Carrot Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
Moist, spiced, and topped with a luscious cream cheese drizzle.
Introduction
Carrot cake is a timeless favorite, but this pound cake variation takes it to the next level. With a rich buttery base, warm spices, and finely grated carrots folded in, it bakes into a tender loaf that’s perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or holiday tables. The cream cheese glaze adds a silky finish that makes each slice irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Cake
2 cups all‑purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1½ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups finely grated carrots
½ cup sour cream
½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat Oven: 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5‑inch loaf pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (3–5 minutes).
Add Eggs & Vanilla: Mix in eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
Combine: Alternate adding dry ingredients and sour cream, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
Fold In: Stir in grated carrots and walnuts if using.
Bake: Pour batter into pan, smooth top, and bake 60–70 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool: Rest in pan 15 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
Make Glaze: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until pourable.
Finish: Drizzle glaze over cooled cake.
Recipe Notes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: ~85 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: ~380 per slice
Tips for Success
Use finely grated carrots for even distribution and tender texture.
Chill cream cheese before making glaze for a smooth consistency.
Don’t overmix once dry ingredients are added — this keeps the cake soft.
Store leftovers tightly wrapped; flavor deepens after a day.
Fun Variations
Citrus Twist: Add orange zest to the batter for brightness.
Tropical Flair: Fold in shredded coconut or crushed pineapple.
Nutty Crunch: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds.
Spiced Glaze: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze.
Storytelling Element
Imagine slicing into this loaf — the golden crust giving way to a moist, spiced interior flecked with carrots, finished with a creamy glaze that drips down the sides. It’s rustic yet elegant, the kind of cake that feels at home on both a casual coffee table and a festive dessert spread.
Conclusion
This Carrot Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a versatile dessert that balances comfort and sophistication. Perfect for spring celebrations, cozy weekends, or gifting to loved ones.