Spicy Carrot Bread
Spicy Carrot Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf combining warm cinnamon, sweet carrots, and optional nuts, perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert for those craving a spicy treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease two 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Beat the eggs and mix with the sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla until well blended.
- Add the shredded carrots and mix until all ingredients are moistened.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Carrot Bread makes a delightful breakfast or snack. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese for added richness. It pairs beautifully with Jane's Fudge for a sweet treat or can be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea. For a festive touch, try adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover Spicy Carrot Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices in an airtight container for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the toaster or microwave briefly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Carrot Bread contains roughly 762 calories, with 11g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (216% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and potassium (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 924mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
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 use fresh carrots instead of shredded carrots?
Yes, fresh carrots work well; just make sure to shred them finely for even distribution in the batter. You can also use pre-shredded carrots available in stores. However, avoid using canned carrots as they may add excess moisture and affect the texture.
What can I substitute for evaporated milk?
You can replace evaporated milk with an equal amount of whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of heavy cream for a similar richness. Alternatively, for a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or almond milk, keeping in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking periodically to avoid overbaking.
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).