Carrot Cake Banana
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the delightful fusion of flavors in this Carrot Cake Banana recipe. Moist and aromatic, this banana bread is infused with warm spices and shredded carrots, creating a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Perfectly sweetened and topped with a creamy frosting, it makes a wonderful treat for breakfast or dessert that everyone will love.
This Carrot Cake Banana recipe combines the best of both worlds, delivering a unique flavor profile that is sure to please anyone who tries it.
A Unique Twist on Classic Banana Bread
This Carrot Cake Banana recipe represents a delightful combination of two beloved desserts, bringing together the moistness of banana bread with the sweet, spiced goodness of carrot cake. The result is not just a cake, but a sensory experience that fills your kitchen with an enticing aroma while it bakes. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors, making it a versatile option for both breakfast and dessert.
Perfect for those occasions when you want something a little different, this recipe stands out with its unique texture and flavor profile. The carrots add a subtle sweetness and moisture, while the bananas ensure the cake remains tender. It's a simple way to incorporate vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste or enjoyment.
Ideal for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, this Carrot Cake Banana bread is sure to impress. Its unique taste appeals to everyone, from kids to adults, making it a fantastic choice for family gatherings or potlucks. Serve it fresh out of the oven or enjoyed the next day—either way, it's a treat that will leave your guests asking for the recipe.
Adding a creamy frosting elevates this dish, making it a wonderful dessert option. However, if you're looking for a lighter treat, it can easily be enjoyed without frosting. Just slice, serve, and watch as it disappears in a flash.
Tips for Perfecting Your Carrot Cake Banana
To achieve the best results, ensure your bananas are very ripe. The more speckles they have, the sweeter and moister your cake will be. Additionally, shredding the carrots finely allows them to blend seamlessly into the batter, providing a moist texture without large chunks. If you're adding walnuts, consider toasting them lightly beforehand to enhance their flavor and crunch.
Be cautious not to overmix your batter. Mix until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture. Finally, testing for doneness with a toothpick is crucial; remember that every oven is different, and your baking time may vary slightly.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Steps
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt together.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla until well combined.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in shredded carrots and walnuts, if using.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Frost
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Prepare the frosting by beating together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Once the cake is completely cool, frost it generously.
Enjoy Your Cake!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe? Absolutely! While carrots and bananas are a classic combination, feel free to experiment with zucchini or even squash for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are well shredded and excess moisture is removed.
How can I store leftovers? To maintain freshness, store the cooled Carrot Cake Banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For extended storage, consider refrigerating it, where it can last about a week, or freeze it for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions
Pair a slice of your Carrot Cake Banana bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. If you're enjoying it for breakfast, serve it with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a delightful and balanced meal.
For special occasions, consider garnishing the frosted cake with shredded coconut or additional chopped walnuts. This not only enhances visual appeal but also adds extra flavor and texture that complements the cake wonderfully.
Nutritional Benefits
This Carrot Cake Banana bread offers more than just great taste; it also packs a nutritional punch. Bananas are rich in potassium and vitamin C, while carrots are loaded with beta-carotene and fiber. Both ingredients contribute to a hearty snack that can help keep you satiated and energized throughout your day.
Additionally, using whole ingredients like brown sugar and whole nuts can further enhance the nutritional profile. By making this delightful treat, you create a dessert that is indulgent yet nourishing, allowing you to enjoy your favorite flavors guilt-free.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw them completely before mashing.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Carrot Cake Banana
Experience the delightful fusion of flavors in this Carrot Cake Banana recipe. Moist and aromatic, this banana bread is infused with warm spices and shredded carrots, creating a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Perfectly sweetened and topped with a creamy frosting, it makes a wonderful treat for breakfast or dessert that everyone will love.
Created by: Harriet Collins
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt together.
In another large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in shredded carrots and walnuts, if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Prepare the frosting by beating together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Once the cake is completely cool, frost it generously.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 37g