Irresistible Carrot Cake Loaf: A Moist and Flavorful Delight
Indulge in the perfect blend of warm spices, tender grated carrots, and a heavenly cream cheese drizzle with our delectable Carrot Cake Loaf. This loaf offers all the comforting flavors of classic carrot cake in a convenient, sliceable form. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a delightful treat, this carrot cake loaf is the epitome of cozy and satisfying sweetness.
Ingredients:
For the Carrot Cake Loaf:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon ground ginger
– ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups grated carrots (about 3-4 medium carrots)
– ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Drizzle:
– 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
– ¼ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2-3 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Set the dry mixture aside.
Step 3: Create the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts, if using.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the carrot cake batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool and Prepare the Cream Cheese Drizzle
Once baked, remove the carrot cake loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and gradually add the milk while whisking until the drizzle reaches your desired consistency.
Step 7: Drizzle and Serve
Once the carrot cake loaf is completely cooled, generously drizzle the cream cheese mixture over the top. Allow the drizzle to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Step 8: Share the Joy
Share this delightful Carrot Cake Loaf with friends and family. Whether it’s enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a dessert after dinner, its moist texture and heavenly flavors are sure to bring smiles to every face.
Carrot Cake Loaf brings the beloved flavors of classic carrot cake into a convenient, sliceable form. With its warm spices, tender grated carrots, and luscious cream cheese drizzle, this loaf offers a comforting and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in each slice of this irresistibly moist and flavorful carrot cake loaf.
