Carrot Apple Bread

Why Make This Recipe

Carrot Apple Bread is a delightful way to combine the goodness of fruits and vegetables into a tasty treat. This bread is moist, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. The natural sweetness from the apples and the warmth of cinnamon make each bite comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients that you probably have in your kitchen.

How to Make Carrot Apple Bread

Ingredients:

1 large egg
1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
1/3 cup coconut oil (in liquid state; canola or vegetable oil may be substituted)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup sour cream (lite is fine; Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt (optional and to taste)
3/4 cup grated carrots (about 1 large peeled and trimmed carrot)
3/4 cup grated apples (1 medium unpeeled Fuji or similar apple)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×5 inch loaf pan with floured cooking spray or grease and flour the pan, then set it aside.
In a large bowl, add the egg, light brown sugar, coconut oil, granulated sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then whisk to combine.
Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and optional salt. Fold with a spatula or stir gently with a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the grated carrots and apples gently to combine.
Turn the thick batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top lightly with a spatula.
Bake for about 45 to 52 minutes or until the top is golden, the center is set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Carrot Apple Bread

Carrot Apple Bread is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it with a spread of butter or cream cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it a wonderful treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

How to Store Carrot Apple Bread

To store your Carrot Apple Bread, place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm it slightly in the oven.

Tips to Make Carrot Apple Bread

For extra moisture, you can add a little more sour cream or yogurt.
Make sure to grate the carrots and apples finely to ensure they mix well into the batter.
Experiment with different types of apples for varying flavors, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
Adding nuts or raisins can give your bread a nice crunch and additional flavor.

Variation

You can easily adapt this recipe by adding spices like ginger or allspice for a different flavor profile. Try mixing in some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to add texture. For a healthier option, you can reduce the sugar or use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

FAQs

Can I use other types of oil instead of coconut oil?
Yes, you can substitute coconut oil with canola or vegetable oil as they work similarly in the recipe.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but be sure to check the blend’s recommendations for best results.

How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when the top is golden brown, the center is set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.