Vegan Carrot Cake (super moist)

Vegan Carrot Cake (super moist) is a medium American recipe that serves 12. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Hilltop Recipes on YouTube.

Prep: 30 min | Cook: 55 min | Total: 1 hr 40 min

Cost: $10.29 total, $0.86 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
  • 2 tsp Ground Cinnamon
  • 1 tsp Ground Allspice
  • 0.5 tsp Ground Nutmeg
  • 2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda
  • 0.5 tsp Salt (pinch)
  • 1 cup Almond Milk (unsweetened)
  • 0.5 cup Olive Oil (extra virgin)
  • 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 tsp Ground Ginger
  • 2 cups Carrots (grated (about 3 medium carrots))
  • 1 cup Walnuts (chopped)
  • 1 cup Raisins
  • 0.5 cup Vegan Butter (softened)
  • 4 oz Vegan Cream Cheese (softened)
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar
  • 1 tsp Lemon Zest
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Grate Carrots

    Peel the carrots and grate them using a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment. Set aside.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Preheat Oven

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 350°F

  3. Combine Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly blended.

    Time: PT3M

  4. Add Wet Ingredients

    Pour in the almond milk, olive oil, vanilla extract, and ground ginger. Stir with a spatula until the mixture is just combined; a few dry streaks are okay.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Fold in Carrots, Walnuts, and Raisins

    Gently fold the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and raisins into the batter until evenly distributed.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Prepare Cake Pan

    Line the cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper with a touch of oil.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Transfer Batter to Pan

    Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

    Time: PT1M

  8. Bake the Cake

    Bake for 50‑55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

    Time: PT55M

    Temperature: 350°F

  9. Cool Completely

    Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack and cool completely before frosting.

    Time: PT30M

  10. Make Frosting

    In a bowl, beat the vegan butter and vegan cream cheese together until smooth. Add powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, and beat until light and fluffy.

    Time: PT5M

  11. Frost the Cake

    Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a frosting spatula. Let the frosting set for a few minutes.

    Time: PT5M

  12. Slice and Serve

    Cut the cake into 12 equal squares and serve.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
5g
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
15g
Fiber
3g

Dietary info: Vegan, Dairy‑free, Egg‑free

Allergens: Tree nuts (walnuts), Soy (possible in vegan butter), Gluten (wheat flour)

Last updated: April 15, 2026

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Vegan Carrot Cake (super moist)

Recipe by Hilltop Recipes

A moist, spiced vegan carrot cake packed with grated carrots, walnuts, and raisins, topped with a tangy vegan cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a comforting treat.

MediumAmericanServes 12

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
1h 8m
Prep
55m
Cook
15m
Cleanup
2h 18m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$10.29
Total cost
$0.86
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Grating carrots finely
  • Do not over‑mix the batter after adding wet ingredients
  • Bake until a toothpick comes out clean

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot oven and pan with oven mitts
  • Be careful when using the grater – fingers can be cut
  • Do not over‑mix batter to avoid a tough cake

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of vegan carrot cake in American dessert tradition?

A

Carrot cake originated in the United States during the early 20th century as a way to add moisture and sweetness using carrots, a readily available vegetable. The vegan version reflects modern dietary trends, preserving the nostalgic flavor while eliminating animal products.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of carrot cake in American cuisine?

A

In the Southern United States, carrot cake often includes pineapple and cream cheese frosting, while in the Northeast, it may feature walnuts and a simple glaze. The Hilltop Recipes version stays classic with walnuts, raisins, and a vegan cream cheese frosting.

cultural
Q

How is carrot cake traditionally served in American celebrations?

A

Carrot cake is a popular dessert for birthdays, holidays, and potlucks, typically served in thick slices at room temperature, sometimes accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of cream cheese frosting.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is vegan carrot cake traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

It is commonly enjoyed at spring gatherings, Easter brunches, and family celebrations where a moist, spiced cake is appreciated, and the vegan version caters to guests with dietary restrictions.

cultural
Q

What makes vegan carrot cake special or unique in American vegan baking?

A

The combination of grated carrots, warm spices, and a tangy vegan cream cheese frosting provides the classic richness of traditional carrot cake while being completely plant‑based, making it a standout dessert for vegans and non‑vegans alike.

cultural
Q

How has carrot cake evolved over time in American cuisine?

A

Originally a simple carrot‑sweetened loaf, carrot cake evolved into a layered cake with cream cheese frosting in the 1960s. Recent decades have seen gluten‑free and vegan adaptations, like this recipe, reflecting health‑focused trends.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making vegan carrot cake?

A

Common errors include over‑mixing the batter, which creates a dense texture, using stale leavening agents, and under‑baking, which leaves a soggy center. Follow the critical steps for best results.

technical
Q

Why does this vegan carrot cake recipe use olive oil instead of melted coconut oil?

A

Olive oil provides a neutral moisture without adding a strong coconut flavor, allowing the spices and carrots to shine while keeping the cake light and tender.

technical
Q

Can I make vegan carrot cake ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, bake the cake a day ahead, let it cool, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate. Frost it just before serving, or frost ahead and keep refrigerated; it will stay fresh for up to five days.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Hilltop Recipes specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Hilltop Recipes specializes in approachable, home‑cooked meals with a focus on wholesome, plant‑based and comfort food recipes that are easy for everyday cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Hilltop Recipes' approach to vegan baking differ from other vegan cooking channels?

A

Hilltop Recipes emphasizes simple ingredient lists, clear step‑by‑step visuals, and practical tips like using common kitchen tools, making vegan baking accessible without specialized equipment, unlike some channels that rely on advanced techniques.

channel

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