Carrot Bread Recipe

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Carrot Bread Recipe

This delectable Carrot Bread is a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, with a hint of sweetness and a subtle carrot flavor. The recipe is incredibly easy to follow and requires simple pantry staples. Imagine biting into a moist and fluffy slice of bread, filled with juicy grated carrots, warm spices, and a touch of cinnamon.

Ingredients

• 190 g (1 cup and 5 tablespoons) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• ⅛ teaspoon salt (optional)
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 155 g (¾ cup) granulated sugar
• 110 g (½ cup) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 230 g (2 cups) grated carrots
• 60 g (½ cup) walnuts, roughly chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease an 8 ½ x 4 ½ inch loaf pan and line the bottom and sides with parchment paper.

1. Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, combine flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt (if using). Set aside.

1. Prepare Carrots and Walnuts

• Roughly chop the walnuts and set aside. Peel and grate the carrots, then set aside.

1. Combine Sugar and Eggs

• In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and eggs for about 45 seconds until just combined.

1. Add Wet Ingredients

• Stir in olive oil and vanilla extract until just combined.

1. Incorporate Dry Ingredients

• Add the flour mixture in two batches, stirring until just combined. Use a whisk for the first batch and a spoon or spatula for the second.

1. Add Carrots and Walnuts

• Stir in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts.

1. Bake

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

1. Cool and Serve

• Allow the loaf to cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Tips for Perfecting Carrot Bread

• Ingredient Variations: You can add walnuts, raisins, pecans, or chocolate chips. A cinnamon swirl or streusel topping adds extra flavor.
• Sugar Adjustments: Adjust the sugar amount for sweetness. 1 cup of brown sugar makes it sweeter, while ¾ or ⅔ cup yields a lightly sweetened loaf.
• Oil Alternatives: Substitute with unsweetened applesauce, yogurt, mashed banana, crushed pineapple, or sour cream for a different flavor profile.
• Carrot Preparation: Shred whole carrots at home for moisture, as pre-shredded carrots tend to be dry.
• Spice Enhancements: Add ginger for a zingy flavor without overpowering the bread.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve plain or with nuts, raisins, or dried cranberries.
• Top with cinnamon cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream for extra flavor.
• The batter can be used for muffins or mini loaves, adjusting the baking time accordingly.

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store the loaf at room temperature for 3-4 days.
• Refrigerated: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. If frosted, it’s best to refrigerate.

Enjoy your delicious Carrot Bread!