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Carrot Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting
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Delightfully Moist Carrot Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Carrot Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting is an enchanting treat, perfect for any occasion, blending sweet carrots with warm spices.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword Baking, Carrot Cake Loaf, cream cheese frosting, Dessert Recipes, Easy Recipes, Moist Carrot Cake
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings 10 slices
Calories 290kcal

Equipment

  • 9x5-inch loaf pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Ingredients

For the Loaf

  • 2 cups Freshly grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup Vegetable oil Can substitute with melted coconut oil or canola oil.
  • 1 cup Brown sugar Can swap with white sugar.
  • 3 Eggs For vegan, use flax eggs.
  • 1 3/4 cups All-purpose flour Can use whole wheat pastry flour.
  • 2 teaspoons Cinnamon Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Nutmeg Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Can omit for a more straightforward taste.
  • 1/2 cup Chopped pecans Can swap with walnuts or omit.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 ounces Cream cheese Use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Butter Plant-based butter works for dairy-free.
  • 2 cups Powdered sugar Adjust for desired sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons Milk Dairy or non-dairy.

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
  • Mix dry ingredients by combining all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt in a large mixing bowl.
  • Whisk wet ingredients in another bowl by blending together vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Fold the dry mix gently into the wet ingredients using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
  • Add grated carrots along with chopped pecans (if using) into the batter. Stir until just incorporated.
  • Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with the spatula.
  • Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Frost your cooled loaf with cream cheese frosting just before serving.
  • Optional: Sprinkle with additional chopped pecans for a delightful crunch.

Notes

Freshly grated carrots provide the best moisture and texture. Avoid overmixing to maintain lightness. Bake time is crucial; monitor the loaf closely.