Introduction
Indulge in the delightful flavors of a homemade carrot cake that combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of grated carrots, raisins, and pecans. Topped with a creamy frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion—from birthdays to casual gatherings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Cake:
– 1⅓ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ginger
– ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 3 eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 carrots, grated
– ½ cup raisins
– ½ cup crushed pecans
Frosting:
– 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1¼ cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon heavy cream or milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 60 to 75 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes
Yield: One 9×5-inch loaf cake
To prepare this delicious carrot cake, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan for easy cake removal and set it aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. This mixture will create the flavorful base for your cake.
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is well combined. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is fully incorporated.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredient blend into the wet ingredients, taking care to stir until just combined—overmixing may affect the cake’s texture. Gently fold in the grated carrots, raisins, and crushed pecans to add texture and enhance the flavor.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and place it in the oven. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
While your cake is cooling, prepare the frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Add the heavy cream or milk and vanilla extract, beating until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Once the cake is completely cool, evenly spread the frosting on top. For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing with additional crushed pecans. Enjoy your delicious homemade carrot cake with cream cheese frosting!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray and optionally line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined.
Step 4: Add Oil and Vanilla
Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the egg mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in Add-ins
Fold in the grated carrots, raisins, and crushed pecans using a spatula.
Step 7: Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool the Loaf
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Prepare the Frosting
To prepare the frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth.
Step 11: Add Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 12: Finalize Frosting
Add the heavy cream or milk and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting reaches a smooth consistency.
Step 13: Frost the Loaf
Once the loaf has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
Step 14: Garnish (Optional)
Optionally, garnish with additional crushed pecans.
Notes
Note 1: Baking Time
Baking times may vary based on your oven and pan type, so keep an eye on the loaf towards the end of the baking time.
Note 2: Storage
Store any leftover loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Note 3: Variations
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other mix-ins, such as toasted coconut or chopped apples.
Note 4: Softening Cream Cheese
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing. You can leave it out at room temperature for about an hour before use.
Cook techniques
Measuring Flour and Sugar
When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy. For granulated sugar, scoop it directly from the container and also level it off.
Whisking Eggs and Sugar
Whisk eggs and sugar together until well combined. This process helps to incorporate air into the mixture, creating a lighter cake texture.
Incorporating Ingredients
When adding dry ingredients to wet ingredients, do this gradually and mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the cake tough.
Folding Ingredients
Gently fold in grated carrots, raisins, and crushed pecans using a spatula. This technique prevents deflating the batter and ensures even distribution of the add-ins.
Baking the Cake
Bake the cake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to open the oven door too early to maintain consistent temperature.
Cooling the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent the cake from breaking apart.
Making the Frosting
Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Adding powdered sugar gradually helps in achieving a smooth consistency without lumps.
Spreading the Frosting
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting over the top evenly using a spatula for a professional finish.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser than using all-purpose flour.
How can I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for longer storage.
Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! You can use walnuts, almonds, or any nut of your choice depending on your preference.
Is it possible to make this cake without eggs?
Yes, you can use egg substitutes like applesauce or flaxseed meal combined with water, but the texture might vary.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I add other fruits or spices to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to add other fruits like pineapple or apples, and spices like nutmeg or allspice for added flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?
You can use mascarpone cheese or make a buttercream frosting with just unsalted butter and powdered sugar.
Conclusion
The carrot cake loaf with cream cheese frosting is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The warmth of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots and raisins, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Carrot Cake Muffins
Transform the carrot cake loaf into muffins for a quick and portable option. Follow the same recipe but pour the batter into a muffin tin and adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.
Pineapple Carrot Cake
Add crushed pineapple to the batter for a tropical twist. This will not only enhance the moisture but also bring a delightful sweetness to the cake.
Spiced Nut Topping
For an added crunch, top the frosting with a spiced nut mix, incorporating walnuts, pecans, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Coconut Carrot Cake
Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a chewy texture and a hint of the tropics.
Chocolate Chip Carrot Cake
Mix in some chocolate chips for a rich and indulgent take on the classic recipe, balancing the flavors of chocolate and spices beautifully.
Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
Substitute maple syrup for the granulated sugar in the frosting for a rich, maple-flavored cream cheese topping that complements the carrot cake wonderfully.
Vegan Carrot Cake
Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use a plant-based oil to create a delicious vegan version of this moist cake without sacrificing flavor.
Carrot Cake Trifle
Layer pieces of the carrot cake with whipped cream and fruits in a trifle dish for an elegant dessert presentation that’s perfect for gatherings.
