Carrot Cake Loaf

Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable or canola oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups freshly grated carrots
• ½ cup chopped pecans

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
   In a large bowl whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
   In another bowl whisk the eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Make the Batter
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped pecans without overmixing.
5. Bake
   Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool Completely
   Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Frosting
   Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, then continue beating until light and creamy.
8. Finish and Serve
   Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled loaf. Sprinkle with additional chopped pecans if desired before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Use freshly grated carrots for the best moisture and flavor.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the loaf tender.
• Allow the loaf to cool completely before frosting.
• Toast the pecans for deeper flavor.
• Store leftovers chilled for the freshest taste.

Storage

• Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freeze the unfrosted loaf for up to 3 months.

Variations

• Add raisins or sweetened coconut.
• Replace pecans with walnuts.
• Mix in crushed pineapple for extra moisture.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra spice.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with hot coffee or tea.
• Top with extra chopped pecans.
• Enjoy with fresh fruit.
• Serve chilled for a rich cream cheese texture.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Slice)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Sugar: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 270mg