If you are looking for a moist, flavorful treat that feels like a warm hug in cake form, this Carrot Cake Loaf Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Packed with freshly grated carrots and a blend of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and subtly spiced. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this loaf is easy to make and delivers comforting goodness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Carrot Cake Loaf Recipe plays a crucial role in crafting its unique texture and rich flavor. From the natural moisture of the grated carrots to the warmth of the spices, these simple staples come together perfectly.
- 2 cups grated carrots: Freshly grated for natural sweetness and moisture that keeps the loaf tender.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure to the loaf while keeping it soft.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the loaf rise and become light without puffiness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure perfect leavening and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, aromatic spice that defines carrot cake.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle touch that complements cinnamon with a gentle nutty flavor.
- 1 cup white sugar: Sweetens the loaf without overwhelming the natural carrot flavor.
- 1 cup light brown sugar: Brings depth with its molasses notes, enriching the cake’s taste.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without a greasy feel.
- 4 eggs: Essential for binding ingredients and providing richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a sweet, fragrant hint.
How to Make Carrot Cake Loaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure your loaf comes out perfectly tidy. This little detail helps your beautiful carrot cake loaf release with ease after baking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients with Carrots
In a large bowl, mix the grated carrots with all the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step subtly distributes the spices and raising agents evenly throughout the grated carrots for a consistent texture and flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Whisk Together Sugars, Oil, Eggs, and Vanilla
In a separate bowl, whisk the white sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined and smooth. This mixture brings sweetness and richness to the loaf without overpowering the delicate carrot taste.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add your wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry carrot and flour mix. Stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the loaf dense, so keep the batter a bit lumpy to maintain a tender crumb.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and place it in the oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell of spices and baking carrots filling the kitchen is a sign that your loaf is almost ready!
Step 6: Cool Completely Before Frosting
Once baked, let your carrot cake loaf cool entirely in its pan. This step is crucial if you plan to add frosting so it doesn’t melt or slide off. Even on its own, this loaf is delightful with a golden crust and moist inside.
How to Serve Carrot Cake Loaf Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a simple cream cheese frosting makes the perfect finishing touch to your carrot cake loaf. Chopped walnuts or toasted coconut sprinkled on top add not only a crunchy contrast but also a beautiful visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This loaf pairs wonderfully with a cup of spiced chai tea or freshly brewed coffee. For a complete brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness with creamy tanginess.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn slices of this carrot cake loaf into elegant layered mini sandwiches with cream cheese filling or use it as a base for a trifle by adding layers of whipped cream and berries. Wrapped individually, these make charming homemade gifts too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover carrot cake loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping it wrapped tightly ensures it stays soft and moist rather than drying out.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in a low oven, wrapped in foil, to refresh the loaf’s softness. Avoid overheating to keep the crumb tender and delicious.
FAQs
Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but expect a denser and slightly nuttier loaf. For best results, try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to maintain lightness.
Is it necessary to use both baking powder and baking soda?
Using both helps achieve the ideal rise and texture. Baking soda neutralizes the acidity from the brown sugar and carrots, while baking powder adds extra lift for a soft crumb.
Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins make excellent additions. Fold in about 1/2 to 3/4 cup after mixing the wet and dry ingredients for added texture and flavor.
How long does this carrot cake loaf stay fresh?
Stored properly, it stays fresh for about 3 days at room temperature and up to a week refrigerated. Wrapping it well prevents it from drying out.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can enjoy a gluten-free carrot cake loaf. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Carrot Cake Loaf Recipe is one of those timeless, cozy treats you’ll want to keep in your baking repertoire. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible, while the rich flavors make it unforgettable. Give it a try—you might just find a new classic to share with loved ones!
Print
Carrot Cake Loaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This moist and flavorful Carrot Cake Loaf is packed with freshly grated carrots and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Sweetened with white and brown sugars and enriched with eggs and vegetable oil, it bakes to a tender crumb perfect for any dessert or snack time. The loaf is easy to prepare and bakes in under an hour, making it a delightful treat for gatherings or everyday indulgences.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and grated carrots. Mix these thoroughly to distribute the spices and leavening evenly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the white sugar, light brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl. Gently mix until just combined to avoid overmixing which can make the loaf dense.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean indicating the cake is done.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the carrot cake loaf to cool completely in the pan before slicing or frosting to ensure clean slices and maintain texture.
Notes
- Use fresh, finely grated carrots for the best texture and moisture.
- If you prefer a denser loaf, reduce the baking powder slightly.
- The loaf can be frosted with cream cheese frosting once cooled for added flavor.
- Store leftover carrot cake wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a subtle flavor twist.
