Carrot Pound Cake

Short Description

Carrot Pound Cake is a moist, dense, and flavorful dessert that combines the rich texture of a classic pound cake with the warm spices and natural sweetness of carrots. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from brunch to holiday gatherings, and pairs beautifully with a smooth cream cheese glaze or dusting of powdered sugar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A dense yet moist texture, perfect for slicing
• Packed with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg
• Made with fresh carrots for natural sweetness
• Simple to make, yet impressive enough for special occasions
• Delicious with or without frosting

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Carrot Pound Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Buttermilk
• Carrots, grated
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional):

• Cream cheese, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Milk or heavy cream
• Vanilla extract

Directions

Make the Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or bundt pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, until combined.
6. Fold in grated carrots and chopped nuts (if using).
7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Cream Cheese Glaze:

1. In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until desired consistency is reached.
3. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8–10
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Spiced Version: Add cloves or allspice for a deeper spice profile.
• Tropical Twist: Stir in shredded coconut and crushed pineapple.
• Chocolate Lovers: Mix in white chocolate chips or drizzle with melted chocolate.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Healthier Version: Swap half the butter for applesauce or Greek yogurt.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: Microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds for a fresh taste.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

Freshly grated carrots work best, as pre-shredded ones can be dry.

Do I need to peel the carrots?

Yes, peeling removes bitterness and ensures a smooth texture.

Can I make this cake in a bundt pan?

Yes! A bundt pan creates a beautiful presentation—just adjust baking time slightly.

How do I prevent my pound cake from being too dense?

Be sure to cream the butter and sugar well and avoid overmixing the batter.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.

Can I omit the nuts?

Absolutely! The cake is delicious with or without them.

What other frostings work well with this cake?

A simple vanilla glaze, caramel drizzle, or maple cream cheese frosting are great options.

Can I make this into cupcakes?

Yes! Bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.

Is this cake overly sweet?

No, the balance of sugar, spices, and carrots makes it perfectly sweet without being overpowering.

Conclusion

Carrot Pound Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, offering a moist, flavorful, and comforting bite in every slice. Whether served with a cream cheese glaze or enjoyed plain, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Try it today for a cozy and delicious treat!

Print