Okay, my flavor fanatics, buckle up! I’m about to drop a recipe that’s been rocking my kitchen for weeks. We’re talking Carrot Cake Banana Bread, and it’s not your grandma’s snooze-fest. This baby is packed with the kind of bold flavors that’ll make you wanna salsa dance in your apron!
I went through a LOT of test batches to get this Carrot Cake Banana Bread just right. Too dry? Nope. Not enough spice? Absolutely not. The breakthrough came when I swapped regular oil for browned butter—talk about a game-changer. That’s when I knew this Carrot Cake Banana Bread was ready to explode onto your tastebuds.
This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a flavor revolution. And as you all know, here at Cuba Queen, we don’t do boring. This Carrot Cake Banana Bread recipe is all about big, unapologetic flavors that turn every bite into a celebration. Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Cuban culinary fiesta! Let’s get baking, shall we?
INGREDIENTS You Need for This:
This Carrot Cake Banana Bread ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! We’re talking flavor powerhouses that combine to create something truly special. Get ready for baking magic!

- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The riper, the better! Those brown spots are flavor gold for your Carrot Cake Banana Bread.
- 1 cup grated carrots: Freshly grated is a MUST. None of that pre-shredded stuff, okay?
- ½ cup browned butter, cooled: This is the secret weapon! Browned butter adds a nutty depth that’ll blow your mind in this Carrot Cake Banana Bread.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: For that perfect touch of sweetness.
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar: Adds a molasses-y richness that complements the spices in our Carrot Cake Banana Bread.
- 2 large eggs: Room temperature is key for even mixing.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Don’t skimp on the good stuff!
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Spooned and leveled, people! We don’t want a dry Carrot Cake Banana Bread.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: For that perfect rise.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: The spice that ties it all together.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, cozy note.
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger: Because a little zing never hurt anyone.
- Pinch of ground cloves: A little goes a LONG way!
- ½ teaspoon salt: To balance the sweetness and enhance the other flavors in this Carrot Cake Banana Bread.
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans: For some added crunch and texture.
The secret to an epic Carrot Cake Banana Bread is using browned butter instead of regular oil. It adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Find the best spices for this Carrot Cake Banana Bread recipe at your local spice shop for the freshest, most potent flavors.
Splurge on high-quality vanilla extract for this Carrot Cake Banana Bread – trust me, it makes a difference! You can store your spices in airtight containers in a cool, dark place to keep them fresh for longer.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Alright, flavor adventurers, let’s get down to business! Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be sinking your teeth into a slice of Carrot Cake Banana Bread heaven in no time. Don’t stress – your Carrot Cake Banana Bread is going to be incredible!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This prevents sticking and ensures a clean release of your beautiful Carrot Cake Banana Bread.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Make sure there are no big chunks left, unless you like that texture.
- Add the grated carrots, browned butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined. Pro tip for Carrot Cake Banana Bread perfection: Make sure the browned butter has cooled slightly before adding it, so it doesn’t cook the eggs!
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the Carrot Cake Banana Bread.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough Carrot Cake Banana Bread.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans, if using. I love the added crunch they provide, but it’s totally optional.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. In my kitchen, this Carrot Cake Banana Bread takes exactly 62 minutes. Your Carrot Cake Banana Bread should look golden brown and smell absolutely divine!
- Let the Carrot Cake Banana Bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bottom from getting soggy. While your Carrot Cake Banana Bread is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold!
Here’s where most people mess up their Carrot Cake Banana Bread – they don’t let it cool completely before slicing. Trust me, patience is key!
PRESENTATION:
Time to show off your Carrot Cake Banana Bread skills! Presentation is everything, mis amigos. Here’s how to make your creation look as good as it tastes. People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Carrot Cake Banana Bread at brunch!
Slice your Carrot Cake Banana Bread into thick, generous pieces. Arrange them artfully on a platter or cutting board. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance. This Carrot Cake Banana Bread absolutely slays at dinner parties!
For a truly decadent experience, top each slice with a dollop of cream cheese frosting. Or try serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Bold pairing suggestions: Serve this Carrot Cake Banana Bread with a strong cup of Cuban coffee. The bitterness of the coffee perfectly balances the sweetness of the bread. Add a side of fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.
Perfect occasions: This Carrot Cake Banana Bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a midday snack. It’s also a great gift for friends and neighbors.
Instagram-worthy plating techniques: Drizzle the cream cheese frosting in a zigzag pattern for a visually appealing look. Add a few chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Leftover transformations: Turn leftover Carrot Cake Banana Bread into French toast. Cube it and use it as a base for a bread pudding.
Seasonal variations: In the fall, add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to the batter. In the spring, incorporate some chopped dried apricots or dried cranberries.
FAQs:
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about my Carrot Cake Banana Bread recipe. I know you can do this!
Can I make this Carrot Cake Banana Bread healthier?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour. You can also reduce the amount of sugar slightly. For a healthier Carrot Cake Banana Bread, consider using unsweetened applesauce in place of some of the oil.
What if I don’t have browned butter for my Carrot Cake Banana Bread?
While browned butter adds a unique flavor, you can substitute melted coconut oil or regular melted butter. The flavor won’t be quite the same, but it will still be delicious.
How do I know when my Carrot Cake Banana Bread is perfectly done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. The top should be golden brown and spring back slightly when touched.
Can I add raisins or chocolate chips to this Carrot Cake Banana Bread?
Of course! Feel free to customize this Carrot Cake Banana Bread to your liking. Raisins, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or even chopped pineapple would be delicious additions.
Can I freeze this Carrot Cake Banana Bread?
Yes! Wrap the cooled Carrot Cake Banana Bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
My Carrot Cake Banana Bread is too dry. What did I do wrong?
You may have overmixed the batter or used too much flour. Make sure to measure the flour correctly and mix until just combined.
Can I make this Carrot Cake Banana Bread into muffins?
Definitely! Reduce the baking time to about 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I make this into a spice cake banana bread?
Yes, you can totally amp up the spices for a spice cake banana bread twist! Try adding an extra 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, a pinch more cloves, and maybe even a dash of cardamom for an extra layer of warm, comforting flavor.
CONCLUSION:
This Carrot Cake Banana Bread represents everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, simple techniques, and unapologetic deliciousness. It’s a flavor explosion that will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite!
This Carrot Cake Banana Bread reminds me of another flavor explosion, my Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes. If this recipe rocks your world, you NEED to try my Maple Banana Bread. And for more bold flavor adventures, check out my Banana Bread.

My Carrot Cake Banana Bread Power Tips:
- Don’t skip the browned butter! It’s the key to unlocking the ultimate flavor.
- Use ripe bananas. They add moisture and sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the batter. It will result in a tough Carrot Cake Banana Bread.
My other Carrot Cake Banana Bread variations:
- Chocolate Chip Carrot Cake Banana Bread: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter.
- Walnut Carrot Cake Banana Bread: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts to the batter.
- Coconut Carrot Cake Banana Bread: Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the batter.
The cream cheese frosting version gets the biggest reactions, hands down.
I have complete confidence in you, mis amigos! Go forth and bake this Carrot Cake Banana Bread with passion and flair! Make this Carrot Cake Banana Bread your signature dish and create memories that will last a lifetime. I know you’re going to nail it! Share your results with me – I can’t wait to see your creations!
Carrot Cake Banana Bread
This Carrot Cake Banana Bread combines the best of both worlds! Moist banana bread is studded with the flavors and textures of carrot cake for a delicious and easy treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10-12 slices)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 medium)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the mashed bananas, oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding a cream cheese frosting once the bread is completely cool.

