If you love cozy, warmly spiced treats with a touch of sweetness, you are going to fall head over heels for this Carrot Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe. This delightful loaf combines finely shredded carrots and crunchy nuts in a fragrant spice blend, all topped with a silky, sweet vanilla glaze that elevates it to something truly special. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, this bread is a crowd-pleaser bursting with textures and flavors that make every bite memorable. Trust me, once you try this Carrot Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to recipes for sharing warmth and happiness around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Carrot Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the balance of moist texture, perfect spice harmony, and that irresistible sweet finish. From the hearty shredded carrots to the smooth vanilla extract in both the bread and glaze, every ingredient is essential for that perfect flavor and baking success.
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and the perfect crumb for the bread.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise and stay fluffy inside.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic ingredients for a tender texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives that warm, comforting spice aroma.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a subtle nuttiness to the spice mix.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a gentle, zesty kick that pairs perfectly with carrots.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread while keeping it moist.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread tender and moist without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a fragrant sweetness that rounds out the spice.
- 2 cups finely shredded carrots: The star ingredient, delivering moisture, color, and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup chopped nuts: Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
- 2¼ cups powdered sugar: The base of the smooth vanilla glaze.
- 2 tablespoons half and half: Creates the perfect creamy texture for the glaze.
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup: Gives the glaze a shiny finish and a silky consistency.
- 1 teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring: Elevates the glaze with a clean vanilla taste.
How to Make Carrot Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it’s warming up, generously spray a loaf pan with nonstick spray. This ensures the carrot bread releases beautifully from the pan after baking, keeping the crust intact and presentation flawless.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, salt, and ground nutmeg. This spice-filled flour mixture forms the flavor base and helps distribute the spices evenly throughout the bread.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, blend the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until just combined. This creamy mixture becomes a flavorful, moist base that helps the bread stay tender throughout baking.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients Gently
Slow your mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour and spice mixture. Mix only until combined to avoid overworking the batter—keeping the crumb light and moist is key.
Step 5: Fold in Carrots and Nuts
Gently fold in the finely shredded carrots and chopped nuts with a spatula. This step adds wonderful texture—soft, moist bits of carrot and crunchy, toasty nuts that make every bite interesting and satisfying.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top slightly. Bake for approximately 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool completely in the pan to set properly before glazing.
Step 7: Make the Vanilla Glaze
In a small bowl, stir together powdered sugar, half and half, light corn syrup, and clear vanilla flavoring until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. This glaze will add a luscious, sweet finish that complements the warm spices in the bread perfectly.
Step 8: Glaze and Slice
Once the bread has cooled fully, carefully remove it from the pan and place it on a serving plate. Evenly spread the vanilla glaze over the top and allow it to set slightly before slicing into ¼ inch slices. Now you’re ready to enjoy every sweet, spiced bite!
How to Serve Carrot Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to sprinkle some extra chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon on the glaze for a bit of extra flair and texture. A simple garnish like that can really make your carrot bread look irresistible on a breakfast table or dessert platter.
Side Dishes
This carrot bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making a perfect morning or afternoon snack. For a richer treat, serve it alongside creamy Greek yogurt or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the spices and sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming brunch display, arrange several slices on a wooden board with fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries. You might also toast slices lightly and spread with a bit of softened cream cheese for a delightful twist that’s both crunchy and creamy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the carrot bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and fresh. Alternatively, store it in an airtight container in the fridge to extend freshness for up to a week.
Freezing
This Carrot Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual slices in a toaster oven or microwave just until heated through. If frozen, let the bread thaw completely first for best texture. The glaze adds an irresistible contrast when warmed slightly as well!
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all or part of the flour, but keep in mind it will create a denser, more rustic texture and alter the flavor slightly. It’s still delicious but be sure to not overmix to keep the bread tender.
What kind of nuts work best in this recipe?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are fantastic choices because they provide a lovely crunch and complement the warm spices wonderfully, but feel free to use your favorite nuts or even leave them out for a nut-free option.
Is the vanilla glaze necessary?
The vanilla glaze really elevates this carrot bread from a simple loaf to a sweet treat with a beautiful shine and smooth flavor. That said, you can enjoy the bread plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar if you prefer less sweetness.
How finely should the carrots be shredded?
Finely shredded carrots blend more evenly into the bread batter, keeping the texture soft and moist rather than chunky. Use the fine side of a grater or a food processor for best results.
Can I make this recipe into muffins instead of a loaf?
Absolutely! The batter works great for muffins. Just adjust baking time to about 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. The glaze can be drizzled over the muffins once cooled for the same delicious finish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Carrot Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe enough for those who love warm, cozy flavors and a touch of sweet indulgence. It’s a recipe that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas and your heart with joy. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, this bread is sure to bring smiles and second helpings. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!
Print
Carrot Bread with Vanilla Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Carrot Bread recipe features a moist and flavorful loaf made with shredded carrots, warm spices, and crunchy nuts. Finished with a sweet vanilla glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, offering a deliciously spiced treat that’s easy to prepare and bake.
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped nuts
Glaze Ingredients
- 2¼ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons half and half
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a loaf pan with nonstick spray to prevent sticking, then set it aside while you prepare the batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, salt, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined. Set this mixture aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Using a stand mixer or a handheld mixer at medium speed, mix together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is just combined and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Lower the mixer speed to low and gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until everything is incorporated to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense bread.
- Fold in Carrots and Nuts: Gently fold the finely shredded carrots and chopped nuts into the batter by hand, ensuring an even distribution without deflating the mixture.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the bread to cool completely in the loaf pan.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small mixing bowl, vigorously stir together the powdered sugar, half and half, light corn syrup, and clear vanilla flavoring until the glaze is smooth and free of lumps.
- Glaze the Bread: After the carrot bread has cooled completely, carefully remove it from the loaf pan. Evenly spread the vanilla glaze over the top of the loaf. Slice the bread into ¼ inch slices and serve.
Notes
- For best results, shred the carrots finely so they blend well into the batter without adding too much moisture.
- You can substitute chopped walnuts or pecans for the nuts depending on your preference.
- Make sure the bread is completely cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and running off.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the half and half slightly.
- This carrot bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
