## How to Make a Vegetable Garden Cake
A vegetable garden cake is a fun and unique way to celebrate the harvest or to simply enjoy the flavors of fresh vegetables. This cake is made with a moist carrot cake base and is topped with a cream cheese frosting made with fresh vegetables. The result is a delicious and beautiful cake that is sure to impress your guests.
### Ingredients
For the cake:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 cup grated carrots
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the frosting:
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh vegetables (such as carrots, celery, onions, or peppers)
### Instructions
To make the cake:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vegetable oil and eggs. Stir in the grated carrots and walnuts, if desired.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
To make the frosting:
1. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Beat in the sour cream and powdered sugar until well combined. Stir in the chopped vegetables.
2. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and enjoy!
### Tips
For a more intense carrot flavor, use more grated carrots.
To add extra sweetness, add a few tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to the batter.
For a richer frosting, use full-fat cream cheese.
To decorate the cake, use fresh vegetables, edible flowers, or sprinkles.
### Variations
Chocolate Vegetable Garden Cake: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey flavor.
Fruit and Vegetable Garden Cake: Add 1 cup of chopped fruit (such as apples, berries, or peaches) to the batter for a fruity flavor.
Gluten-Free Vegetable Garden Cake: Use gluten-free flour to make the cake gluten-free.
Vegan Vegetable Garden Cake: Use vegan butter and cream cheese to make the cake vegan.
### Serving Suggestions
Serve the vegetable garden cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. It can also be served as a dessert or snack at a party or gathering.