Vegan Carrot Cake with Spiced Cream Cheese Frosting

1.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper circles.

2.In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves until evenly combined.

3.In a separate medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, vegetable oil, almond milk, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated.

4.Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

5.Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

6.Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.

7.Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

8.Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

9.To prepare the spiced cream cheese frosting, beat the softened vegan cream cheese and vegan butter together in a large bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes.

10.Add the powdered sugar gradually, beating on low speed until incorporated, then increase to medium-high and beat until fluffy.

11.Mix in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

12.Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over the top.

13.Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake evenly.

14.For best flavor, refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set. Bring to room temperature before slicing for the best texture.