Description
A soft, moist carrot cake loaf made with freshly grated carrots, warm cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg. This easy homemade loaf is comforting, simple to prepare, and perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots and the chopped walnuts or pecans, if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Freshly grated carrots give the loaf the best moisture and texture.
- Do not overmix the batter or the loaf may turn out dense.
- You can add 1/2 cup raisins or a little crushed pineapple for variation.
- A light cream cheese glaze or frosting pairs well with this loaf once fully cooled.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
- To make muffins, divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18 to 22 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 364
- Sugar: 33g
- Sodium: 321mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 47mg
