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Carrot Bread
This moist cakey Carrot Bread is full of that classic carrot cake flavor with half the hassle! By itself it makes a quick and easy weekday breakfast or pair it with the optional cream cheese spread for a decadent and delicious dessert!
You read that right, carrot bread! It’s sort of like carrot cake, but much less commitment. With this recipe, you won’t have the remnants of a large tiered cake slowly sagging on the counter over the many days it takes to consume. In fact, it may be gone quicker than you think. This delicious vegetable sweetloaf is often overshadowed by the zucchini and banana bread recipes of the world, but this bright baked good deserves to be on the podium when it comes to taste and versatility. Mamaw killed it with such a simple gathering of ingredients. Take a minute to look in the veggie drawer of your refrigerator, is it there? The partial bag of shredded carrots? Really, does anyone ever finish the bag? So not only is this a surprise treat, it is also a great way to reduce waste.
It can be eaten anytime, but it’s a perfect grab for breakfast and complements any morning beverage. Just for fun, I made a cream cheese spread for this, but instead of icing the bread, I served it alongside, to be slathered on the warm or cold slice.
Butter, jam or any other favorite topping will work with this baked perfection as well. Or, it can stand alone and that’s the way my husband likes it, plain.
While it’s not as moist as many cakes or breads, (in fact it crumbles along the edges like a scone), the flavor is not dry or dull. It is sweet and lovely with notes of cinnamon and nutmeg shining through. It definitely tastes like something you would enjoy on a front porch or under the magnolia tree with a glass of sweet tea. Maybe you can make some and share it with your mamaw while you talk about life.
Serving Suggestions and Adaptations
Not a fan of nuts? – Feel free to swap out the walnuts or pecans for whatever nuts you prefer, or you can omit them completely!
Upgrade your add ins! – Feeling creative? Spice it up with any of your favorite add ins! Coconut and raisins are some of our favorites!
The icing is optional! – Looking for something a little less dessert and a little more breakfast? Feel free to omit the icing! However, if you’re looking for a fresh and decadent spring dessert this cream cheese icing is the perfect addition!
To Save for Later…
On the counter: To prevent drying out, store in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
In the fridge: To maintain freshness store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Reheat for 10-15 seconds in the microwave for that fresh from the oven taste.
In the freezer: To save for later, store in a freezer safe bag in the freezer for up to 6 months. Thaw and reheat for the freshest flavor.
Carrot Bread
Ingredients
Carrot Bread Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1½ cup carrot finely grated
- ½ cup walnuts
- 2 eggs
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup oil
- 1½ cup flour
- ½ tsp nutmeg
Cream Cheese Spread Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese room temperature
- 1½ tbsp butter salted, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup pecans toasted, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Carrot Bread Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350° and grease a 9x13 inch loaf pan.
- Mix oil and sugar together in a large bowl.
- Add eggs and salt to sugar mixture and mix well.
- Stir in carrots and walnuts and set aside.
- In a separate medium bowl, sift all dry ingredients together.
- Slowly add dry ingredients to carrot mixtures, stirring just until combined. (Do not overmix!)
- Pour batter into greased bread pan and bake at 350° for 1 hour.
Cream Cheese Spread Instructions
- While bread is baking, beat butter and cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt and beat until smooth.
- Spread on top of finished bread and top with toasted chopped pecans.
- Slice and enjoy!
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