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Homemade Carrot Cake Loaf

This carrot cake loaf is a cozy, imperfect treat that combines grated fresh carrots, warm spices, and a moist crumb baked in a simple loaf. Its rustic appearance and fragrant aroma make it perfect for relaxed weekend mornings, offering a comforting, honest flavor with each slice. The recipe emphasizes spontaneous, forgiving baking that captures the charm of a busy, love-filled kitchen.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh carrots finely grated
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs beaten lightly
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts or raisins optional

Equipment

  • Loaf pan
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly combined. This creates a flavorful, well-distributed dry mixture.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly until they become frothy and slightly pale. Add the vegetable oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth and fragrant.
  4. Gently fold the grated carrots into the wet mixture, making sure they’re evenly distributed. The batter will start to look colorful and moist with tiny bits of carrots.
  5. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, then fold gently with a spatula until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be slightly lumpy but well incorporated.
  6. If desired, fold in chopped nuts or raisins at this stage for extra texture and sweetness.
  7. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula so it’s even and ready for baking. Place it in the oven and bake for about 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. As it bakes, the loaf will rise slightly and fill your kitchen with a warm, spicy aroma. The top should turn golden brown and feel firm when gently pressed.
  9. Remove the loaf from the oven, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
  10. Slice the loaf once cooled, revealing a moist, textured crumb dotted with bits of carrot and spice. Serve plain or with a smear of cream cheese for extra indulgence.

Notes

This loaf tastes best when cooled completely before slicing. Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.