Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread Recipe: Heavenly Cream Cheese Frosting

Emma here, and I’m thrilled to share this delightful carrot apple zucchini bread recipe with you. The inspiration for this recipe comes from my grandmother’s kitchen, where the air was always filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread. The combination of carrots, apples, and zucchini creates a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any occasion.

Growing up, we spent countless afternoons baking together, and this carrot apple zucchini bread became a family favorite. The recipe brings together the earthiness of shredded carrots, the subtle sweetness of apples, and the refreshing hint of zucchini. It’s not just delicious; it’s a wonderful way to sneak in some vegetables for the little ones in your life.

In this recipe, you’ll find a satisfying balance of spices and textures, making it a go-to choice for breakfast or a snack. As you embark on this baking journey, you’ll discover that the process is as enjoyable as the end result. Let’s dive into this carrot apple zucchini bread recipe and create something truly special together.

Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread Recipe

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 2 loaves 1x

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Description

Learn how to make a delicious Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread with this easy recipe. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, click here to get baking!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
• 3 eggs, room temperature
• ¼ cup (60 ml) fresh orange juice
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) vanilla extract
• 3 ¼ cups (390 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp (3 ml) salt
• 2 1/2 tsp (13 ml) baking powder
• 3/4 tsp (4 ml) baking soda
• 1 tsp (5 ml) cinnamon
• pinch of ground cloves
• pinch of ground nutmeg
• 2 cups (260 g) shredded carrots
• 1 cup (125 g) shredded zucchini
• 1 cup (125 g) diced peeled apple (Granny Smith, Fuji, whatever you have on hand)
• ½ cup (60 g) chopped pecans
• ½ cup (120 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (60 g) vegetable oil, softened
• 2 – 3 cups (240–360 g) powdered sugar
• 1–3 tbsp (15–45 ml) fresh orange juice as needed

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Instructions

1. Set your oven to heat up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Prepare two 8×4 inch loaf pans by greasing and dusting them with flour, then line them with parchment paper and put them aside. You can use a baking spray that contains flour for convenience.
3. Wrap the zucchini in a large kitchen towel, gather the corners, and twist to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Put the drained zucchini aside.
4. In a big bowl, combine and stir together the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Set this mixture aside for later.
5. In another large bowl, beat together vegetable oil and granulated sugar until well blended.
6. Add eggs, orange juice, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until everything is combined.
7. Gently incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, along with the shredded carrots, drained zucchini, apple pieces, and chopped pecans.
8. Distribute the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
9. Bake in the oven until the tops are golden brown and the loaves spring back when gently pressed, which should take about 55 to 60 minutes.
10. Allow the bread to cool down completely before adding the frosting.
11. In a bowl, use a hand mixer to blend the softened cream cheese and vegetable oil until creamy.
12. Gradually mix in 2 cups of powdered sugar and continue beating, adding orange juice as needed to reach the consistency you like.
13. Spread the frosting over the cooled bread, then enjoy your creation!

Notes

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 15g

Keywords: american, dessert, homemade

Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread Recipe: Fundamentals

Fundamentals

Understanding the fundamentals of baking this carrot apple zucchini bread recipe is essential for achieving a perfect loaf. The key ingredients like shredded carrots, zucchini, and diced apples form the base, offering moisture and a delightful burst of flavors. The spices, including cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, enhance these flavors, creating a warm, aromatic experience with every bite.

The choice of all-purpose flour provides structure and stability to the bread, while baking powder and baking soda work together to ensure a good rise and a tender crumb. Granulated sugar sweetens the loaf, balancing the natural tartness of the apples and the earthiness of the zucchini. Vegetable oil adds richness, ensuring the bread remains moist even after a few days.

Preparation/setup

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and preparing two 8×4 inch loaf pans. Grease them generously, dust with flour, and line them with parchment paper for easy removal. This preparation step is crucial for preventing the bread from sticking and ensuring a smooth baking process.

Next, focus on preparing the vegetables. Wrap the shredded zucchini in a kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is vital to prevent excess water from affecting the texture of the bread. Once done, mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl, including flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and spices, setting this mixture aside for later use.

Mastering the Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread Technique

Technique

To master the technique of making this carrot apple zucchini bread recipe, begin by blending vegetable oil and granulated sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Add eggs, orange juice, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to achieve a homogenous mixture. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients, ensuring no lumps form during the process.

Gently fold in the shredded carrots, drained zucchini, diced apples, and chopped pecans. This step ensures even distribution of ingredients, contributing to a balanced flavor profile in the final product. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula for a uniform look.

Tips/tricks

Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before use, as this aids in better emulsification, resulting in a smoother batter. When squeezing the zucchini, don’t skip this step; excess moisture can lead to a soggy loaf. Use a light hand when mixing to avoid overworking the batter, which can result in a dense texture.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter. This simple step enhances their nutty aroma and adds a delightful crunch to each slice. To discover more delicious bread options, check out this banana zucchini bread that pairs perfectly with a warm cup of tea.

Perfecting Your Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread

Perfecting results

Bake the loaves in your preheated oven, monitoring them closely as the tops turn golden brown. They should spring back when gently pressed, indicating they are perfectly baked. This should take about 55 to 60 minutes. Allow the bread to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting, ensuring the frosting doesn’t melt and run off.

To make the frosting, blend softened cream cheese and vegetable oil until creamy, gradually incorporating the powdered sugar. Add orange juice as needed to achieve your desired consistency. This frosting adds a tangy, sweet finish that complements the flavors of the bread beautifully.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your bread sinks in the middle, it may be due to underbaking or too much moisture in the batter. Ensure the zucchini is well-drained and check your oven’s temperature accuracy. For a variation, try adding dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of sweetness. Interested in more fruity bread options? Explore this apple cinnamon bread for a delicious twist.

If you’re curious about different ways to incorporate zucchini into your baking, take a look at this banana zucchini bread from Luscious Recipes for more inspiration.

Serving and Storing Your Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread

Serving/presentation

Once your carrot apple zucchini bread is frosted, slice and serve it at room temperature for the best flavor. Present the slices on a decorative platter or cake stand to elevate your presentation. This bread makes a beautiful centerpiece for any brunch or gathering, enticing guests with its inviting aroma and vibrant appearance.

For an added touch, sprinkle a few chopped pecans over the frosting or dust lightly with powdered sugar. This enhances the visual appeal and adds a touch of elegance to your presentation. Pair this bread with a refreshing beverage like herbal tea or freshly squeezed orange juice for a delightful experience.

Pairings/storage

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, ensuring it remains moist. For longer storage, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw the bread at room temperature and enjoy its delicious flavors.

This versatile bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, complementing both sweet and savory meals. For another exciting recipe to try, consider this sous vide glazed carrots recipe for a creative side dish option.

Conclusion

This carrot apple zucchini bread recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a standout choice for any occasion. Its combination of spices, fruits, and vegetables creates a moist, flavorful loaf that is both satisfying and nutritious. By following the steps and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and enjoy its comforting taste.

Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this bread is sure to impress family and friends. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the loaf’s earthy flavors. Explore more delightful creations like this lemon zucchini bread for another delicious treat to enjoy.

FAQs – Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread Recipe