Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of irresistible aromas and decadent flavors? This isn't just another carrot cake recipe—this is Mimi's legendary Carrot Cake Loaf that promises to elevate your baking game from ordinary to extraordinary! Imagine a perfectly moist, spice-infused loaf that's packed with sweet, tender carrots and a warmth that hugs your senses with every single bite. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious kitchen novice, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 70 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 Loaf
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, grate fresh carrots using a box grater or food processor until you have 1 1/2 cups of finely grated carrots.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- In another bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to ensure no lumps remain.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Gently fold the grated carrots into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality carrots and grate them just before mixing for maximum moisture and flavor.
- Don't overmix the batter—stir just until ingredients are combined to keep the loaf tender.
- For extra richness, consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Check doneness with the toothpick test: it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing to help it set and prevent crumbling.
- Store the loaf wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain moisture for up to 3-4 days.
- For an optional flavor boost, you can add a cream cheese glaze or dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 35mg
