yes—this base recipe also works beautifully as vegan carrot cake cupcakes for parties or easy snacking. If you’re avoiding gluten, swap in a cup-for-cup flour to turn this into a tender vegan gluten free carrot cake that even non-vegans will rave about.
If you’re looking for other plant-based classics, this vegan red velvet cake recipe delivers the same comfort in a completely dairy-free way.
Why this vegan carrot cake recipe works every time
A great vegan carrot cake recipe should be as moist, rich, and satisfying as any traditional version. This one nails it. Applesauce adds natural sweetness and moisture. Almond milk brings creaminess. And a splash of apple cider vinegar gives it that lovely rise. You’ll never miss the eggs, I promise.
For those looking to try something different, you can even play with a carrot cake raw vegan variation. But if you love the smell of spices filling your kitchen and the golden edges of a fresh-baked loaf, this baked version is a must-try.
Looking for something indulgent yet deeply comforting? This might be the best vegan carrot cake recipe you’ve never tried—but once you do, it’ll become your favorite. If you’re ever in town, the flavor is close to what you’d find at the best carrot cake Las Vegas bakeries—except you made it yourself, and that’s the best part.
Many readers compare it to popular carrot cake Las Vegas cafés, but you can also explore vegan options at Nothing Bundt Cakes if you’re not baking from scratch.
Mastering the Ingredients in This Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe
Core ingredients that bring this vegan carrot cake recipe to life
The magic of this vegan carrot cake recipe starts with simple, real ingredients that come together into something deeply satisfying. Grated fresh carrots take the spotlight in this vegan carrot cake recipe, bringing moisture, vibrant color, and a gentle hint of natural sweetness to every bite. Don’t skimp here; the texture really matters.
We use all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a vegan gluten free carrot cake) as the base. To keep things fluffy without eggs, unsweetened applesauce works beautifully. A touch of apple cider vinegar reacts with baking soda to give that perfect rise—no eggs needed, no compromise on structure.
For fats, melted coconut oil or light olive oil both do well. Add warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to infuse every bite with cozy flavor. Chopped walnuts are optional, but they give a lovely crunch and richness. If you’re curious about alternatives, this healthy flourless chocolate cake shows how versatile clean baking can be.
And to keep the batter dairy-free and luscious, we use almond or oat milk. These plant-based milks bring moisture without overwhelming the spices. And yes—you can easily make this into vegan carrot cake cupcakes by adjusting the bake time to about 18–20 minutes.
Here’s a breakdown of core ingredients and their purpose:
| Ingredient | Purpose in Recipe |
|---|---|
| Carrots (grated) | Moisture, sweetness, texture |
| Applesauce | Egg substitute, moisture |
| Plant milk (almond/oat) | Liquid for mixing, moisture |
| Apple cider vinegar | Helps the cake rise |
| Baking soda & powder | Leavening agents |
For those watching allergens, swap the almond milk for oat or soy, and use nut-free oil if needed. This is one vegan carrot cake recipe that adjusts well to your pantry.
Can this vegan carrot cake be made gluten-free and still taste good?
Absolutely. If you’re aiming for a vegan gluten free carrot cake, just replace the regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Choose one that includes xanthan gum, or add ½ teaspoon yourself to help bind the crumb. The cake will still be tender, moist, and rich with spice.
This cake holds up beautifully in both round cake pans and cupcake tins, making it ideal for everything from holiday gatherings to weekday treats. Whether you’re craving a two-layer classic or quick vegan carrot cake cupcakes, this batter flexes to fit.
And if you’re wondering about icing, don’t worry—vegan icing for carrot cake is easier than you think. In Part 3, we’ll dive into a luscious dairy-free cream cheese frosting made with just a few simple ingredients.
For those avoiding gluten, a 1:1 gluten-free blend transforms this into a tender gluten-free vegan red velvet cake-style texture with zero compromise.
If you enjoy rich, soaked flavors, our vegan tres leches cake is another dairy-free dessert worth adding to your list.
Frosting Tips for the Ultimate Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe
Vegan carrot cake frosting that completes the recipe
A good vegan carrot cake recipe needs a frosting that does more than just sit pretty—it has to complement the warm spices and tender crumb with smooth, tangy sweetness. This vegan carrot cake frosting does exactly that. It’s made with plant-based cream cheese, vegan butter, lemon juice, and powdered sugar for a finish that’s creamy, spreadable, and every bit as delicious as the classic version.
You can use store-bought dairy-free cream cheese or make your own cashew-based version at home. For a lighter option, try a simple vegan icing carrot cake fans love: blend soaked cashews with maple syrup and lemon juice for a naturally sweet, whole-food take. Either way, this frosting brings the balance that makes this vegan carrot cake recipe stand out.
It also works beautifully on vegan carrot cake cupcakes. Just pipe it on with a round or star tip and sprinkle with crushed walnuts or a dusting of cinnamon. You can achieve bakery-quality results with this vegan carrot cake recipe right in your own kitchen.
Cupcake lovers can easily adapt this vegan carrot cake recipe into mini cupcakes for bite-sized party treats or meal-prep desserts.
How to decorate your vegan carrot cake recipe like a pro
Once you’ve baked and cooled your layers, it’s time to turn your vegan carrot cake recipe into a centerpiece. For a traditional look, stack two layers with frosting in between and around the edges. Want something rustic and effortless? Leave the sides slightly bare for that trendy “naked cake” style.
For celebrations, transform this same recipe into vegan carrot cake cupcakes—just adjust the baking time to 18–20 minutes. They’re portable, party-ready, and ideal for sharing. Don’t forget a swirl of vegan carrot cake frosting on top for a bakery-worthy finish.
Need to keep things gluten-free? No problem. This is also a fantastic vegan carrot cake gluten free option when made with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. It stays moist, fluffy, and flavorful without any compromise on texture.
Decorate with crushed pecans, toasted coconut, or edible flowers to make it your own. And remember: always frost once your cake is completely cool to avoid melting your beautiful icing.
Looking for a more indulgent yet still plant-based dessert? Try this vegan red velvet loaf cake that’s perfect for gifting or freezing.
With the right vegan carrot cake frosting and a little creativity, your finished cake will be a total showstopper—whether you serve it at a holiday gathering or enjoy it solo with a cup of tea.
Storing, Serving, and Where to Find Vegan Carrot Cake
How to store and serve your vegan carrot cake recipe
After you’ve baked and frosted your dream vegan carrot cake recipe, proper storage is key to keeping it moist and flavorful. If you’re serving the same day, keep it loosely covered at room temperature. For next-day enjoyment, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
The beauty of this recipe is that it actually tastes better the second day—the spices deepen, and the texture settles. You can even freeze this cake, frosting and all. Just chill it first, then wrap tightly in plastic and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
Planning ahead? Bake the layers of your vegan carrot cake recipe a day or two before your event, then frost them on the day of. This also works great for vegan carrot cake cupcakes if you’re prepping for parties or school events.
For holiday gifting or batch baking, this recipe doubles beautifully and holds up to layering.
For more breakfast-style bakes, this vegan coffee cake pairs beautifully with a warm mug of oat milk latte.
Where to buy vegan carrot cake (if baking isn’t your jam)
Not in the mood to bake but still craving that sweet, spiced slice? You’re not alone. Many readers ask, “Where can I buy vegan carrot cake?” The answer depends on your location, but here are a few tips.
If you’re in a major city, local vegan bakeries or health-focused cafés are a great place to start. For instance, the dessert scene for carrot cake Las Vegas is surprisingly vibrant—look for spots like Violette’s Vegan or Whole Foods bakery sections. Search “where to buy vegan carrot cake” or “vegan carrot cake near me” on Google Maps for local results.
Some grocery stores also carry ready-made vegan carrot cake gluten free options, especially in the frozen or refrigerated natural foods section. Brands like Abe’s, Rubicon, and Erin McKenna’s often offer pre-sliced or mini vegan carrot cake cupcakes with great flavor and clean ingredients.
Can’t find it locally? Consider ordering from vegan bakeries online. Many offer nationwide delivery for specialty cakes, including carrot cake raw vegan versions if you prefer no-bake options.
Still, if you’ve got 20 minutes to prep and a bit of love to pour into your mixing bowl, nothing beats the homemade version of this vegan carrot cake recipe. You’ll get the taste you’re craving—along with the pride of having made it yourself.
If you’re cutting back on sugar, our sugar-free cake is a great option that still feels like a treat.
for more recipe follow us in facebook page
FAQs About Vegan Carrot Cake Recipe
What is vegan carrot cake made of?
A vegan carrot cake recipe uses plant-based ingredients like grated carrots, flour, spices, applesauce (as an egg substitute), plant milk, and vegetable oil. Instead of dairy-based frosting, it’s topped with a creamy vegan carrot cake frosting made from vegan cream cheese or cashews, lemon juice, and powdered sugar.
Why is it called divorce carrot cake?
“Divorce carrot cake” is often a tongue-in-cheek term used in blogs or recipes to describe a carrot cake so irresistible, it might cause arguments over the last slice. It’s not an official type of cake but a humorous nickname for a very popular, often decadent version of a carrot cake.
What to replace eggs with in carrot cake?
In a vegan carrot cake recipe, you can replace eggs with applesauce, mashed banana, flaxseed meal mixed with water, or plant-based yogurt. Applesauce is a favorite because it keeps the cake moist and blends easily with the other ingredients.
Can carrot cake be made without eggs? How to make vegan carrot cake?
Yes, you can absolutely make carrot cake without eggs. This vegan carrot cake recipe skips eggs entirely, using applesauce and baking soda for lift. Combine shredded carrots, plant milk, flour, spices, and your chosen egg replacer, then bake until golden. Top with vegan carrot cake frosting for the full experience.
Are carrot cake Oreos vegan?
As of now, most Oreo flavors, including Carrot Cake Oreos, are technically free from animal-derived ingredients, but they may be made in facilities that handle dairy. Check the label if you’re following a strict vegan diet.
Where can I buy vegan carrot cake?
You can buy vegan carrot cake from health food bakeries, natural grocery stores, or online vegan dessert shops. In cities like Las Vegas, vegan bakeries often carry both full cakes and vegan carrot cake cupcakes. Search for “where to buy vegan carrot cake” near you for local results.
Where to buy vegan carrot cake online?
Look for online bakeries that specialize in plant-based desserts. Many offer nationwide shipping of vegan gluten free carrot cake, cupcakes, or even carrot cake raw vegan options. Always check for ingredient lists and shipping policies before ordering.
Conclusion
A great vegan carrot cake recipe proves that plant-based baking can be rich, moist, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or just because, this cake offers the perfect blend of spice, sweetness, and texture—with absolutely no eggs or dairy needed. You can enjoy it as a full cake, bake it into vegan carrot cake cupcakes, or even turn it into a vegan gluten free carrot cake with one simple swap.
If baking isn’t your thing, there are plenty of ways to buy a slice or two, from local bakeries to online shops. But once you’ve tried this homemade version—with its tangy vegan carrot cake frosting and warming spices—you might never go back to store-bought again.
For more feel-good, flavor-packed baking, don’t miss our easy vegan chocolate loaf—another pantry-friendly winner.