Description
Carrot cake is a beloved dessert that brings together the sweetness of carrots with the warmth of cinnamon and nuts. These Easy Mini Carrot Cake Loaves offer all the comforting flavors of traditional carrot cake in a fun and convenient mini loaf form. Perfect for individual servings, these mini loaves are ideal for a quick snack, a special occasion, or even as a delightful gift. The addition of walnuts provides a satisfying crunch, while the moist texture ensures each bite is a treat.
Ingredients
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- 3 cups grated carrots (approximately 6 carrots)
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- 2 cups all-purpose flour
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- 1 cup granulated sugar
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- 1 cup chopped walnuts
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- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
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- 3 eggs
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- 1 teaspoon baking soda
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- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
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- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
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- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your mini loaf tray is ready when you finish mixing the batter.
Prepare the Mini Loaf Tray
Grease and flour a 6-cavity mini loaf tray to prevent the loaves from sticking. This step is essential for easy removal after baking.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This mixture will provide the structure and flavor for your mini carrot cake loaves.
Add the Wet Ingredients
To the dry mixture, add the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and tender.
Fill the Tray
Spoon the batter into the prepared mini loaf tray, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. This allows the batter enough room to rise during baking.
Bake to Perfection
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Start checking the loaves at 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center of a loaf. If it comes out clean, they are done. The exact time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Cool and Serve
Let the mini loaves cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This makes them easier to remove and ensures the loaves don’t break apart.
Notes
Serving Tips
These mini carrot cake loaves are best served at room temperature to bring out their full flavor. For an extra touch, you can dust the top with a little powdered sugar, or for a more indulgent option, top with a dollop of cream cheese frosting. They make an excellent treat for breakfast, a snack, or even a dessert. Pair them with a warm beverage like tea or coffee for a cozy and satisfying experience.
Storage Tips
To store these mini carrot cake loaves, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, store them in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to 1 week. To prevent them from drying out, wrap each mini loaf in plastic wrap before storing. If you prefer to keep them for even longer, these mini loaves can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for a few hours, or microwave them for a quick warming option.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your mini carrot cake loaves for several days, ensuring that every bite remains as delicious as when they were freshly baked.
