Name: Delicious Carrot Cake Loaf: 7 Easy Steps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups (210g) 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; ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar; ¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar; ¾ cup (180ml) vegetable oil; 3 large eggs, room temperature; ¼ cup (60g) sour cream, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups (180g) freshly grated carrots; ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); ½ cup (60g) raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

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There’s something truly comforting about the warm, inviting aroma of a freshly baked Carrot Cake Loaf filling the kitchen—a scent that promises homemade goodness in every slice. This delightful treat, often called a carrot bread recipe, offers the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it a favourite for many home bakers. Whether you want a cosy dessert or a sweet breakfast option, this carrot cake loaf recipe will impress you.

Ingredients List

Gather the following ingredients to create your carrot cake loaf:

1 ¾ cups (210g) 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
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar
¾ cup (180ml) vegetable oil
3 large eggs, room temperature
¼ cup (60g) sour cream, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ½ cups (180g) freshly grated carrots
½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
½ cup (60g) raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

Note: Grate fresh carrots rather than pre-shredded ones for the best texture and flavour.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until fully blended.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until well blended. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can lead to a denser loaf.
Add Carrots and Optional Mix-ins: Gently fold in the grated carrots, followed by any optional add-ins like chopped nuts, raisins, or dried cranberries.
Bake: Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top for an even bake. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes clean.
Cool: Allow the loaf to rest in the pan for about 15 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

step-by-step recipe infographic for Carrot Cake Loaf

learn more for How to Test Baking Soda for Freshness

Pro Tips & Variations

Alternative Oils: While vegetable oil is standard, you can use canola or melted coconut oil for a different flavour profile.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace sour cream with unsweetened applesauce or a dairy-free yoghurt to make the loaf dairy-free.
Add a Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled loaf.
Make It Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based yoghurt alternative.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a more robust spice flavour.

Serving Suggestions

This carrot cake loaf is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

Breakfast: Serve a slice with your morning coffee or tea for a delightful start to your day.
Dessert: Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a satisfying dessert.
Please include it in your brunch spread alongside fresh fruits and other pastries.
Gifting: Wrap slices in parchment paper and tie them with a ribbon for a homemade gift.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Storage: After completely cooling the loaf, place it in an airtight container and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Wrap the loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast lightly.

FAQ About Carrot Cake Loaf

1. Can I make carrot cake loaf without nuts or raisins?

Absolutely! The nuts and raisins are optional in this recipe. If you prefer a smoother texture or are baking for someone with allergies, feel free to leave them out—your carrot cake loaf will still be moist and flavorful.

2. What’s the best way to grate carrots for a carrot cake loaf recipe?

Use a box grater or food processor with a shredding blade to freshly grate your carrots. Avoid pre-shredded carrots from the store, as they’re usually drier and don’t provide the same moisture and texture in your carrot bread recipe.

3. Can I make this carrot bread recipe gluten-free?

Yes! To achieve the best results, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Ensure that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are certified gluten-free.

4. Why is my carrot cake loaf dense instead of fluffy?

This usually happens if the batter is overmixed. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until they come together—avoid overmixing. Also, ensure your baking soda and powder are fresh for the best rise and texture.