This carrot bread is quick to make and super moist! With fresh carrots, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness, it’s a cozy treat you can enjoy any time of the day.
Trust me, it smells amazing while baking! I love slathering it with butter when it’s warm—so yummy! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing! 🥕🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Freshly grated carrots are key to moisture and sweetness! If you don’t have fresh carrots, you can use pre-packaged grated carrots or even swap them for zucchini for a different flavor and texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but if you’re gluten-free, feel free to substitute with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum for great results.
Sugars: I like using a mix of granulated and brown sugar for a deeper flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use coconut sugar or honey. Remember, honey will add more moisture, so you may need to slightly adjust the other liquids.
Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil keeps the bread moist. You can replace it with melted coconut oil or even applesauce for a lower-fat option. Just bear in mind that using applesauce may change the flavor slightly.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add crunch and richness. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great substitutes. You can also skip them entirely if you prefer a nut-free bread!
How Do I Ensure My Carrot Bread Stays Moist?
To keep your carrot bread perfectly moist, it’s crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Too much flour can dry it out, so spoon flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping directly. Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter, which can make the bread dense.
- Make sure to use fresh, finely grated carrots. They distribute better and contribute to moisture.
- Including crushed pineapple is a great way to add moisture and a hint of sweetness. Drain it well to avoid excess liquid!
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps it finish cooking and stay moist.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge. It stays moist longer this way!
Quick and Moist Easy Carrot Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups finely grated fresh carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional for extra moisture)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 50-60 minutes for baking. After it’s baked, let it cool for a bit before slicing. Altogether, expect about 1 hour and 15 minutes to make this delightful carrot bread from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan and grease it well, then dust it lightly with flour. Alternatively, you can line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg (if you’re using it). This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Use a whisk to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the Carrots and Pineapple:
Next, gently fold in the grated carrots and the drained crushed pineapple (if you’re adding it). This adds tremendous moisture and flavor to your bread!
5. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures:
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold everything together until just combined. Make sure not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.
6. Add Nuts (If Using):
If you’d like to include walnuts or pecans, fold them into the batter at this stage. They’ll add a lovely crunch!
7. Bake Your Bread:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
8. Cooling Time:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Slice and Serve:
After the bread has cooled down, slice it up and serve it plain or with a spread of butter or cream cheese. Enjoy your delicious and moist carrot bread!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. To maintain moisture and lightness, consider using a half-and-half mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this carrot bread vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg), and use a plant-based oil like coconut or canola oil. Ensure that the sugars you use are vegan-friendly, as some sugar is processed with bone char.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Carrot Bread?
Store any leftover carrot bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, slice it and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins to the Batter?
Absolutely! Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or even chocolate chips can be delightful additions. Just make sure to adjust the sugar slightly if you’re adding sweet mix-ins like chocolate or dried fruit to ensure it doesn’t become too sweet.
