Carrot Banana Bread

Combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the subtle earthy crunch of freshly grated carrots, this Carrot Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. It’s a wonderful twist on classic banana bread, enriched with a hint of warm spices and a tender crumb from the addition of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at quick breads for the first time, this recipe is approachable, forgiving, and absolutely delicious.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Unlike ordinary banana bread recipes, this Carrot Banana Bread is enhanced with coarsely grated carrots that add moisture and texture without overpowering the banana flavor. The use of both light brown sugar and granulated sugar creates a balanced sweetness with a slight caramel undertone. Incorporating sour cream or Greek yogurt not only boosts the bread’s tenderness but also gives it a subtle tang that complements the fruit beautifully. This combination results in a loaf that’s incredibly moist, tender, and full of nuanced flavors. Plus, the recipe calls for simple pantry staples and requires just one large egg, making it easy to whip up anytime.

Ingredient Notes

• Large Egg: Acts as a binder and helps the bread rise. Use a fresh egg at room temperature for best results.
• Light Brown Sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a mild molasses flavor. Be sure to pack it firmly into the measuring cup for accuracy.
• Canola or Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender. You can substitute with melted coconut oil if preferred, but it may add a slight coconut flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with browning. Adjust depending on your preferred sweetness level.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds richness and moisture. Greek yogurt is a great alternative with a bit more protein and tang.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and aroma. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
• All-Purpose Flour: The structure of the bread comes from flour. You may need to add a bit more flour depending on the moisture content of your bananas and carrots.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Both leavening agents help the bread rise and achieve a tender crumb.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors. Adjust according to taste.
• Coarsely Grated Carrots: Use fresh carrots, grated loosely (don’t pack tightly or squeeze out moisture). This keeps the bread moist and adds subtle texture.
• Mashed Ripe Bananas: Use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor. About two medium to large bananas yield 1 cup mashed.

Setup & Equipment

• Mixing bowls – one large for wet ingredients, one medium for dry ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements.
• Grater – preferably a box grater for coarsely shredding carrots.
• Electric mixer or whisk – to combine ingredients smoothly.
• Loaf pan (8.5 x 4.5 inches or similar size) – greased or lined with parchment paper.
• Cooling rack – for letting the bread cool evenly.
• Spatula – for folding ingredients together gently.

From Start to Finish: Carrot Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan lightly with oil or butter, or line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, ½ cup packed light brown sugar, ½ cup canola or vegetable oil, ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt. Stir to combine evenly.

Step 4: Add Carrots and Bananas

Fold in 1 cup coarsely grated carrots (loosely packed, don’t squeeze out moisture) and 1 cup mashed ripe bananas into the wet mixture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. If the batter feels too wet or loose, sprinkle in a tablespoon or two more flour, folding carefully to avoid overmixing. The batter should be thick but scoopable.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. This prevents it from becoming soggy. Slice once fully cooled and enjoy!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Oil: Replace canola or vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or light olive oil for different flavor profiles.
• Sour Cream: Use full-fat Greek yogurt as a direct substitute for a tangier taste.
• Flour: Substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier, denser loaf, but add a bit more moisture if needed.
• Sugar: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar for natural sweetness, adjusting quantities as these sweeteners vary in intensity.
• Egg: For an egg-free version, replace with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water, rested until gel-like).

Watch Outs & How to Fix

• Bread Too Dense: This often happens if you overmix the batter or use too much flour. Mix just until ingredients are combined and measure flour carefully by spooning into the cup and leveling off.
• Bread Not Rising: Check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Also, don’t overpack the carrots or bananas as excess moisture can weigh down the loaf.
• Bread Too Dry: Could be from overbaking or too much flour. Keep a close eye on baking time and test doneness early.
• Sticky or Gummy Texture: Usually caused by underbaking. Insert a toothpick and if it comes out wet, bake a few minutes longer.

Shelf Life & Storage

This Carrot Banana Bread stays fresh at room temperature for 2 to 3 days when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to one week or freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently in a toaster oven before serving.

Ask the Chef

Can I add nuts or raisins to this carrot banana bread?

Absolutely! Folding in about ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins adds delightful texture and extra flavor. Just toss them in with the carrots and bananas before combining the wet and dry ingredients.

What’s the best way to make sure my bread doesn’t stick to the pan?

Greasing the pan thoroughly with oil or butter and lining it with parchment paper that extends beyond the edges makes removal easy. Letting the bread cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring also helps prevent sticking.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the egg with a flax or chia egg, and replace sour cream with a plant-based yogurt. Use a neutral-flavored oil like canola or vegetable oil and check your sugar for vegan certification if needed.

How do I incorporate spices into this bread?

Warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger pair beautifully with carrots and bananas. Start with 1 teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg or ginger mixed into the dry ingredients for a cozy twist.

Cook This Next

• Lemon Poppy Blueberry Zucchini Bread – A bright and fruity quick bread that’s perfect for spring mornings.
• Honey Banana Muffins Recipe – Soft, naturally sweet muffins bursting with banana flavor and a touch of honey.
• Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots – A simple, sweet side dish that complements any meal beautifully.

Make It Tonight

Planning to bake this Carrot Banana Bread tonight? Gather your ingredients, prepare your equipment, and preheat your oven. This recipe is straightforward enough for a weeknight treat but special enough to impress family and friends. Serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for a comforting finish. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee, and you’ve got a perfectly cozy evening snack or breakfast ready to enjoy.

This loaf’s unique blend of tender crumb, natural sweetness, and subtle spice makes it a standout in any quick bread lineup. Whether you’re baking it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, it’s sure to become a staple recipe you reach for again and again.

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