Healthy Carrot Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Naturally Sweet Delight

Discover the comforting flavors of this healthy carrot bread, a simple but delicious treat that blends the natural sweetness of carrots and maple syrup. Enhanced with a touch of applesauce and spices, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this bread is both nutritious and indulgent.

Why you'll love it: This carrot bread is moist, flavorful, and perfectly sweetened with maple syrup, making it a healthier alternative to traditional desserts. The combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flours adds a nice texture, while spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger provide a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the carrots wonderfully.

Perfect occasion: Perfect for a cozy afternoon tea, a healthy breakfast option or as a thoughtful homemade gift. It's especially suitable for fall gatherings, but its timeless appeal makes it a great choice for all seasons.

Decorating Tips: For a rustic look, generously spread cream cheese frosting on top of cooled bread. Garnish with a pinch of cinnamon or finely chopped walnuts for added texture. For a more elegant presentation, arrange the icing with decorative designs.

Ingredients for the bread:

• 1 1/2 cup grated carrots (2-3 carrots)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup wheat flour (or additional all-purpose flour)
• 1/4 cup applesauce
• 1/3 cup neutral oil
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 3/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• A pinch of ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the flours, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and ground ginger. Put aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, applesauce, oil, Greek yogurt, maple syrup and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Add the grated carrots.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
7. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let the bread cool completely.
9. For the frosting, using an electric mixer, mix the cream cheese, cinnamon, maple syrup, vanilla extract and ginger until smooth.
10. Once the bread has cooled, spread the glaze on top.

Enjoy this healthy carrot bread, a delicious treat that brings the best of sweet and spice to your table!