Name: Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe} Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487391H15M26S
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 cup coconut oil, softened or melted (or vegetable/canola oil); 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup shredded zucchini; 1/2 cup shredded carrot; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; Zest of one orange

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a way to coax out all those cozy, nostalgic flavors of fall into one stunning baked treat, this Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe} absolutely delivers! It’s packed with tender shreds of zucchini and carrot (hello, veggies!), dotted with tangy dried cranberries and toasty walnuts, and sparkled with real orange zest. Every slice is super moist and flavorful, perfumed with cinnamon and nutmeg for just the right warming spice. Whether you bake it up as a hearty loaf or as charming muffins, this bread is as cheerful on a rainy morning as it is at a sunny brunch table—honestly, I’ve never had a crumb left when I bring this to friends!

Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe} Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe has its own important role, from creating that magical soft crumb, to building layers of flavor and pops of color. Trust me, you don’t want to skip any of them—these are the bakery secrets that make this Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe} unforgettable!

All purpose flour: Sets the sturdy, tender base for your loaf or muffins—the foundation that holds all those tasty mix-ins.
Baking powder and baking soda: These leaveners team up to give your bread a soft rise and pillowy texture, ensuring it’s never heavy or dense.
Salt: Just a teaspoon brings out the sweetness and accentuates every spicy note; don’t forget it!
Cinnamon and nutmeg: The dream team for cozy, aromatic spice—in this combo, nutmeg adds warmth and depth.
Coconut oil: Makes your bread ultra-moist, with a hint of tropical flavor; you can swap for canola or vegetable oil if that’s what you have.
Sugar and brown sugar: The mix of both types of sugar creates complex sweetness and a tender, moist crumb.
Eggs: They bind everything together while giving that beautiful golden color and richness.
Vanilla extract: Adds an irresistible undertone of warmth and rounds out the spices.
Shredded zucchini: The secret to moisture and a pleasing, soft crumb—plus, you can totally sneak in some extra veggies!
Shredded carrot: Adds gorgeous orange flecks, a hint of natural sweetness, and classic carrot cake vibes.
Chopped walnuts: Bring a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor contrast (toasted walnuts are even better if you have a moment).
Dried cranberries: For juicy, tangy pops in every bite—they brighten up all the warm flavors.
Orange zest: The citrusy zing that lifts the whole loaf and makes it truly special.

How to Make Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe}

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit—it’s always worth waiting for it to come to full temperature for an even bake. Butter or spray a 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan, making sure to coat the corners. If you’re in a muffin mood, spray your muffin tin or pop in liners for easy clean-up. This little extra attention guarantees your Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe} pops right out, golden and beautiful!

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This step makes sure your spices are lifted through every bite and avoids any pockets of leavening. You’ll catch the scent of cinnamon right away, and trust me, your kitchen will already smell like a bakeshop.

Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a second bowl, beat together the eggs, both sugars, melted coconut oil, and vanilla. This creates a creamy, lush mixture—don’t worry if the coconut oil looks a bit separated, it’ll all come together in the batter. The combo of white and brown sugar brings out the best in both!

Step 4: Combine and Fold in Veggies

Now pour your wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir together gently; the batter will be thick and sticky at first, but that’s perfect. Next, fold in the shredded zucchini and carrot—they add so much beautiful moisture and flavor, and the batter will become a dream to mix. This is where Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe} truly starts to come together! Toss in the walnuts, cranberries, and orange zest, stirring just until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top so it bakes evenly. Slide it into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes (if making muffins, check after 18-22 minutes). Start checking at the early end—every oven is a little different! When a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean or with just a crumb or two, you’re done. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then gently invert and finish cooling on a wire rack. This cooling time is key for flavor and texture, so take a deep breath and savor the aroma wafting through your kitchen.

How to Serve Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe}

Garnishes

Dress up your slices with a spread of softened cream cheese, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of honey for extra sparkle. Chopped candied orange peel or a few extra dried cranberries scattered on top make each piece look bakery-worthy. You’ll love how these little touches bring out all the vibrant flavors in Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe}!

Side Dishes

Pair your bread with a mug of spiced chai or a frothy cappuccino for a cozy breakfast. On a brunch buffet, it’s divine alongside scrambled eggs, yogurt parfaits, or even a sharp aged cheese. A slice of this bread with tart apple slices and nut butter is one of my favorite afternoon snacks.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, slice the loaf and arrange the pieces in a rustic basket lined with a colorful napkin. Or, bake as muffins and pile them high on a cake stand for a stunning centerpiece. If you’re giving Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe} as a gift, wrap in parchment and tie with kitchen twine for a beautiful, homespun presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The flavors get even better on day two as the spices settle in! If your kitchen is humid, you might want to refrigerate, but let it come to room temp before serving for maximum deliciousness.

Freezing

Good news: Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe} freezes beautifully! Slice the loaf, wrap each piece in plastic wrap or parchment, and stash in a freezer bag. Individual slices are easy to grab whenever you crave a treat. It’ll keep its flavor and moisture for up to two months.

Reheating

For the just-baked warmth, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast it gently in a toaster oven. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge or give it an extra 10 seconds in the microwave. It’ll taste freshly made every time!

FAQs

Can I make this Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe} gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a good-quality 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour for the all-purpose flour. Check that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free, and you’re good to go. The crumb will be slightly different, but just as delicious.

Do I need to peel the zucchini and carrots?

Nope! Simply wash and grate them—leaving the peel on adds texture, nutrients, and those beautiful flecks of color. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess liquid if your zucchini is especially wet.

Can I use different add-ins?

Absolutely! Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds, use raisins instead of cranberries, or toss in dark chocolate chips for an extra treat. Part of the fun of Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe} is making it your own.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Insert a wooden toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready. If it’s still gooey, bake in 5-minute increments and check again. Ovens can vary, so don’t worry if your bake time is a little different.

Can I double the Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe}?

Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and divide between two loaf pans. Baking time should be about the same, but keep an eye on color and check with a toothpick to make sure both loaves are perfectly baked.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about baking a loaf of Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe}—the way the kitchen fills with spicy, citrusy aromas, and how every bite feels cozy and joyful. I hope this recipe brings as much happiness to your table as it does to mine, and that you’ll make it again and again, each time adding your own delicious twist!

Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread {Recipe} Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 19 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf or 12 muffins 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Enjoy this delicious and moist Spiced Zucchini Carrot Bread that’s packed with flavor from cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack!

Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan or muffin tin.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla. Mix wet ingredients with dry until just combined.
Add mix-ins: Fold in zucchini, carrots, walnuts, cranberries, and orange zest until evenly distributed.
Bake: Pour batter into pan or muffin cups and bake for 50-60 minutes for a loaf, or 18-22 minutes for muffins, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

You can customize this bread by adding chocolate chips, raisins, or your favorite nuts.
For a healthier version, you can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American