Carrot Cake (No Milk & No Egg) a moist and spiced carrot cake is a comforting dessert that just happens to be completely dairy-free and egg-free. With warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, a soft crumb from shredded carrots, and the option to add crushed pineapple or nuts for extra depth, this plant-based version of a classic is just as indulgent as the original.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
1 cup water (or dairy-free milk alternative)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups grated carrots
½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional for extra moisture)
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Directions
I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch round or square cake pan by greasing and flouring it.
In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Then, I stir in the sugars, oil, water, and vanilla extract until just combined.
I fold in the grated carrots, and if I’m using them, the pineapple and chopped nuts.
I pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
I bake it for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once it’s baked, I let the cake cool completely before adding any frosting or slicing.
Optional Frosting:
To make a quick dairy-free cream cheese-style frosting, I beat together powdered sugar, dairy-free cream cheese, dairy-free butter, and vanilla extract until smooth, then spread it over the cooled cake.
Servings and timing
Servings: 10 slices
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per slice
Variations
I sometimes use applesauce or mashed banana in place of the pineapple for a different type of natural sweetness.
For a nut-free version, I leave out the walnuts or pecans entirely.
I’ve also tried baking this in a loaf pan for more of a carrot bread texture—just increase the bake time slightly.
A handful of raisins or shredded coconut makes a great addition if I want to switch up the mix-ins.
Swapping the cinnamon and nutmeg for pumpkin pie spice gives the cake a seasonal twist.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate it for up to 5 days. If I’ve frosted it, I definitely keep it chilled to maintain the texture of the cream cheese-style topping. To enjoy it warm, I pop a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
FAQs
What can I use instead of crushed pineapple?
I like using applesauce or mashed banana instead if I don’t have pineapple. Both keep the cake moist and add natural sweetness.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, I use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make it gluten-free. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
I check it with a toothpick inserted in the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready. It usually takes about 35–40 minutes.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely. I wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them. When I want a slice, I thaw it at room temperature or microwave it gently.
Can I skip the frosting?
Of course. I often enjoy this cake plain or with just a dusting of powdered sugar. The flavor and texture are rich enough on their own.
Conclusion
This Carrot Cake (No Milk & No Egg) is a perfect go-to for anyone craving a cozy dessert without dairy or eggs. It’s simple to make, incredibly moist, and easily adaptable based on what I have on hand. Whether I serve it frosted or plain, it’s always a hit at gatherings—or just as a treat for myself.
Recipe:

Carrot Cake (No Milk & No Egg)
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This moist and warmly spiced carrot cake is completely dairy-free and egg-free, making it a perfect plant-based dessert. With a soft crumb from grated carrots and optional mix-ins like pineapple or nuts, it delivers all the indulgence of the classic version—without the allergens.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
1 cup water (or dairy-free milk alternative)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups grated carrots
½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, water, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots. If using, also fold in crushed pineapple and chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or slicing.
Notes
Optional dairy-free cream cheese frosting: beat together powdered sugar, dairy-free cream cheese, dairy-free butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
For nut-free version, omit walnuts or pecans.
Can substitute crushed pineapple with applesauce or mashed banana.
Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezes well—wrap slices individually for easy thawing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg