This easy moist carrot bread is a delicious treat! Loaded with sweet carrots and warm spices, it’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. You can even sneak in some nuts or raisins if you like!
I love how simple it is to make—just mix, pour, and bake! It makes your kitchen smell amazing, and you can enjoy a slice with a cup of tea. What’s better than that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your bread. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend. It usually works just as well!
Baking Soda and Baking Powder: Both leavening agents help the bread rise. Ensure they are fresh for the best results. You can skip baking powder if you double the baking soda, just remember to balance any acidity.
Carrots: Freshly grated carrots are key for moisture and sweetness. If you want to save time, pre-packaged grated carrots are a quick substitute. But fresh adds a better texture!
Nuts and Raisins: These add great texture and flavor, but feel free to omit them if you prefer a simpler bread. Chopped apples or cranberries can be used as alternatives for a fun twist!
How Do I Get My Carrot Bread to Be Extra Moist?
To ensure your carrot bread stays moist, the key is in the oil and how you handle the flour. Here are some steps to follow:
- Use enough oil; it keeps the bread tender. Do not be tempted to reduce it.
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients only until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
- Add the carrots last and fold gently. They add moisture and sweetness without overworking the batter.
- Check the bread a few minutes before the suggested time. Every oven is different; if it’s done early, take it out to prevent drying out.
Easy Moist Carrot Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups finely grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious carrot bread recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 50-60 minutes to bake. After that, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan and then completely on a wire rack. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 20 minutes for the whole process, including cooling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan to ensure your bread comes out easily later.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This step ensures your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat the granulated sugar and eggs together until they are well mixed. Then, add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing everything together until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your bread tough.
5. Add Carrots, Nuts, and Raisins:
Fold in the finely grated carrots gently, and if you’d like, sprinkle in the chopped walnuts or pecans and raisins. This is where your bread gets its flavorful texture and sweetness!
6. Pour Into Loaf Pan:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly so it bakes evenly in the oven.
7. Bake the Bread:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
8. Cool the Bread:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Slice and Enjoy:
Once cool, slice the carrot bread and serve it. Enjoy a slice with your favorite cup of tea or coffee! This bread is delightful fresh but can also be stored for a few days at room temperature.
FAQ About Easy Moist Carrot Bread
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. To lighten it up a bit, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a nice balance.
How Should I Store Leftover Carrot Bread?
Store any leftover carrot bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to Customize My Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like crushed pineapple, coconut, or even chocolate chips. Just keep in mind that adding too much moisture can affect the final texture, so adjust accordingly!
What If I Don’t Have Raisins or Nuts?
No problem at all! You can simply omit them. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using dried cranberries, chopped apples, or leave it plain for a classic carrot bread experience!
