Carrot Cake Banana Bread

Cozy up your kitchen with this delightful Carrot Cake Banana Bread, combining the sweetness of ripe bananas with the warm, spicy notes of grated carrots. It’s not just a treat; each slice offers a wholesome experience packed with flavors that will make your home feel inviting and loved.

Growing up, I can still remember my mother’s laughter filling the air while she mixed her mysterious concoctions, the smell of spices swirling around us. This bread, in particular, brings back those cherished memories, turning a simple afternoon into a cozy gathering with family, where we would gather around the kitchen table and share stories as the sun set outside. My kids fondly call it “snack cake,” and to them, it’s the perfect companion to warm tea or hot chocolate on chillier days.

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A Slice of Joy

This Carrot Cake Banana Bread isn’t just a delicious snack; it’s also a way to sneak in some fruit and veggies into your day, making it a win-win for parents and kids alike. The bananas lend their natural sweetness, while the carrots add moisture and a bit of earthiness, ensuring every slice is perfectly tender. Just wait until you take it out of the oven; your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone in for a taste.

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What You’ll Need

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup finely grated carrots
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• ½ cup raisins (optional)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in the grated carrots, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in walnuts and raisins if using.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If browning too quickly, tent with foil.
7. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

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Nutrition Values

• Serving size: 1 slice
• Calories: 180
• Protein: 3g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 2g

Packed with wholesome fiber and natural sweetness, this recipe keeps you feeling satisfied without the heaviness of typical desserts.

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Perfect Pairings for This Dish

This lovely Carrot Cake Banana Bread pairs beautifully with a cup of steaming chai or a glass of cold almond milk. It’s perfect for a cozy brunch with friends or as a sweet treat after dinner. I love slicing it up and serving it with a dollop of cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence. Trust me, a slice of this bread can easily turn an ordinary afternoon into a special occasion.

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Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

To keep your Carrot Cake Banana Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to savor it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours or pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat.

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Chef Betty’s Secrets

1. Ripe Bananas are Essential: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and moister your bread will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for the best flavor.

2. Grate Carrots Finely: Use a fine grater to ensure the carrots blend seamlessly into the batter, providing moisture without the texture being too chunky.

3. Adjust Spices to Your Taste: Feel free to add more cinnamon or experiment with spices like cardamom or allspice to customize the flavor to your liking.

4. Try Different Mix-Ins: Get creative! Adding shredded coconut or different nuts can give your Banana Bread a new twist.

5. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until combined to keep your bread light and fluffy.

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Fun Variations

Take your Carrot Cake Banana Bread up a notch with these fun twists! Try adding a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy brightness or substitute half the sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. You could even spread some peanut butter or almond butter on top for a deliciously rich snack. The possibilities are endless!

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FAQs

Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely! To freeze the Carrot Cake Banana Bread, wrap it tightly and place it in the freezer. It can last for about 2 to 3 months. Just make sure to let it thaw completely before enjoying.

What’s the best substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you’re looking for an egg alternative, you can use flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken, and it works wonders!

How long will this stay fresh?
This bread is best enjoyed within 3 days at room temperature. If you store it properly in the fridge, it can last for up to a week, but I doubt it will last that long because it’s too delicious!

Can I double the recipe for meal prep?
Certainly! Doubling this recipe is a great way to have more on hand for lunches or snacks throughout the week. Plus, it freezes beautifully for later enjoyment!