Turn your classic carrot cake into a delightful carrot cake loaf, perfect for easy slicing and serving! This moist and flavorful dessert combines the warm spices of the traditional recipe, offering a convenient twist that everyone will love. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy afternoon tea, this cake is sure to impress.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This carrot cake loaf simplifies the traditional carrot cake experience without sacrificing any flavor or texture. The convenient loaf form makes it easy to slice into individual portions for gatherings or meal prep. Its blend of spices, sweetness from carrots and optional nuts, along with a delightful cream cheese frosting, culminates in an irresistible treat you’ll want to bake repeatedly!
Pro Tips for Making Carrot Cake Loaf
- Fresh Grated Carrots: For the best flavor and moisture, use fresh carrots. Pre-grated carrots from the store tend to be drier.
- Storage: If you plan to enjoy your loaf later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing Options: The carrot cake loaf freezes well! Slice it before freezing for individual portions, making it simple to thaw whenever you crave a slice.
- Customizable Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your loaf with raisins or nuts for added texture and flavor. Consider adding pineapple for extra moistness!
- Frosting It Up: For an extra touch, frosting is optional, but a simple cream cheese frosting adds a delicious finish!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create a mouthwatering carrot cake loaf:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until smooth. Add vegetable oil and vanilla extract; continue mixing.
- Step 4: Fold in the grated carrots, and optionally include the nuts and raisins.
- Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread it evenly.
- Step 7: Bake for 50-60 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Step 8: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Cream Cheese Frosting
If you desire an extra layer of sweetness, consider topping your loaf with cream cheese frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Step 1: Beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Step 2: Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until light and fluffy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or another alternative flour for a healthier option.
2. Can I add coconut to the batter?
Absolutely! Shredded coconut can be a delicious addition to the batter for added flavor and texture.
3. How can I store leftovers?
The carrot cake loaf can be wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or it can be frozen for up to three months.
4. Is this recipe suitable for making cupcakes?
Yes, you can pour the batter into cupcake liners instead of a loaf pan! Just adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.
5. Can I make this loaf without eggs?
Yes, you can replace eggs with flax seeds, applesauce, or a store-bought egg replacer to make this recipe vegan.
Conclusion
The carrot cake loaf is a delicious twist on a traditional favorite, combining the rich, spiced flavors in a convenient, easy-to-serve form. Ideal for any occasion, this moist cake pairs perfectly with cream cheese frosting or enjoyed plain. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a must-try recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!