Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Orange and Carrot Bread is a delightful twist on the traditional carrot cake. The bright citrus notes from the orange juice and zest perfectly complement the sweetness of the grated carrots, making each bite a perfect balance of fresh and flavorful. With the option to add walnuts, this bread offers a great mix of textures too, with a soft crumb and satisfying crunch. It’s the ideal treat for any time of day, and its rich, comforting flavor is sure to please all palates.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
- Fold in the grated carrots and optional chopped walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 10 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- Vegan Option: Replace the butter with a plant-based butter substitute and the eggs with flax eggs or another egg replacement to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this bread gluten-free.
- Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to complement the cinnamon for a spiced-up version of this bread.
- Add-ins: If you don’t like walnuts, try adding raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness and texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store your Orange and Carrot Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy it warm, simply slice and reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast slices lightly in the oven.
FAQs
1. Can I make this bread without walnuts?
Yes, you can omit the walnuts if you prefer. You could also substitute them with other add-ins like raisins or even chocolate chips.
2. Can I use pre-grated carrots?
Freshly grated carrots will yield the best results, but you can use pre-grated carrots if you’re short on time. Just be sure to use finely grated carrots for the best texture.
3. How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this bread healthier, you can substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, and swap the butter for a healthier oil like coconut or olive oil.
4. Can I double this recipe to make two loaves?
Yes, you can double the ingredients to make two loaves. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly and check for doneness with a toothpick.
5. Is this bread suitable for breakfast?
Absolutely! This Orange and Carrot Bread is perfect for breakfast, especially with a cup of tea or coffee.
6. Can I add more orange zest for extra citrus flavor?
Yes, if you love a strong citrus flavor, feel free to add more zest to the bread. You can use up to two oranges worth of zest for an extra zing.
7. How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs attached, the bread is ready.
8. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with different flours like whole wheat or almond flour, though this may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
9. How long should I let the bread cool before cutting?
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to ensure the best texture.
10. Can I add other vegetables to the bread?
You can add other finely grated vegetables like zucchini, but keep in mind that this might change the moisture level, so adjust accordingly.
Conclusion
This Orange and Carrot Bread is the perfect blend of citrusy freshness and wholesome sweetness. Whether you’re preparing it for breakfast, a snack, or a cozy tea time, this bread is sure to be a hit with everyone. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and, most importantly, incredibly delicious! Enjoy a slice today and savor the comforting flavors of homemade goodness.
Print
Orange and Carrot Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Orange and Carrot Bread combines the zesty flavor of orange with the natural sweetness of grated carrots, creating a perfectly moist and flavorful loaf. Ideal for breakfast, a snack, or as an afternoon tea treat, this bread is simple to make and features optional walnuts for added crunch. With its balance of fresh citrus and tender texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
- Fold in the grated carrots and optional chopped walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a vegan version, swap the butter with plant-based butter and replace eggs with flax eggs or another egg substitute.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a spicier flavor.
- This bread can also be customized with raisins or dried cranberries instead of walnuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Bread, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
