Description

Moist, warmly spiced, and irresistibly rich, this Cream Cheese Filled Carrot Cake Loaf blends the homey comfort of classic carrot cake with a luscious surprise of creamy cheesecake at its center. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option, an easy dessert idea, or a make-ahead snack for the week, this loaf checks every box. It’s beginner-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and totally freezer-safe—ideal for those on the hunt for breakfast ideas, food ideas, or just a new go-to easy recipe.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

2 large eggs

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1/4 cup applesauce

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups finely grated carrots

8 oz cream cheese

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg yolk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar or chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

3. In another bowl, beat eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add in oil, applesauce, and vanilla.

4. Gently mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Fold in grated carrots.

5. In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

6. Pour half the carrot batter into the pan and spread evenly. Spoon the cream cheese layer over it, without mixing. Top with remaining batter and smooth.

7. Optionally sprinkle cinnamon sugar or pecans on top.

8. Bake for 50–60 minutes, tenting loosely with foil if browning too quickly.

9. Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then lift out using parchment. Cool fully before slicing.

Notes

Always use freshly grated carrots for better moisture and texture.

Make sure cream cheese is room temperature to avoid a lumpy filling.

Let the loaf cool completely for neat, clean slices without smearing the center.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 280
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg