Heavenly Gluten-Free Carrot Cake Banana Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Delightful Blend of Two Classics

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:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan with non-stick spray or lining.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, eggs, and maple syrup until well-blended.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the gluten-free flour, sea salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in the shredded carrots and chopped walnuts.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool completely before applying the frosting.

For the frosting:

1. In a bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
3. 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!