This Carrot Cake Banana Bread is a delicious fusion of two classic treats—carrot cake and banana bread. Moist, flavorful, and packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. With the sweetness of overripe bananas and the earthiness of shredded carrots, this bread offers a delightful texture and taste that improves as it sits. Enjoy it plain, or add some crushed walnuts or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
Total Time: 1 hour
Active Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups white, spelt, or oat flour (240g)
- 1 tsp baking soda (5g)
- 1 tsp cinnamon (2.5g)
- 3/4 tsp baking powder (3g)
- 3/4 tsp salt (4g)
- Optional: 1/8 tsp nutmeg (0.5g)
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups mashed overripe banana (about 3-4 bananas, 360g)
- 1/2 cup finely shredded carrot (60g)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, honey, or agave (120ml)
- 1/4 cup milk of choice or water (60ml)
- 1/4 cup oil or additional water (60ml)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract (10ml)
- 2 eggs
- Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup crushed walnuts (60g)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (40g)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, baking powder, salt, and optional nutmeg. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, shredded carrot, maple syrup (or honey/agave), milk, oil (or additional water), vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently to form a batter, being careful not to overmix.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, fold in crushed walnuts and/or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake on the center rack for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
- Cool and Store: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate the bread overnight. The taste and texture improve significantly after resting for a day or two.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice and enjoy the bread plain, or spread with softened coconut butter for a delicious twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Spread with softened coconut butter, sweetened if desired.
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or vegan yogurt for a balanced snack.
- Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Cooking Tips
- Ripeness Matters: Use overripe bananas for a sweeter flavor and moist texture.
- Texture Add-ins: Adding walnuts or shredded coconut gives the bread a delightful crunch.
- Patience is Key: The bread tastes even better after resting for a day or two in the refrigerator, so plan to make it in advance.
Nutritional Benefits
- Bananas: Rich in potassium and natural sugars, providing energy.
- Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Flour Options: Using whole grain flour adds fiber and nutrients.
- Eggs: A source of protein and essential vitamins.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and choose a plant-based milk.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oat flour.
- Nut-Free: Omit walnuts.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, estimated)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugars: 12g
- Fat: 5g
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Slice and wrap individually, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or warm in the microwave for a quick snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A unique combination of banana bread and carrot cake that is both moist and flavorful.
- Easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted for various dietary needs.
- Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a quick snack.
Conclusion
This Carrot Cake Banana Bread is a delightful fusion of two beloved classics. It combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the earthy flavor of carrots, making it a unique and tasty treat. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or after a day or two of chilling, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home. With its delicious flavor and moist texture, it’s a treat everyone will love!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with gluten-free flour like almond or oat flour to make it gluten-free. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg). - What other sweeteners can I use instead of maple syrup, honey, or agave?
You can use date syrup, coconut sugar, or any liquid sweetener of your choice. - Can I omit the oil completely?
Yes, you can use additional water or applesauce instead of oil for a lower-fat version. - How do I prevent the bread from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to grease the pan well or line it with parchment paper. - Can I add other spices to this recipe?
Yes, you can add spices like ginger, allspice, or cardamom to enhance the flavor. - How do I make the bread sweeter without using refined sugar?
Using very ripe bananas and adding a bit more honey or maple syrup will increase the sweetness. - What can I use as a topping for this bread?
You can use softened coconut butter, a cream cheese frosting, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. - Can I make muffins with this recipe?
Yes, you can pour the batter into muffin tins and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. - What’s the best way to mash the bananas?
Use a fork or potato masher to mash bananas until smooth, or blend them for an even consistency.