There’s something incredibly comforting about warm banana bread, and this version—enhanced with carrots, spices, and creamy maple frosting—has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen.
The aroma alone draws everyone to the kitchen, and the best part?
It’s packed with nourishing ingredients like Greek yogurt, applesauce, oats, and whole wheat flour.
Perfectly moist and naturally sweetened, this bread feels indulgent without being overly rich.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Incredibly moist and flavorful – Thanks to bananas, carrots, and yogurt
Naturally sweetened – Maple syrup and bananas replace refined sugar
Packed with wholesome ingredients – Whole wheat flour, oats, applesauce
Perfect texture – Soft crumb with a slight chew from oats
Versatile – Enjoy plain, with frosting, or toasted with nut butter
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ripe bananas – For moisture and natural sweetness
Grated carrots – Adds color, texture, and sneaky veggies
Applesauce – Helps keep the bread moist without extra oil
Quick oats & whole wheat flour – For fiber and heartiness
Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative – Makes it creamy and protein-rich
Warming spices – Cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg create cozy flavor
Dairy-free or classic frosting – Optional, but adds a delicious finishing touch
Pro Tips Before You Start
Drain those carrots well – Squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid soggy bread.
Use super ripe bananas – The more speckled, the better for sweetness and softness.
Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until combined to keep the bread tender.
Cover with foil while baking – This prevents the top from browning too quickly.
Cool completely before frosting – Otherwise, the frosting may melt.
How to Make Greek Yogurt Carrot Banana Bread
Step 1: Prep the carrots
Grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor.
Place in a cheesecloth or clean towel and wring out the excess moisture.
Step 2: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350ºF and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Step 3: Mix wet ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, applesauce, mashed bananas, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Add oats and spices
Stir in the quick oats, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Step 5: Fold in the flour
Gently mix in the whole wheat flour, being careful not to overmix the batter.
Step 6: Stir in carrots
Add the grated and drained carrots to the batter and fold until just incorporated.
Step 7: Bake the bread
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, then cover loosely with foil and bake for another 10–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Make the frosting
While the bread bakes, prepare your choice of frosting.
In a small bowl, beat all frosting ingredients until smooth and fluffy.
Chill in the fridge until ready to use.
Step 9: Cool the bread
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Frost and enjoy
Once cooled, spread the frosting on top. Slice and serve, or store for later.
What to Serve It With
A cup of hot coffee or chai latte for breakfast
A dollop of Greek yogurt and chopped walnuts
Drizzle of maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness
Toasted with almond butter for a snack
Variations / Substitutions
Gluten-free version – Use 1:1 gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats
No frosting? – Enjoy plain or sprinkle with powdered sugar
Make it vegan – Swap the egg with a flax egg and use non-dairy yogurt/frosting
Nutty twist – Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter
Coconut vibes – Mix in shredded coconut or top with toasted flakes
Storage & Leftovers
Store frosted bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
To freeze, skip the frosting and wrap the loaf or slices tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat slices in a toaster oven.
FAQs
Can I make this bread without oats?
Yes, you can substitute oats with more flour, but the texture will be less hearty.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Absolutely! Divide the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350ºF for 18–22 minutes.
What if I don’t have applesauce?
Use mashed banana, Greek yogurt, or even canned pumpkin as a substitute.
Do I have to use frosting?
Not at all! The bread is sweet and flavorful on its own, but the frosting adds a special touch.
Can I add raisins or nuts?
Yes! Fold in ½ cup of raisins, chopped walnuts, or pecans for added texture.
How do I know when the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready.
Is this kid-friendly?
Very! It’s mildly sweet, soft, and a great way to sneak in veggies.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Yogurt Carrot Banana Bread is the perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition.
It’s the kind of bake that feels like a treat but nourishes like breakfast.
I love it for weekend brunches, meal prep, or as a cozy afternoon snack.
Whether you top it with frosting or enjoy it plain, it’s bound to win hearts.
Greek Yogurt Carrot Banana Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Grate carrots and squeeze out excess moisture using a towel or cheesecloth.
- Preheat oven to 350ºF and lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk egg, applesauce, mashed bananas, maple syrup, and vanilla.
- Stir in oats, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
- Add flour and gently fold until just combined.
- Mix in the shredded carrots, avoiding overmixing.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/greek-yogurt-carrot-banana-bread/
Notes
- Make sure the carrots are well-drained; too much moisture will make the bread soggy.
- Covering with foil helps prevent over-browning while ensuring the bread cooks through.
- Use overripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.