This Easy Moist Carrot Bread is a warm, sweet treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. It’s packed with fresh carrots, making it tasty and colorful!
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up. Just mix the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and enjoy the lovely smell filling your kitchen! I can never resist a slice fresh out of the oven! 🍞🥕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: The star of this bread! Fresh, finely grated carrots add moisture and sweetness. If you’re short on fresh carrots, you can use pre-grated ones, but fresh is best for flavor and texture!
Oil: Vegetable oil keeps the bread moist. You can substitute with melted coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor or unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat option.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. If you need a nut-free version, just skip them or use sunflower seeds instead for some added texture.
Raisins: Optional but they add a nice sweet burst! If you’re not a fan, consider dried cranberries or even chocolate chips for a different twist.
How Do I Ensure My Carrot Bread Is Moist and Delicious?
To achieve moist carrot bread, it’s essential to not over-mix the batter. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Also, be careful not to overbake—check with a toothpick at the 50-minute mark to prevent dryness.
- Use freshly grated carrots for better moisture and flavor.
- Gently fold in carrots and any optional ingredients to avoid toughening the bread.
- Let it cool slightly in the pan to keep it from drying out.
Easy Moist Carrot Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups finely grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup raisins
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 50-60 minutes of baking time. Make sure to allow an additional 15 minutes for cooling in the pan, and then you can enjoy your delicious carrot bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, you can prepare the loaf pan.
2. Prepare the Loaf Pan:
Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or you can line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bread later.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the bread.
4. Make the Wet Mixture:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until they’re well blended and slightly fluffy. Then, mix in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually pour the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix gently just until combined, being careful not to over-mix, as this can toughen the bread.
6. Add the Carrots and Optional Extras:
Now it’s time to fold in the grated carrots into the batter. If you’re using them, gently incorporate the chopped nuts and raisins as well.
7. Pour and Smooth:
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to make it even.
8. Bake the Bread:
Place your loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it and use a toothpick to check for doneness—insert it into the center, and if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
9. Cool Before Slicing:
Once done, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your moist, delicious carrot bread as a delightful treat any time of the day!
FAQ for Easy Moist Carrot Bread
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour! Just be aware that the texture will be denser, so consider adding a little extra moisture, like an additional tablespoon of oil or applesauce, to keep it moist.
How Do I Store Leftover Carrot Bread?
Store any leftover carrot bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize your carrot bread by adding ingredients like crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. Just be mindful of the added moisture and adjust accordingly!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this carrot bread vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg). You can also use a plant-based oil and ensure that the sugar you use is vegan-friendly.
