Are you looking for a delightful vegan dessert that is both affordable and packed with real ingredients? Look no further! This vegan carrot cake with creamy cashew frosting is not only easy on the wallet but also a delectable treat that everyone will enjoy. Let’s dive into this wholesome recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (such as sunflower or canola)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup coconut milk, from a can
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add the grated carrots, unsweetened applesauce, plant-based milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the cashew frosting. Rinse and drain the soaked cashews, then blend them in a food processor with the maple syrup, lemon juice, and coconut milk until smooth and creamy.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before removing it from the pan.
- Once cool, spread the cashew frosting generously over the top of the cake.
- Slice, serve, and relish your homemade vegan carrot cake!
Nutritional Value
This vegan carrot cake is a wonderful combination of nutrients from natural ingredients. Carrots provide a good source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that the body converts into vitamin A, promoting eye health. The cashews used in the frosting are rich in healthy fats, protein, and magnesium, supporting brain function and heart health. Coconut sugar offers a more nutritious alternative to refined sugars as it retains some minerals, including iron and zinc. The use of applesauce in baking helps reduce the amount of added fat, keeping this cake moist and lower in calories compared to traditional recipes.
For more inspiring vegan recipes, check out Vegan Baking Recipes.
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