Carrot Cake Banana Bread Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Carrot Cake Banana Bread is a delightful twist on classic banana bread. It combines the sweet flavor of ripe bananas with the warm spices and texture of carrots. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. It’s easy to make, and the results are delicious and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas and leftover carrots!

How to Make Carrot Cake Banana Bread

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or raisins

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork.
3. Add the grated carrots, sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined.
4. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
6. If desired, fold in the nuts or raisins.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Banana Bread

Carrot Cake Banana Bread is best served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy it plain, or spread a little butter or cream cheese on top. It pairs nicely with a cup of coffee or tea. For a special treat, serve it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup.

How to Store Carrot Cake Banana Bread

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to slice the bread before freezing for easy serving later.

Tips to Make Carrot Cake Banana Bread

• Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Grate the carrots finely for even distribution in the bread.
• Do not overmix the batter; this will keep your bread light and fluffy.
• Feel free to add spices like ginger or cloves for extra flavor.
• Check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding ingredients like crushed pineapple, coconut, or even chocolate chips for a richer taste. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Frozen bananas work great in this recipe. Just thaw them and mash them before adding them to the mixture.

2. Can I substitute the sugar?
Yes, you can use alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but this may change the texture slightly.

3. How do I know when the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done. If it comes out wet, bake for a few more minutes.