Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup ghee (melted)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 1/2 cups grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground black pepper (optional for a spicier kick)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted ghee and brown sugar until well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Mix in the grated carrots and milk until incorporated.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper.
6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. If using nuts, fold them in at this stage.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting (with Ghee)

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup ghee (softened)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Beat the softened ghee and cream cheese together in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined.
3. Add the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon (if using), and continue beating until fluffy.
4. Once the chai-spiced carrot loaf is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.

Tips:

• The spices in this recipe bring out a chai-inspired warmth, perfect for complementing the sweetness of the carrots.
• For added texture, you can also fold in shredded coconut or raisins.
• Store the loaf in the fridge to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh, and let it sit at room temperature before serving.

This chai-spiced carrot loaf is a flavorful twist on classic carrot cake with the warmth of chai spices and the richness of ghee!