Description
This Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread that brings together the natural sweetness of carrots, the tartness of apples, and the moisture from zucchini. It’s filled with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, making each bite feel like a cozy hug. The added pecans give it a delightful crunch, while the tangy cream cheese glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
3 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 cinnamon
Pinch of ground cloves
Pinch of ground nutmeg
2 cups shredded carrots
1 cup shredded zucchini
1 cup diced, peeled apple (Granny Smith, Fuji, or whatever you have on hand)
½ cup chopped pecans
For the Cream Cheese Glaze/Frosting:
½ cup cream cheese, softened
¼ cup butter, softened
2–3 cups powdered sugar
1–3 tablespoons orange juice, as needed
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8×4 inch loaf pans, or use baking spray with flour. Line with parchment paper and set aside.
Place the shredded zucchini in a kitchen towel, gather the corners, and twist to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ground cloves, and nutmeg. Set aside.
In another large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, orange juice, and vanilla extract, and whisk until combined.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, then gently fold in the shredded carrots, zucchini, apples, and chopped pecans.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the loaves are golden brown and spring back when gently pressed.
Let the loaves cool completely before adding the cream cheese glaze.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze/Frosting:
In a medium bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter with a hand mixer until smooth.
Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing well. Add orange juice, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired glaze consistency.
Frost the cooled bread loaves and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 390