This recipe masterfully combines the moist, sweet essence of banana bread with the rich, spiced flavors of carrot cake, all under a luscious layer of cream cheese frosting. Crafted with gluten-free flour and naturally sweetened with maple syrup, this bread is a healthier alternative that still indulges your sweet tooth without compromise.
Why You'll Love This:
The dual delight of banana and carrot not only adds depth to the flavor but also ensures each slice is moist and tender. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg provides a warm spice that's perfectly balanced by the creamy sweetness of the frosting, making this bread irresistibly delicious.
Perfect Occasion:
Perfect for brunches, afternoon tea, or as a special treat during health-conscious gatherings, this carrot cake banana bread brings joy and comfort to any table. It's also a wonderful option for holiday celebrations or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Decoration Tips:
Once frosted, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for a crunchy texture and a professional bakery look. For a seasonal touch, garnish with a light sprinkle of cinnamon or delicate carrot curls that will impress your guests and enhance the cake's visual appeal.
Ingredients for the bread:
- 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 eggs
- 2/3 cup maple syrup
- 2 cups gluten-free flour
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Ingredients for the frosting:
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 1/4 cup softened cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan with non-stick spray or lining.
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, eggs, and maple syrup until well-blended.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the gluten-free flour, sea salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the shredded carrots and chopped walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before applying the frosting.
For the frosting:
- In a bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bread and add any additional decorations as desired.
Enjoy this delightful gluten-free carrot cake banana bread with cream cheese frosting, a treat that is sure to please everyone at your gathering!