Embrace the morning with a slice of heaven: our incredibly moist and delectable Carrot Cake Loaf. This culinary masterpiece marries the subtle sweetness of carrots with the rich indulgence of cream cheese icing, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Made with simple pantry ingredients and without any eggs, this cake is a testament to the magic of baking. The cream cheese icing, luscious and creamy, is the crown jewel that makes this cake an irresistible treat.
Why You’ll Love This: This Carrot Cake Loaf stands out for its moist crumb and exquisite flavor, offering a delightful start to your day or a comforting snack in the afternoon. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. The absence of eggs and the option for non-dairy ingredients make this cake a versatile choice for various dietary preferences. Plus, the heavenly cream cheese icing elevates it from a simple loaf to a luxurious treat.
Perfect Occasion: This Carrot Cake Loaf is the ideal centerpiece for brunch gatherings, a sophisticated addition to your breakfast table, or a thoughtful homemade gift. Its comforting flavors and moist texture make it a hit for holiday celebrations, special occasions, or as a treat to brighten an ordinary day.
Decoration Tips: To add an extra touch of elegance to your Carrot Cake Loaf, consider garnishing the cream cheese icing with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a handful of chopped walnuts, or a light zest of orange peel. These decorations not only enhance the visual appeal but also complement the flavors of the cake beautifully.
Carrot Cake Loaf Ingredients:
- 225ml Milk (choose non-dairy unsweetened or your preferred milk)
- 1 tsp White Vinegar or Lemon Juice
- 170g Granulated Sugar
- 90ml Oil
- 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 255g All-Purpose Flour
- 1.5 tsp Baking Powder
- 0.75 tsp Baking Soda
- 0.5 tsp Cinnamon Powder
- 0.25 tsp Salt
- 150g Grated Carrots (about 2-3 medium-sized, peeled)
Cream Cheese Icing Ingredients:
- 110g Cream Cheese, softened (vegan option available)
- 45g Butter, softened (vegan options available)
- 60g Powdered Sugar
- 0.5 tsp Vanilla Extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8-inch loaf pan by greasing it and lining with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Blend milk at room temperature with vinegar or lemon juice, oil, vanilla extract, and sugar until the sugar dissolves completely.
- In a different bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined. Fold in the grated carrots gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until it feels firm to the touch. Allow to cool completely.
- For the icing, whip together softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla until fluffy. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Once the loaf is cool, apply the cream cheese icing evenly over the top. For a smooth finish, use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Cut into thick slices and serve. Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 7 days for prolonged freshness.
Enjoy this delightful Carrot Cake Loaf, a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence.
