Apricot Carrot Bread *
A moist, flavorful apricot carrot bread with natural sweetness and tender texture, perfect for breakfast or a snack, appealing to fruit lovers and baking enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray an 8 x 4 x 2-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a medium-sized bowl, beat the egg and then mix in the sugar, applesauce, grated carrots, and vegetable oil.
- Add the wet ingredients all at once to the dry ingredients and stir just until moistened; the batter will be thick.
- Fold in the dried apricots.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Wrap the loaf and let it sit overnight before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier alternative, consider reducing the sugar to 1/3 cup and using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose. If you don't have dried apricots, chopped dates or raisins work well too. To enhance the flavor, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg. Ensure the carrots are finely grated for better texture and moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This Apricot Carrot Bread is delicious on its own but can be served with a dollop of cream cheese or butter for added richness. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Bea'S Tomato Soup for a comforting meal. Enjoy it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the toaster or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Carrot Bread * contains roughly 468 calories, with 10g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (123% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the applesauce with something else?
Yes, you can substitute the applesauce with mashed bananas or pureed pumpkin for a different flavor. Both options will maintain the moisture in the bread while adding their unique taste.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This bread freezes well. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based oil. Ensure that the sugar used is not bone char processed to keep it vegan-friendly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).