If you’re looking to brighten your kitchen with a cozy, moist treat that combines the natural sweetness of apples and the earthy charm of carrots, this Carrot Apple Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. Each slice bursts with warm spices and tender textures, making it perfect for an energizing breakfast, a snack with afternoon tea, or a comfort food fix any time of day. This recipe captures the best of fall flavors, wrapped in a golden loaf that’s as inviting as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Carrot Apple Bread Recipe is simple yet essential, coming together to create that perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture. From the aromatic spices to the fresh fruits and nuts, each element plays its part beautifully.
- All-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and a tender crumb.
- Baking soda and baking powder: These leavening agents help the bread rise for a light, fluffy texture.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Warm spices that add depth and cozy aromas.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without overpowering flavors.
- Brown sugar and granulated sugar: Provide sweetness and contribute to a perfect crust.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses a subtle sweet fragrance that lifts the whole loaf.
- Grated carrots: Bring natural sweetness, moisture, and a wonderful texture.
- Chopped or grated apple: Adds fresh juiciness and brightness.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Give a crunchy contrast that’s lovely but not mandatory.
How to Make Carrot Apple Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your bread won’t stick and will come out with a perfect shape and crust.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend of dry ingredients carries the spices evenly through the bread and sets the foundation for a light rise.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with vegetable oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This step creates a lovely mixture that will envelop the carrots and apples with sweetness and moisture.
Step 4: Add Carrots and Apples
Stir in the grated carrots and the finely chopped or grated apples. Their freshness and natural juices add incredible moisture, natural sweetness, and a delightful texture to the bread.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until everything is combined. Over-mixing can make the bread tough, so keep it light and tender for the best crumb.
Step 6: Add Nuts (Optional)
If you love a bit of crunch, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans now. They bring a nutty richness that pairs perfectly with the spices and fruit.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible warm aroma during this time.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step helps the bread set and prevents it from becoming soggy.
How to Serve Carrot Apple Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple yet delightful touch, spread a little butter or cream cheese on a warm slice of this carrot apple bread. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can also add a nice finish without overpowering the natural flavors.
Side Dishes
This loaf pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a great choice for breakfast or a cozy snack. Serve it alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced and nourishing meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests, consider slicing the bread and topping each piece with a dollop of whipped cream and a few chopped nuts. You can also toast slices lightly and spread with almond butter or a fruit jam for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover carrot apple bread keeps well wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. The moisture from the carrots and apples helps it stay soft and delicious.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully, making it a convenient make-ahead option. Wrap the cooled loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to three months, then thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, pop a slice in the toaster or microwave it for 20 to 30 seconds. This will revive the bread’s softness and enhance the comforting aromas of the spices and fruit.
FAQs
Can I use another type of apple in this Carrot Apple Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples offer a nice tart contrast, you can use sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp depending on your taste preference. Just make sure to peel and finely chop them for the best texture.
Is it necessary to peel the carrots and apples?
Peeling the apples is recommended for a smoother texture, but it’s okay to leave the carrot peel on if thoroughly washed. The peel adds nutrients and a bit of color, but too thick a peel might affect the bread’s softness.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with something else?
Yes, you can use melted coconut oil, light olive oil, or even apple sauce to reduce fat content. Keep in mind that switching to apple sauce will slightly change the texture and moisture of the bread.
What can I add for extra flavor or texture?
Try adding raisins, shredded coconut, or even a handful of dried cranberries for festive flair. Spices like ground ginger or cloves also complement the apple and carrot beautifully if you want to experiment.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The best test is inserting a toothpick or cake tester in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked. Baking too long can dry it out, so keep an eye near the 50-minute mark.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade bread that combines wholesome ingredients and heartfelt flavors, and this Carrot Apple Bread Recipe delivers exactly that. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a warm slice, this recipe promises comfort and joy with every bite. Give it a try—you’ll soon find it becoming a favorite in your baking rotation!
Print
Carrot Apple Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This moist and flavorful Carrot Apple Bread combines the natural sweetness of grated carrots and apples with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, this quick bread is easy to make and can be enjoyed warm with butter or cream cheese. With optional nuts for added crunch, it stays fresh for days and freezes well.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely grated carrots
- 1 cup peeled and finely chopped or grated apple (such as Granny Smith)
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Carrots and Apples: Stir the finely grated carrots and chopped or grated apples into the wet mixture until evenly distributed.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Nuts (Optional): If using, gently fold the chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter evenly.
- Fill Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Bread: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to ensure perfect texture.
Notes
- This bread stays moist for several days when stored properly.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
- Try adding raisins or shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
- Delicious served warm with butter or cream cheese spread.
