Description

This Carrot Apple Zucchini Bread is moist, flavorful, and brimming with fresh produce in every bite. Sweet carrots, tender zucchini, and juicy apples come together in a warmly spiced batter, while pecans add a satisfying crunch. The fresh orange juice and hint of cloves and nutmeg make each slice bright and aromatic. Topped with a silky cream cheese glaze, it’s indulgent yet wholesome enough for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Bread:

1 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 cups granulated sugar

3 large eggs, room temperature

¼ cup fresh orange juice

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

3¼ cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt

2½ teaspoons baking powder

¾ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cinnamon

Pinch of ground cloves

Pinch of ground nutmeg

2 cups shredded carrots

1 cup shredded zucchini

1 cup diced peeled apple (Granny Smith, Fuji, or similar)

½ cup chopped pecans

For the Cream Cheese Glaze/Frosting:

½ cup cream cheese, softened

¼ cup butter, softened

2–3 cups powdered sugar

1–3 tablespoons orange juice, as needed

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8×4-inch loaf pans, lining with parchment if desired.

Place shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel, gather the edges, and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Set aside.

In another large bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, orange juice, and vanilla, mixing until combined.

Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Add shredded carrots, zucchini, diced apples, and pecans, stirring gently.

Divide the batter between the prepared loaf pans and bake for 55–60 minutes, or until golden brown and springy to the touch.

Cool completely in the pans before frosting.

For the Glaze/Frosting:

Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

Gradually mix in 2 cups powdered sugar.

Add orange juice a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Spread or drizzle over cooled bread.