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Moist, warmly spiced, and topped with creamy frosting this Carrot Cake Bread has all the comforting flavors of a classic carrot cake in a simple loaf form. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious!

Ingredients

For the Bread

1¾ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 cup granulated sugar
⅔ cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs, room temperature
¼ heaping cup sour cream, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1½ cups finely grated carrots (about 3 large carrots)

For the Frosting

8 oz (225 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
¼–⅓ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8.5 x 4.5-inch light-colored loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. Set aside.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, baking powder, and baking soda until well combined.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and vegetable oil until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

4. Add the Dry Ingredients and Carrots

Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined—do not overmix.
Gently fold in the grated carrots until evenly distributed.

5. Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the loaf cool completely in the pan before frosting.

6. Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and salt.
Using a hand mixer, beat until smooth and creamy.

7. Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled carrot cake bread.
Dust lightly with ground cinnamon if desired.
Slice and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines the cozy flavor of carrot cake with the simplicity of a loaf bread.
The tangy cream cheese frosting perfectly balances the sweet, spiced crumb.
Great for make-ahead breakfasts, snacks, or gifts.
Easy to make with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.

Tips

Use freshly grated carrots: Pre-shredded ones can be dry and less flavorful.
Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep the bread tender.
Cool completely before frosting: Warm bread will melt the frosting.
Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures a smooth, even batter.
Light-colored loaf pans prevent over-browning compared to dark pans.

Variations and Substitutions

Add-ins: Mix in ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins for texture.
Spices: Try adding ground ginger or allspice for a deeper flavor.
Oil substitute: Use melted coconut oil or neutral-tasting avocado oil instead of vegetable oil.
Frosting: For a lighter option, top with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze.
Dairy-free version: Replace sour cream with dairy-free yogurt and use vegan cream cheese.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The bread can be made a day in advance. Store it unfrosted at room temperature, then frost just before serving.

How do I store leftover carrot cake bread?
Keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze it?
Absolutely! Wrap the unfrosted loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then frost.

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, replace up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a denser, more wholesome loaf.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve slices of Carrot Cake Bread with:

A hot cup of coffee, latte, or chai tea.
Fresh fruit on the side for a balanced breakfast.
A drizzle of honey or caramel for extra sweetness.
A sprinkle of crushed nuts or shredded coconut for garnish.

Perfect for brunch gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a cozy homemade dessert!