Carrot cake is a classic dessert loved by many, but the traditional cream cheese frosting can be a bit heavy and overpowering.
And that’s if you’re a cream cheese lover.
If you aren’t, then it’s hard to get tons of enjoyment out of what would otherwise be a delicious dessert.
Luckily, there are plenty of delicious alternatives that you can use for frosting your next carrot cake.
Whether you’re looking for a lighter option, a dairy-free alternative, or just something different, we’ve got lots for you to choose from.
It doesn’t matter, if you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’re sure to find a frosting that suits your taste and skill level.
So if you’re ready to take your carrot cake to the next level, keep reading!
Traditional Carrot Cake Frosting Alternatives
Greek Yogurt Frosting
If you’re looking for something close to cream cheese but not quite cream cheese, consider trying Greek yogurt frosting.
It has a similar tangy flavor to cream cheese frosting but is lighter and tangier. To make Greek yogurt frosting, mix together Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
This recipe from iFOODreal is made with Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract, resulting in a creamy and tangy frosting is the perfect topping for your carrot cake.
Simply mix the ingredients together until smooth, refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld, and voila – a guilt-free frosting!
Buttercream Frosting
Buttercream frosting is a classic frosting that is used on many cakes, including carrot cake.
It is rich and creamy, but not as tangy as cream cheese frosting. To make buttercream frosting, beat together butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. You can also add a splash of milk or cream to thin out the frosting if it is too thick.
If you need a tasty reference, look no further than Sun Glow Kitchen’s recipe! Made with ingredients like mascarpone cheese, whipped cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, this frosting is creamy, smooth, and full of flavor. The mascarpone cheese lends a subtle tanginess that pairs perfectly with the warm spices and sweetness of the carrot cake.
| Frosting Type | Flavor | Texture | Key Ingredients | Recipe Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greek Yogurt | Tangy | Lighter | Greek Yogurt, Powdered Sugar, Vanilla Extract | iFOODreal |
| Buttercream | Rich | Creamy | Butter, Powdered Sugar, Vanilla Extract | Sun Glow Kitchen |
Non-Traditional Frosting Alternatives
Maybe you don’t want (or can’t have dairy). For our dairy-free readers, we’ve tracked down a couple of alternatives for you to try on your next carrot cake!
Whipped Coconut Cream Frosting
If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, whipped coconut cream frosting is a great option. It’s light, fluffy, and has a subtle coconut flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices in carrot cake. Here’s how to make it:
This recipe from Baked by an Introvert features powdered sugar, coconut extract, and a sprinkle of shredded coconut for texture. This frosting is a heavenly blend of flavors that will transport your carrot cake to a tropical paradise!
Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
If you love cream cheese frosting but want to try something different, maple cream cheese frosting is a delicious twist.
If that sounds like something you want to try, then From Scratch Fast’s Maple Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is one worth checking out.
Made with creamy cream cheese, real maple syrup, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar, this decadent frosting is a treat for your taste buds.
Simply mix the ingredients together until smooth and creamy, and you’re ready to indulge in a rich, flavorful frosting that’s perfect for your carrot cake recipe.
| Frosting Type | Flavor | Texture | Key Ingredients | Recipe Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whipped Coconut Cream | Subtle Coconut | Light and Fluffy | Coconut Cream, Powdered Sugar, Coconut Extract | Baked by an Introvert |
| Maple Cream Cheese | Maple | Decadent | Cream Cheese, Maple Syrup, Vanilla Extract, Powdered Sugar | From Scratch Fast |
Vegan Frosting Alternatives
For our vegan friends, don’t fear, we’ve got two delicious options for you as well.
Cashew Cream Frosting
Cashew cream frosting is a popular vegan alternative to cream cheese frosting. It’s easy to make and has a creamy, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with carrot cake.
You’ll definitely want to check out Minimalist Baker’s Cashew Buttercream Frosting!
Made with cashews, non-dairy milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, this plant-based frosting is rich in protein, healthy fats, and natural sweetness. Honestly, whether you’re vegan or not, this frosting is sure to impress with its unique taste and texture.
Coconut Milk Frosting
Coconut milk frosting is another delicious vegan option for carrot cake. It’s rich, creamy, and has a subtle coconut flavor that complements the spices in carrot cake.
If that sounds like something you want to try, then The Conscious Plant Kitchen’s mouth-watering coconut cream frosting recipe should be first on your list.
Made with creamy coconut cream, powdered sugar, vegan butter, and a hint of vanilla extract, this dairy-free frosting is the perfect alternative for those seeking a guilt-free indulgence.
| Frosting Type | Flavor | Texture | Key Ingredients | Recipe Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cashew Cream | Creamy, Nutty | Smooth and Rich | Cashews, Non-Dairy Milk, Maple Syrup, Vanilla Extract | Minimalist Baker |
| Coconut Milk | Subtle Coconut | Rich and Creamy | Coconut Cream, Powdered Sugar, Vegan Butter, Vanilla Extract | The Conscious Plant Kitchen |
I’m Griffin and I make my living as a freelance writer and wannabe sci fi author. Besides my obsession with words, I have a few others which may or may not include craft beer, backcountry hikes and spending time with loved ones – preferably in that order. Thanks for checking out my work and I hope you enjoy it!
