There is something truly magical about a Carrot Banana Walnut Loaf with Nutella Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that brings a perfect balance of moist, warmly spiced cake combined with a rich and dreamy frosting. This loaf is bursting with natural sweetness from ripe bananas and freshly grated carrots, providing a wonderful texture from crunchy walnuts and shredded coconut. The star of the show? That indulgently smooth Nutella cream cheese frosting swirling on top, offering a luscious, nutty finish you won’t want to stop eating. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug, ideal for sharing with friends or brightening up your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A bunch of fresh carrots with green leafy tops is laid out on a white marbled surface. The carrots are medium to long in size, with a bright orange color and slightly rough texture. Their leafy green tops spread out on one side, showing layers of feathery leaves in different shades of green. The carrots slightly overlap each other, creating a natural arrangement that fans out. The whole scene looks fresh and simple, focusing on the natural colors and shapes of the carrots. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This loaf comes together using simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in creating its delicious texture, flavor, and appearance. From the warm spices that gently tickle your palate to the rich browned butter that deepens the overall taste, every component is essential.

All-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure and tenderness to the loaf.
Baking soda: Helps the loaf rise to a perfect, fluffy texture.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice to celebrate the carrot and banana flavors.
Freshly ground nutmeg: Provides a subtle yet fragrant depth to the spice profile.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors beautifully.
Unsalted browned butter: Delivers a rich, nutty aroma and moist crumb.
Brown sugar: Adds caramel undertones and moisture.
Large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the loaf’s perfect rise.
Vanilla bean paste: Lends an intense vanilla flavor that complements the bananas.
Ripe bananas: Naturally sweet and add extra moisture and smoothness.
Canned coconut milk: Brings creaminess and a subtle tropical note.
Freshly grated carrots: Keeps the loaf wonderfully moist and adds vibrant color.
Shredded sweetened coconut: Adds chewy texture and a sweet tropical touch.
Cream cheese: The frosting base that makes everything heavenly smooth and tangy.
Unsalted butter for frosting: Creates a luscious, spreadable texture.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and perfects the frosting’s consistency.
Vanilla extract: Elevates the frosting’s flavor with subtle floral notes.
Nutella: The star swirl that delivers a rich hazelnut-chocolate decadence.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Carrot Banana Walnut Loaf with Nutella Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First, preheat your oven to 325 degrees F and generously spray a 9×5 loaf pan with nonstick spray. A well-greased pan helps the loaf bake evenly and makes removal effortless.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, freshly ground nutmeg, and salt. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout your loaf for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the browned butter with the brown sugar until smooth and somewhat fluffy. Add the lightly beaten eggs and vanilla bean paste, mixing until all is well combined. Then fold in the mashed bananas and coconut milk, which add a velvety moisture and subtle tropical flavor.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; over-mixing will make the loaf tough. Carefully stir in the freshly grated carrots and shredded sweetened coconut. These add a wonderful texture, natural sweetness, and a gorgeous orange hue to your batter.

Step 5: Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60 to 65 minutes until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the loaf to cool for 15 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely — frosting will adhere better to a fully cooled loaf.

Step 6: Make the Nutella Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy. Slowly add powdered sugar on low speed until combined, then mix in vanilla extract. Increase speed to medium-high and beat for 1 to 2 minutes until the frosting becomes smooth and fluffy. Spread it generously over the cooled loaf, then swirl Nutella on top with a knife or spoon for a beautiful, rich finish.

How to Serve Carrot Banana Walnut Loaf with Nutella Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A rectangular carrot cake with one slice cut and placed in front of it sits on a wooden cutting board. The cake has a light brown color with visible bits of orange carrot inside. The top is covered with a thick layer of white cream cheese frosting swirled with chocolate, creating a marbled brown and white pattern. The background is a white marbled surface with a white cloth underneath the board, and three whole carrots are placed to the top left side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped walnuts or toasted coconut flakes over the frosting for a crunchy texture contrast and added visual appeal. You can even add a light dusting of cinnamon on top to elevate the warm spice vibe.

Side Dishes

This loaf is perfect paired with a cup of strong coffee or spiced chai tea, enhancing those warm flavors in each bite. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice thickly and toast lightly for a decadent breakfast treat, topped with extra Nutella or almond butter. Or, serve small cubes on dessert platters alongside berry compote and a sprinkle of sea salt for sophisticated entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Carrot Banana Walnut Loaf with Nutella Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop and deepen after a day, making it even more delicious on day two or three.

Freezing

This loaf freezes beautifully! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to protect against freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge and slightly warm before serving to enjoy that freshly baked taste.

Reheating

Gently warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat or the frosting may become too soft. Warmed slices release inviting aromas and soften the texture for an irresistible treat.

FAQs

Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work wonderfully in this loaf, offering their own unique crunch and flavor that complements the carrot and banana beautifully.

Is it possible to make this loaf dairy-free?

Yes. Use a dairy-free butter substitute for both the loaf and frosting, and replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative made from cashews or coconut. The texture and flavor will still be deliciously satisfying.

Can I use regular milk instead of coconut milk?

You can, but coconut milk adds a lovely creaminess and subtle tropical note that enhances the overall flavor. If substituting, whole milk or a nut milk like almond milk works best.

How long does the frosting stay fresh?

The Nutella cream cheese frosting is best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days when stored in the refrigerator, as it maintains its smooth texture and vibrant flavor during that time.

Can I make mini loaves or muffins?

Definitely! Adjust baking times accordingly — mini loaves or muffins typically bake in 20 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, testing doneness with a toothpick for perfect results.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a heartfelt, comforting dessert with a distinctive twist, the Carrot Banana Walnut Loaf with Nutella Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a total showstopper. The combination of flavors and textures will have everyone asking for seconds, and it’s honestly so simple to make. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and make it a new favorite in your baking repertoire—you won’t regret it!

Carrot Banana Walnut Loaf with Nutella Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need