Baked Goods > Quick Breads > Carrot Breads

Carrot Date Bread Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped dates

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x5-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in the grated carrots and chopped dates.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 10-12 slices

Nutritional Information (per slice):
Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 3g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Vegetable oil: Canola oil or melted coconut oil
- Granulated sugar: Brown sugar or coconut sugar
- Eggs: Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, whisked together and allowed to sit for 5 minutes)

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture
- Replace the dates with raisins or dried cranberries

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense and dry loaf.
- If the top of the loaf is browning too quickly, cover with foil for the remainder of the baking time.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans.

Pairings:
Serve with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of yogurt or a fruit salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the loaf is too dry, try adding an extra egg or an extra tablespoon of oil.
- If the loaf is too dense, try adding an extra tablespoon of baking powder.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature.

Food History:
Carrot bread has been around since the 19th century, when it was popular in the United States.

Flavor Profiles:
This bread has a sweet and nutty flavor, with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an afternoon snack or for breakfast with a cup of coffee.

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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Spiced, Caramelized