Authentic Southern Carrot Cake

How to Make Authentic Southern Carrot Cake at Home

Recipes may be AI-assisted. Always verify ingredients for allergies and dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 2 cups carrots
• 2 cups gluten-free cake flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 3/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup toasted walnuts
• 8 oz vegan cream cheese
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 1/2 cup coconut oil

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free cake flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

3. 3

   In a separate bowl, mix together the grated carrots, unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.

4. 4

   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

5. 5

   Fold in the chopped walnuts.

6. 6

   Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.

7. 7

   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. 8

   Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

9. 9

   While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating together the vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.

10. 10

    Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.

11. 11

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

12. 12

    Decorate with additional chopped walnuts if desired. Slice and serve.