Classic Carrot Cake Loaf

There’s something truly comforting about a classic carrot cake loaf. Its moist, spiced layers, combined with a rich cream cheese frosting, make it a favorite for many. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, be it a family gathering, a potluck, or simply an indulgent treat for yourself. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delightful dessert.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup chopped nuts

For the Frosting:

• 3 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preparing the Cake

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the vegetable oil and sugar until well combined. This will take a couple of minutes and should result in a smooth mixture.
3. Add Eggs: Gradually add the beaten eggs to the sugar mixture, ensuring to mix thoroughly after each addition. This helps to create a smooth batter.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder. This step is crucial as it removes any lumps and evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices.
5. Blend Ingredients: Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. It’s best to do this in batches to avoid a lumpy batter. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in Carrots and Nuts: Gently fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts. This adds texture and flavor to the cake.
7. Prepare Pans: Divide the batter evenly between two greased loaf pans. Make sure the batter is evenly distributed for consistent baking.
8. Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Making the Frosting

1. Beat Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat together the confectioners’ sugar, butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
2. Cool and Frost: Allow the loaves to cool completely before spreading the frosting evenly over them. This step ensures the frosting doesn’t melt off the cake.

Serving and Storage

This recipe yields about 10 servings, making it perfect for sharing. Each serving is approximately 495 kcal, providing a deliciously indulgent treat. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

Baking this classic carrot cake loaf is a wonderful way to bring a touch of sweetness and warmth to your kitchen. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Enjoy each bite of this moist, flavorful cake, and don’t forget to share with friends and family!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Happy baking!