Who says you need to bake a layered cake for Easter? Opt for this easy, delicious carrot bread instead! Moist, bursting with dried cranberries and chopped pecans, and topped with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting, this carrot bread is a delightful twist to your Easter celebrations. Packed with flavors and textures, it's adorned with optional marzipan carrots for an extra festive touch. Grab the recipe below and have a wonderful week filled with tasty treats!
Why You'll Love This: This carrot bread brings the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and everything nice to your Easter table. It's a hassle-free recipe that doesn't compromise on taste or texture, making it ideal for those who prefer simplicity without missing out on the festive spirit. The combination of juicy carrots, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans, all under a smooth and creamy frosting, will leave you and your guests coming back for more. Plus, it's a beautiful centerpiece that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Perfect Occasion: Not just for Easter, this carrot bread is a versatile treat that can grace your table at brunches, afternoon tea, or as a comforting dessert. It's also a thoughtful gift for friends and family, embodying the warmth and joy of the holiday season. Whether you're celebrating with a big group or enjoying a quiet holiday at home, this carrot bread will add a touch of sweetness to any occasion.
Decoration Tips: For an extra festive look, top your carrot bread with homemade or store-bought marzipan carrots. A sprinkle of orange zest over the frosting adds a pop of color and a burst of citrus aroma. Serving it on a decorative cake stand or a charming plate enhances its appeal, making it a delightful sight on your Easter table.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 140 ml vegetable oil
- 2 large, room-temperature eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 300 g grated carrots
- 100 g dried cranberries
- 70 g chopped pecans
- 180 g flour
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 200 g cream cheese
- 100 ml heavy cream (35% fat)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 50 g powdered sugar
- Zest of 1 orange
- Marzipan carrots for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C. Grease a loaf pan with butter and line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. In another large bowl, whisk together eggs, oil, sugar, grated carrots, and orange zest. Stir in the flour mixture with a spatula until just combined. Fold in cranberries and chopped nuts.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, heavy cream, and orange zest with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Spread the frosting over the cooled bread.
- Decorate with marzipan carrots if desired.
This Carrot Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is an easy yet fabulous way to add a touch of homemade charm to your Easter festivities. Enjoy the moist, flavorful bread alongside your loved ones, and have a splendid holiday!