This Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread, combining the vibrant colors and natural sweetness of carrots, apples, and zucchini. It’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist & Flavorful – A perfect balance of sweet and spiced flavors.
- Healthy Ingredients – Packed with fruits and vegetables.
- Versatile – Great for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal effort.
- Perfectly Spiced – Hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground cloves
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded zucchini
- 1 cup peeled and diced apple (e.g., Granny Smith, Fuji)
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Glaze/Frosting:
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 to 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 to 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice, as needed
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8×4-inch loaf pans, or line them with parchment paper.
- Place the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs, orange juice, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, whisking until thoroughly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the shredded carrots, squeezed-dry zucchini, diced apples, and chopped pecans (if using).
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the loaves are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the loaves to cool completely before applying the glaze or frosting.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze/Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, using a hand mixer, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
- Drizzle in fresh orange juice, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. If a sweeter glaze is preferred, add the remaining powdered sugar.
- Once the loaves have cooled, drizzle or spread the glaze/frosting over the top.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 24 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 264 kcal per serving
Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds.
- Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free glaze alternative.
- Extra Sweetness: Add raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity boost.
- Muffins: Bake in a muffin tin for 18-22 minutes at 350°F.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast lightly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes! Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady apples work well in this recipe.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, peeling is not necessary. The skin adds extra nutrients and blends well into the batter.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes! Reduce to 1½ cups for a less sweet bread, or use a sugar alternative.
What can I substitute for orange juice?
Apple juice or milk can be used in place of orange juice.
How do I know when the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes! A handful of chocolate chips adds a fun twist to the recipe.
How do I prevent my bread from being too dense?
Avoid overmixing the batter; fold just until combined.
Can I use another type of flour?
You can substitute almond flour or oat flour, but the texture may vary.
Can I skip the glaze?
Absolutely! The bread is delicious on its own or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
What’s the best way to serve this bread?
Enjoy warm with butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey.
Conclusion
Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful treat packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you enjoy it as breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this bread is sure to be a family favorite!
Print
Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 24 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and moist Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread, packed with fresh flavors and perfect for a healthy homemade snack or breakfast treat!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 3¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 2½ tsp baking powder
- ¾ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground cloves
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded zucchini
- 1 cup peeled and diced apple (Granny Smith, Fuji)
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Cream Cheese Glaze/Frosting:
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 to 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 to 3 tbsp fresh orange juice, as needed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8×4-inch loaf pans or line with parchment paper.
- Squeeze excess liquid from shredded zucchini using a clean kitchen towel.
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar. Add eggs, orange juice, and vanilla, mixing well.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients.
- Fold in shredded carrots, zucchini, apples, and pecans (if using).
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely before applying glaze.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze/Frosting:
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
- Drizzle in orange juice until desired consistency is reached.
- Spread or drizzle over cooled bread.
Notes
- Ensure zucchini is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Substitute pecans with walnuts or omit for a nut-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
