Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread Recipe

This Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread is the perfect combination of moist, tender, and flavorful. Packed with wholesome ingredients like fresh carrots, apples, and zucchini, it’s a treat that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious. The flavors blend together beautifully, making each bite a delightful mix of sweetness and spice. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or a special dessert, this bread is sure to be a hit with everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how this Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread balances flavors. The sweetness of the apples and carrots complements the freshness of the zucchini. It’s so moist and tender, thanks to the combination of fruits and vegetables. Plus, this bread is incredibly versatile—I can easily adjust the level of sweetness or spice to suit my tastes. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while indulging in a delicious baked treat. Whether I’m serving it to guests or enjoying a slice with my morning coffee, this bread never disappoints.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 1/2 cup grated carrots

• 1/2 cup grated zucchini, drained

• 1/2 cup grated apple (peeled and cored)

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

3. In another bowl, mix the sugars, eggs, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil until smooth.

4. Add the grated carrots, zucchini, and apple to the wet ingredients, stirring until everything is evenly combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

6. If you’re using nuts, fold them into the batter.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

8. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes one loaf, which typically serves about 8-10 people. The total preparation and baking time is around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Variations

• Add raisins or dried cranberries for an extra burst of sweetness and texture.

• Swap the nuts for seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a nut-free version.

• For a lighter version, you can replace some of the oil with unsweetened applesauce.

• If you love a little extra spice, feel free to add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the mix.

Storage/Reheating

Once the bread has cooled completely, I store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If I want to keep it longer, I freeze it by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, I simply let it thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use other types of flour for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it might make the bread slightly denser. Almond flour could also be used for a gluten-free version, though you may need to adjust the amount.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! This bread actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. I often bake it a day ahead of time and store it at room temperature.

Can I substitute the sugar for something else?

If you prefer a lower-sugar version, you can try using a sugar substitute like Stevia or honey. Just keep in mind that this might slightly alter the texture of the bread.

How do I know when the bread is done?

I usually check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Can I add other fruits or vegetables?

Definitely! You could experiment with adding mashed bananas or pumpkin puree, or even a bit of shredded sweet potato. Just make sure to adjust the moisture level as needed if you use particularly wet ingredients.

Conclusion

This Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread is a deliciously moist and tender treat that combines the best of sweet and savory ingredients. It’s an easy recipe that can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even for dessert. The added fruits and veggies make it a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients while indulging in a flavorful homemade loaf. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with others, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.