Rustic Carrot & Raisin Harvest Cake is a cozy, old-fashioned bake that celebrates simple pantry ingredients and warm, comforting flavors. Moist grated carrots, sweet raisins, and gentle spices come together in a tender crumb that feels perfect for cool mornings, afternoon coffee, or an unfussy dessert. This is harvest-style baking at its best—honest, hearty, and quietly special.
Yield and Timing
Makes 1 loaf or 9–12 slices.
Prep time 15 minutes · Bake time 45–50 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- ¾ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups finely grated carrots
- ¾ cup raisins
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or an 8×8-inch baking dish.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a large bowl, mix the oil (or melted butter) and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined. Fold in the grated carrots, raisins, and nuts if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Rustic Carrot & Raisin Harvest Cake plain, lightly dusted with powdered sugar, or spread with a little butter. It’s lovely with coffee or tea and makes a comforting breakfast slice the next day.
Storage
Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. This cake also freezes well—slice and freeze for easy grab-and-go treats.
Why This Cake Feels Like Home
This cake shines because it’s unfussy and forgiving. The carrots keep it moist, the raisins add natural sweetness, and the spices bring warmth without overpowering. Rustic Carrot & Raisin Harvest Cake is the kind of recipe that feels familiar from the first bite—simple, nourishing, and made to be shared.
Enjoy !!!
