This Easy Moist Carrot Bread is a warm hug in loaf form! It’s packed with shredded carrots, spices, and just the right amount of sweetness to brighten your day.
I love slicing into this bread when it’s still slightly warm. It makes the kitchen smell amazing! Pair it with a cup of tea, and you’re all set for a cozy snack or breakfast.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Freshly shredded carrots add moisture and sweetness. If you’re short on time, pre-packaged shredded carrots work too. You can also use zucchini for a slight twist.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the standard. If you’re looking to make it healthier, try using whole wheat flour, but it might change the texture a bit.
Oils: I use vegetable oil for its neutrality. You can replace it with canola or melted coconut oil for a different flavor. Olive oil is a healthier option but may alter the taste slightly.
Sugars: The combination of granulated and brown sugar gives depth to the flavor. You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if you’re looking for lower sugar content.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add nice crunch. If allergies are a concern, you can leave them out or substitute with pumpkin seeds.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Moist Texture?
The key to moist carrot bread lies in the balance of ingredients and how you handle them. Here are some tips:
- Do not overmix the batter. Mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Adding crushed pineapple brings moisture. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid.
- Check your bread with a toothpick around the 50-minute mark. It’s done when it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Letting it cool in the pan prevents it from becoming too dry as it rests. Enjoy your baking!
Easy Moist Carrot Bread Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix-Ins:
- 2 cups finely shredded carrots (about 3-4 medium carrots)
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy carrot bread recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then around 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, allow the bread to cool for about 15 minutes in the pan, then cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. In total, you can expect about 1.5 hours from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prepare for your batter.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed before adding to the wet ingredients.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a larger bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and slightly fluffy. This creates a light base for your bread.
4. Add Oil and Vanilla:
Slowly pour in the vegetable oil and the vanilla extract into the sugar-egg mixture, mixing well to combine everything thoroughly.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into your wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix!
6. Fold in the Good Stuff:
Add in the shredded carrots, crushed pineapple, and any nuts you’re using. Fold these in carefully to ensure they’re well distributed without overworking the batter.
7. Bake the Bread:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your moist and flavorful carrot bread as a delicious treat any time of the day!
FAQ for Easy Moist Carrot Bread
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly denser, so you might want to add a tablespoon or two of extra liquid to compensate.
How Can I Store Leftover Carrot Bread?
Store any leftover carrot bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months!
Can I Omit the Nuts?
Yes, you can totally omit the nuts if you prefer a nut-free version or if you have allergies. The bread will still be deliciously moist and full of flavor!
What if I Don’t Have Crushed Pineapple?
No problem! If you don’t have crushed pineapple, you can replace it with unsweetened applesauce for added moisture, or simply skip it if you prefer a more traditional carrot bread flavor.
