Description
This Easy Carrot Cake Loaf with zucchini is a moist and flavorful cake perfect for any occasion. Combining shredded carrots and zucchini adds natural moisture and nutrition, while the blend of brown and white sugars gives it a balanced sweetness. Finished with an optional caramel or vanilla icing, this loaf is a delightful treat that’s simple to prepare and bake.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded zucchini
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (olive oil recommended)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup yogurt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Optional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup crushed walnuts
- Vanilla or caramel icing for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the large egg, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and yogurt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.
- Incorporate dry into wet: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter which can make the cake dense.
- Add vegetables and nuts: Fold in the shredded carrots and zucchini, and if desired, add the crushed walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake the loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and decorate: Allow the loaf to cool on a wire rack completely. Once cooled, optionally top with vanilla or caramel icing before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make sure to shred the carrots and zucchini finely for even distribution and moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding the flour to keep the loaf tender and light.
- The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness at around 55 minutes.
- Optional nuts add crunch, but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
- Using yogurt helps keep the loaf moist; you can substitute with sour cream if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
