Carrot Loaf Cream Cheese Ribbon
A moist, spice-infused carrot loaf envelops a creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese in this elegant quick bread. Shredded fresh carrots and a medley of warm spices deliver comforting flavor, while the luscious cream cheese ribbon offers a rich contrast in texture and taste. Ideal for holiday gatherings, brunch spreads, or a refined afternoon indulgence.
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Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Loaf:
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup light brown sugar tightly packed
- ½ cup neutral vegetable oil such as canola or sunflower
- ½ teaspoon finely ground sea salt
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1½ cups finely shredded carrots approximately 3 medium
- 1½ cups plain all-purpose flour
- ½ cup white granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cream Cheese Ribbon:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf tin and line it with parchment paper, allowing a slight overhang for easy removal.
- To prepare the cream cheese layer, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract in a medium mixing bowl until the mixture becomes smooth and uniform. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to combine the dry elements thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully blended and smooth. Fold in the finely shredded carrots.
- Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix.
- Pour half of the carrot batter into the bottom of the prepared loaf tin. Smooth it out into an even layer. Carefully spoon and spread the cream cheese mixture across the surface of the batter. Top with the remaining carrot mixture, spreading it gently to cover the cream cheese layer completely.
- Place the loaf in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the bread portion (avoiding the cream cheese); it should come out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool entirely prior to slicing for clean, even portions.