1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined and no dry streaks remain.
5. Add Carrots and Optional Ingredients:
- Fold in the grated carrots until evenly distributed throughout the batter. If using, also fold in the chopped nuts and raisins.
6. Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
7. Cool:
- Allow the carrot loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Serve:
- Slice and serve the carrot loaf plain, or if desired, dust with powdered sugar or top with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice for added sweetness.
Tips:
- Moisture is Key: The grated carrots add moisture to the loaf, making it deliciously tender. Be sure not to overbake to maintain its moist texture.
- Customization: Feel free to customize your carrot loaf by adding in your favorite spices, such as ginger or cloves, or by incorporating other mix-ins like coconut flakes or dried cranberries.
- Storing: This carrot loaf keeps well at room temperature for a few days when wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Enjoy your homemade Carrot Loaf as a delightful breakfast, a snack, or a dessert. Its rich flavor and moist texture are sure to make it a hit with both adults and kids alike.