If you are on the lookout for a delightfully moist and flavorful treat that feels like a warm hug, then this Carrot Bread with Nutty Glaze Recipe is just what you need. Bursting with the natural sweetness of finely shredded carrots and enriched by the subtle warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, this bread is a perfect balance of cozy spices and tender crumb. The crowning glory is a glossy nutty glaze that adds a heavenly touch, making each bite simply irresistible. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch, an afternoon tea, or a homemade gift, this recipe brings comfort and joy in every slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet pack a punch in flavor and texture, combining to make this carrot bread moist, tender, and perfectly spiced. Each element plays an essential role: from the aromatic spices that give depth to the bread to the shredded carrots that provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the chopped nuts add delightful crunch.
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour: The base that creates a soft and tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise to a lovely fluffiness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to lighten the texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and an inviting spiced flavor.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, nutty sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without being overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger: Introduces a gentle zing that complements the sweetness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread just right.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds aromatic depth.
- 2 cups finely shredded carrots: The star ingredient for natural sweetness and color.
- 1 cup chopped nuts: Adds delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the glaze.
- 2¼ cups powdered sugar: For a smooth, sweet glaze that finishes the bread beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons half and half: Creates the perfect glaze consistency.
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup: Adds shine and a touch of sweetness to the glaze.
- 1 teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring: Rounds out the glaze with a subtle vanilla aroma.
How to Make Carrot Bread with Nutty Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and give your loaf pan a quick spray with nonstick spray. This ensures your carrot bread releases effortlessly after baking, keeping the crust intact and beautiful.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and nutmeg. Whisking the spices with the flour ensures even distribution, which means every bite bursts with consistent warm flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, beat the vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract on medium speed until everything just comes together. This gentle mixing helps create a light, airy base for your batter.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Mix
Lower your mixer to a low speed and gradually add the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—overmixing can lead to dense bread, so keep it gentle and restrained here.
Step 5: Fold in Carrots and Nuts
Carefully fold in the finely shredded carrots and chopped nuts. This step adds texture and natural sweetness while keeping the batter light and fluffy.
Step 6: Bake Until Perfect
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aromas will start filling your kitchen, signaling the arrival of something wonderful!
Step 7: Prepare the Nutty Glaze
While the bread cools completely in the pan, whisk together powdered sugar, half and half, light corn syrup, and clear vanilla flavoring until smooth without lumps. This glaze will add the perfect glossy finish and a hint of nutty sweetness.
Step 8: Glaze and Serve
Remove the bread from the pan once cooled, then evenly spread the glaze over the top. Slice into ¼ inch slices and get ready to enjoy the perfect balance of soft carrot bread and sweet nutty glaze.
How to Serve Carrot Bread with Nutty Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle chopped toasted walnuts or pecans over the glaze before it sets. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few edible flowers can also make your bread look stunning and inviting.
Side Dishes
This carrot bread pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee. For a cozy brunch, complement it with fresh fruit salad or creamy ricotta spread to add contrast and balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your carrot bread into charming mini loaf gifts wrapped in parchment paper tied with rustic twine. You can also cut it into cubes and serve as part of a sweet bread platter, or toast slices lightly and spread with butter or cream cheese for a simple yet delightful snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover carrot bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the bread moist and the glaze fresh without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the loaf whole or sliced for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before glazing or serving.
Reheating
Gently warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 15-20 seconds to revive the bread’s softness. If you prefer, lightly toast slices for a crisp exterior that pairs perfectly with butter.
FAQs
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with something healthier?
Absolutely! You can use melted coconut oil or even applesauce for a lighter version. Keep in mind that coconut oil might add a subtle flavor, while applesauce will reduce the fat content and add extra moisture.
Do I have to use chopped nuts in this recipe?
Nuts add a lovely texture and flavor, but if you have allergies or prefer nut-free, feel free to omit them or swap with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
How fine should I shred the carrots?
Finely shredded carrots work best to ensure they blend smoothly into the batter and keep the bread moist without large chunky pieces.
Can I make this carrot bread gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture might differ slightly but the flavor remains fantastic.
What’s the best way to store the glazed bread so the glaze stays shiny?
Store the glazed bread in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration as it may cause the glaze to dull or become sticky. Enjoy within a few days for the best shiny finish.
Final Thoughts
This Carrot Bread with Nutty Glaze Recipe truly is a crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients into a show-stopping loaf. With its tender crumb, warm spices, and that irresistible nutty glaze, it’s a recipe worth making again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this lovely treat with your friends and family — it’s pure comfort in every slice!
Print
Carrot Bread with Nutty 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
Description
This moist and flavorful Carrot Bread is a delightful twist on the traditional carrot cake, perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert. Made with finely shredded carrots, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and chopped nuts for added texture, it is topped with a smooth, sweet vanilla glaze that adds an irresistible finish. Easy to prepare and baked to perfection, this carrot bread offers a comforting and wholesome treat that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Dry 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
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Main Mix-Ins
- 2 cups finely shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
Glaze
- 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 and set it aside to ensure the bread doesn’t stick during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, salt, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Using a stand mixer or handheld electric mixer on medium speed, blend the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until just combined to create a smooth batter base.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just incorporated – avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in Carrots and Nuts: Using a spatula, carefully fold in the finely shredded carrots and chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for approximately 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the bread cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix 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 bread has fully cooled, remove it from the loaf pan and evenly spread the prepared glaze over the top. This adds a sweet and glossy finish to the bread.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the carrot bread into ¼ inch thick pieces and serve. Enjoy as a delicious snack or breakfast treat.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to avoid a dense bread.
- For extra flavor, you can toast the nuts lightly before adding them to the batter.
- If you prefer a dairy-free glaze, substitute the half and half with a plant-based milk or water.
- The glaze can be adjusted in thickness by adding more or less powdered sugar or liquid.
- Store leftover carrot bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
