This Carrot Cake Banana Bread combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with warm carrot cake spices, creating a soft, moist loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients (1 loaf, 8–10 slices)
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 bananas)
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (or honey/maple syrup)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mash bananas until smooth.
- Add grated carrots, sugar, oil (or butter), eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Make Batter:
- Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in nuts and raisins if using.
5. Bake:
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Serve:
- Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Carrot Cake Banana Bread
- Use very ripe bananas: They add natural sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t overmix: Keeps the bread soft and tender.
- Grate carrots finely: Helps them blend seamlessly into the batter.
- Add texture: Nuts and raisins give a classic carrot cake feel.
Optional Cream Cheese Glaze 🧁
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla
Mix until smooth and drizzle over cooled bread.
Variations
- Healthy version: Use whole wheat flour and reduce sugar.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based oil.
- Extra spice: Add ginger or cloves for deeper flavor.
Serving Ideas
- Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert
- Serve with coffee or tea
- Toast lightly and spread with butter or cream cheese
This Carrot Cake Banana Bread is moist, cozy, and packed with flavor, making it a must-bake treat for any time of year. 🥕🍌✨