Gluten-Free Vegan Carrot Cake

A carrot cake that’s gluten-free, vegan, AND delicious? Yes, it’s possible! This moist and flavorful cake is packed with warm spices, fresh carrots, and a luscious dairy-free cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for birthdays, brunches, or any time you want a cake that everyone (yes, even non-vegans) will love!

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👉 Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake

• 2 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (1:1 blend)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (or mashed banana)
• ¾ cup maple syrup (or agave)
• ½ cup melted coconut oil (or neutral oil)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated carrots
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• ½ cup crushed pineapple (drained, optional)

For the Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting

• ½ cup vegan butter, softened
• 8 oz vegan cream cheese
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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👉 How to Make It

1️⃣ Bake the Cake

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans.
• In a bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
• In a separate bowl, whisk applesauce, maple syrup, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
• Stir in grated carrots, walnuts, and pineapple (if using).
• Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until combined.
• Divide batter into cake pans and bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let cakes cool completely before frosting.

2️⃣ Make the Frosting

• Beat vegan butter and cream cheese until smooth.
• Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.

3️⃣ Assemble the Cake

• Place one cake layer on a plate and spread with cream cheese frosting.
• Add the second layer and frost the entire cake.

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FAQ & Troubleshooting

1. Can I make this nut-free?

Yes! Just skip the walnuts or pecans.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep the cake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let slices sit at room temp before serving for the best texture.

3. Can I use almond flour?

No, almond flour alone won’t work in this recipe. Stick with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

4. How do I make cupcakes instead?

This recipe makes about 18 cupcakes—bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.

5. How do I get extra moisture in gluten-free cakes?

✔️ Use applesauce or mashed banana
✔️ Don’t overmix the batter
✔️ Let the cake cool completely before frosting

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This gluten-free vegan carrot cake is moist, lightly spiced, and topped with the dreamiest dairy-free frosting. You won’t even miss the eggs or dairy! 🥕🌿✨

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