Carrot Cake Loaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

15 mins Prep Time

45 mins Cook Time

Written By

Nadia Boachie

The original recipe is by Seasons and Suppers and my only modification is to opt for a glaze instead of icing and to add a little dash of cardamom. Cardamom has such a wonderful flavour that adds a little extra oomph to recipes traditionally flavoured with cinnamon. This carrot loaf recipe is extremely easy to make. It is moist and has the perfect crumb and texture. Like banana bread, this loaf is virtually foolproof and turns out great every time! The glaze offers a lighter finish than traditional cream cheese frosting. Nuts are usually optional in loaf cakes, but the walnuts take this loaf to another level. As fall is upon us, this recipe is ideal for the season of homey baking and flavourings with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom and ginger. Add this carrot cake to your baking list immediately!

If you give this recipe a shot, make sure to post up your creation on Instagram and tag @tastetoronto and @sweettreatbaker!

Ingredients

Carrot Cake

1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups grated carrots (well packed)
1 cup walnuts or pecans, finely chopped (optional)
2 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon cardamom
Pinch of salt

Brown Sugar Icing

1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
3 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans

Directions

Cake

7 Steps

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom and salt. Set aside.
Step 3

Line a 4 1/2 x 10-inch or 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 4

In a large bowl with an electric beater or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the granulated sugar and oil. Add the shredded carrots and mix in. Add the eggs and beat in. Add the nuts and stir to combine. Stir in the flour mixture and mix until well combined.
Step 5

Pour batter into prepared baking pan.
Step 6

Bake in preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the centre comes out clean.
Step 7

Cool 15 minutes in the pan, then lift out to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Icing

2 Steps

Step 1

In a small saucepan combine butter, brown sugar and milk. Bring to a simmer, whisking frequently and cook until the sugar is dissolved, a minute or two. Remove from the heat and cool for 5 minutes.
Step 2

Add vanilla, whisking to combine. Add powdered sugar 1/4 cup at a time, whisking vigorously, until you reach your desired consistency. The icing will start to firm up quickly so have the cake cooled and ready. Drizzle the icing over the cake and immediately sprinkle with nuts. The icing will set in a matter of minutes.