f you’re anything like us at Market Muni, you’re always looking for a way to give beloved recipes a twist—and this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe is exactly that. Combining the tangy depth of sourdough with the cozy spice of carrot cake, this loaf brings the best of both worlds into one beautiful bake. Inspired by cozy weekends and shared brunches, we developed this bread with heart, using real ingredients and a tried-and-true method that turns every slice into a little piece of comfort.
This isn’t just another sweet bread. It’s a naturally leavened, nutrient-rich, flavor-dense loaf that showcases the charm of sourdough while honoring the nostalgia of carrot cake. Perfect for brunches, breakfasts, or even dessert, this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe is bound to become a go-to for any baker who loves creative flavor fusions.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe for another unique breakfast idea.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
A Sweet and Tangy Sourdough Surprise
This carrot cake sourdough bread recipe blends the hearty structure of sourdough bread with the natural sweetness and spice of a classic carrot cake. The sourdough starter brings depth and a subtle tang that balances beautifully with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Every bite delivers a chewy crust, a soft crumb, and bursts of flavor from raisins, carrots, and nuts.
Unlike a traditional cake that’s ultra-sweet and frosted, this bread stays grounded in real ingredients. It’s slightly sweet without being overpowering, and thanks to the long fermentation process, it’s easier on your digestion. If you’re looking for something more nourishing than standard carrot bread, this loaf checks all the boxes.
What Makes This Carrot Cake Sourdough Bread Unique
First, it’s all about the natural leavening. This bread uses an active sourdough starter instead of commercial yeast, making it not just flavorful but better for gut health too. Second, the texture is out of this world. It’s not crumbly like a quick bread. Instead, it’s structured, sliceable, and perfect for toasting.
The raisins and carrots add moisture, while chopped pecans (or walnuts, if you prefer) provide that satisfying crunch. Maple syrup sweetens the dough naturally, and a light swirl of cinnamon-sugar takes it from everyday loaf to memorable treat.
And best of all? It’s not just for special occasions. With minimal sugar and wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe any day of the week.
Something Different
Why Combine Carrot Cake and Sourdough Bread
The best recipes often come from unexpected pairings, and this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe is a perfect example. Carrot cake is traditionally sweet, spiced, and rich, while sourdough is hearty, rustic, and tangy. By combining the two, you create a loaf that balances sweetness and complexity with a texture that’s both moist and chewy.
The fermentation process of sourdough unlocks flavors you won’t get from regular quick breads. The slight tang of the starter contrasts beautifully with the natural sugars from carrots and maple syrup. As the dough ferments, the spices deepen, and the inclusions—raisins, carrots, pecans—become more flavorful. It’s not just baking. It’s alchemy.
This isn’t a traditional carrot cake, nor is it a typical sourdough. It’s a hybrid loaf that satisfies a craving for something homemade, unique, and truly satisfying. For another unique bake, don’t miss our Croissant Sourdough Bread Recipe.
A Creative Loaf Worth the Effort
We get it—making sourdough bread takes time. But trust us, this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe is worth every stretch, fold, and ferment. It’s the kind of loaf that sparks conversation at brunch or makes a thoughtful gift when you bring it over warm to a neighbor.
Even better, it doesn’t require perfection. In fact, the imperfections—the irregular rise, the uneven swirl of cinnamon sugar—are what make it feel homemade and special. You don’t need to be a sourdough pro to pull this off.
Let’s be honest: store-bought carrot bread just doesn’t compare. Between the natural fermentation, cozy spices, and nourishing ingredients, this loaf delivers comfort and flavor in every slice. If you’ve never made something like this before, now’s the perfect time to bake something completely different and totally delicious.
Perfect For Brunch
A Flavorful Addition to Any Morning Spread
Brunch is all about indulgence, comfort, and sharing—exactly what this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe delivers in every slice. With its perfectly spiced crumb and slightly tangy bite, this loaf steals the spotlight on any brunch table. It’s sweet enough to satisfy but wholesome enough to pair with savory dishes like soft cheeses or scrambled eggs.
Picture it: thick slices toasted and slathered with butter, or a dollop of whipped cream cheese on top with a drizzle of honey. It’s the kind of bread you bring out when company’s coming—or when you want to treat yourself to something cozy on a slow weekend morning.
Its balance of flavor and texture also makes it an excellent alternative to typical brunch fare like cinnamon rolls or banana bread. If you want to surprise your guests with something they’ve never had before, this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe is the way to go.
For another creative brunch option, don’t miss our Cottage Cheese Banana Bread—soft, protein-packed, and just as comforting.
Hosting with Homemade Sourdough Carrot Cake Bread
Hosting brunch at home doesn’t have to be complicated. This loaf bakes beautifully the day before, which means less stress and more time to enjoy your guests. Slice it in advance and offer it on a board with toppings like fresh fruit, nut butters, or a cinnamon maple spread.
Not only does this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe taste amazing, but it also looks stunning. The golden crust, studded with raisins and flecked with bright orange carrot, adds rustic charm to your table setup. It’s an easy way to elevate your brunch game and show your guests that homemade can be both beautiful and delicious.
Want to level up your spread even further? Check out our Pistachio Butter Recipe Guide—perfect for spreading over this cozy loaf.
Ingredients
Carrot Cake Sourdough Bread Recipe Staples
What makes this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe so special is the thoughtful combination of wholesome ingredients that work together to deliver a moist, flavorful loaf. You’ll need just a handful of pantry basics along with a few delicious add-ins to bring this loaf to life.
Here’s what you’ll need for the base dough:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Active Sourdough Starter | 100g (½ cup) |
| Water | 350g (1½ cups) |
| Bread Flour | 500g (3¼ cups) |
| Salt | 8g (1 tsp) |
These four ingredients form the structure of your bread. The sourdough starter brings tang and fermentation, while bread flour gives the loaf strength and a chewy crumb. Water hydrates the dough, and salt balances the sweetness of the add-ins.
Optional Add-ins and Substitutions
Now here’s where the magic happens. What transforms this sourdough base into a full-on carrot cake sourdough bread recipe are the inclusions. They bring sweetness, texture, and that cozy carrot cake flavor we all love:
| Inclusion | Amount |
|---|---|
| Maple Syrup | 30g (2 tbsp) |
| Raisins (soaked & drained) | 100g (½ cup) |
| Chopped Pecans or Walnuts | 65g (½ cup) |
| Shredded Carrots | 110g (1 cup) |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Nutmeg | ½ tsp |
| Sugar | 3 tbsp |
Want to mix things up? Swap pecans for walnuts, or skip the raisins if you’re not a fan. You can also sub maple syrup with honey or agave if needed. If you like a more dessert-style bread, consider tossing in a handful of shredded coconut or chopped dates.
The final sugar-cinnamon-nutmeg mixture is sprinkled right before shaping the dough. It adds a subtle swirl and a bakery-style sweetness without turning the loaf into cake.
For another naturally sweet treat, learn more about our Strawberry Dubai Chocolate Recipe—a great pairing with this bread over brunch.
How To Make Sourdough Carrot Cake Bread
Step-by-Step Instructions with Timelines
Let’s break down exactly how to make this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe from start to finish. While the process might seem long, it’s mostly hands-off and well worth it for the flavor and texture you’ll achieve.
Step 1: Mix the Base Dough
In a large bowl, combine 100g active sourdough starter, 350g water, and 500g bread flour. Mix until just combined. The dough will be shaggy—that’s okay. Cover and let it rest (autolyse) for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Soak the Raisins
While your dough is resting, place the raisins in a small bowl and cover with water. Soaking prevents them from pulling moisture from your dough. Drain before adding.
Step 3: Add Inclusions
Add in 8g salt, 30g maple syrup, the drained 100g raisins, 65g chopped pecans, and 110g shredded carrots. Mix by hand or with a dough hook until mostly combined. Cover and rest 30–60 minutes.
Step 4: Stretch and Fold
Perform 2 sets of stretch and folds at 30- to 60-minute intervals. This strengthens the dough without kneading. After that, cover and let it ferment 4–8 hours, depending on your room temperature.
For another ferment-friendly project, don’t miss our Homemade Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Bar—a fantastic treat while you wait.
Dough Handling and Folding Tips
Once the dough has doubled in size, transfer it to a lightly floured surface and gently stretch it into a rectangle. Combine 3 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and ½ tsp nutmeg in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture over the dough evenly.
Now fold the dough like a letter—into thirds, then thirds again. Flip it over and use a gentle push-pull motion to shape the loaf into a round. Be careful not to tear the surface, especially since the inclusions can make it fragile.
If shaping seems intimidating or your dough feels too wet, place it in a standard loaf pan instead. Dust the top with brown rice flour, then proof for 30–90 minutes at room temperature while your Dutch oven preheats at 450°F.
Finally, place the dough onto parchment paper, score the top, and gently lower it into the hot Dutch oven. Bake covered at 450°F for 20 minutes, then uncovered at 425°F for another 20 minutes. The crust should be golden brown and crisp, with an internal temp of at least 190°F.
Once it’s done, cool on a wire rack for at least an hour—if you can wait that long.
Print
Carrot Cake Sourdough Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours
- Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Carrot Cake Sourdough Bread Recipe combines the tang of sourdough with the cozy sweetness of spiced carrot cake. With wholesome ingredients like shredded carrots, raisins, and maple syrup, this rustic loaf is perfect for brunch, snacks, or gifting.
Ingredients
- 100g active sourdough starter (½ cup)
- 350g water (1½ cups)
- 500g bread flour (3¼ cups)
- 8g salt (1 tsp)
- 30g maple syrup (2 tbsp)
- 100g raisins (½ cup, soaked and drained)
- 65g chopped pecans or walnuts (½ cup)
- 110g shredded carrots (1 cup)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- 3 tbsp sugar
Instructions
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine sourdough starter, water, and flour. Mix until just combined. Cover and rest for 30 minutes.
- Soak Raisins: While the dough rests, soak raisins in water for 15–20 minutes. Drain before using.
- Add Inclusions: Add salt, maple syrup, pecans, raisins, and shredded carrots to the dough. Mix until well incorporated. Cover and rest for another 30–60 minutes.
- Stretch and Fold: Perform 2 sets of stretch and folds, 30–60 minutes apart.
- Bulk Fermentation: Let the dough rise at room temperature for 4–8 hours until doubled in size.
- Prepare Swirl: Mix sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Lightly flour your surface, stretch the dough into a rectangle, and sprinkle the mixture over it. Fold and shape gently.
- Final Proof: Place dough in a banneton or loaf pan. Proof for 30–90 minutes at room temp while preheating a Dutch oven to 450°F.
- Bake: Flip dough onto parchment, score, and bake covered at 450°F for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake at 425°F for 20 more minutes. Cool before slicing.
Notes
To avoid a gummy texture, ensure your loaf is fully cooled before slicing. The swirl step is optional but adds flavor and a touch of sweetness. For easier handling, shape the dough in a loaf pan instead of free-forming.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
How To Serve Sourdough Carrot Cake Bread
Serving Ideas for Breakfast or Dessert
One of the most delightful things about this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe is how versatile it is when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it first thing in the morning, as an afternoon snack, or even as a light dessert.
For a cozy breakfast, try toasting a slice and adding a smear of cream cheese or almond butter. The nutty richness pairs perfectly with the sweet spice of the loaf. Feeling fancy? Add a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of orange marmalade for a citrusy twist.
You can also serve it as a dessert—yes, seriously. Slightly warm it up, then top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re hosting, cut it into thick slices, toast lightly, and serve on a brunch board with fruit, nuts, and spreads.
No matter how you serve it, this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe brings both comfort and flavor to the table. It’s the kind of bread people ask about after the first bite.
Want to make your next brunch board extra special? Don’t miss our Pistachio Butter Recipe Guide—it spreads beautifully on this loaf.
Pairings: From Coffee to Cream Cheese
This bread is right at home with a fresh cup of coffee or hot tea. The slight tang of sourdough combined with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg makes it a natural match for a smooth latte or even a spiced chai.
For something savory, serve it alongside a bowl of Greek yogurt or a mild goat cheese. It also plays well with soft spreads like mascarpone, cinnamon butter, or even pumpkin cream cheese in fall.
If you’re serving a crowd, try turning this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe into open-faced “breakfast toast.” Think toppings like ricotta, crushed walnuts, fresh berries, or sliced banana. It’s a gorgeous and tasty way to elevate the everyday.
How to Store + Freeze
Keeping It Fresh: Storage Tips
After all the time and love you put into making this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe, the last thing you want is for it to dry out or spoil too quickly. Good news—this loaf stores beautifully when handled the right way.
Once completely cooled, wrap the bread in beeswax wrap, parchment, or a clean kitchen towel. Avoid sealing it in plastic right away, as this can trap moisture and soften the crust. For short-term storage (1 to 2 days), keep it at room temperature in a bread box or on your counter.
If your home is humid, consider placing the wrapped loaf in a paper bag to help it breathe while still retaining some moisture. Resist the temptation to pre-slice—it stays fresher when kept whole.
This carrot cake sourdough bread recipe contains natural sugars and inclusions like raisins and carrots, which means it will spoil more quickly than standard sourdough. If you don’t plan to eat it within 3 days, move to the freezer.
Freezing and Reheating Your Bread the Right Way
To freeze the loaf, wait until it’s fully cooled. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil, or seal it in a freezer-safe bag. For convenience, you can slice the bread before freezing and place parchment between slices. That way, you can grab a piece or two without defrosting the entire loaf.
Frozen bread stays fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, let the slices thaw at room temp, or toast them straight from the freezer for a quick, warm bite.
To revive the full loaf, unwrap it and place it in a 325°F oven for about 10–15 minutes. The warmth reactivates the cinnamon and nutmeg aromas, making it taste like it just came out of the oven.
For more ways to enjoy baked goods long after baking day, don’t miss our Croissant Sourdough Bread Recipe—another freezer-friendly option with buttery layers.
Whether you’re prepping ahead or savoring leftovers, this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe stores and freezes like a dream—making it ideal for meal prep, gifting, or everyday enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this be made into muffins?
Yes, this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe can be adapted into muffins! Simply portion the final proofed dough into well-greased or lined muffin tins instead of shaping a full loaf. Bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The muffins will have a crusty exterior and a soft, chewy inside—just like mini sourdough treats.
Can this be made without sourdough?
If you don’t have a sourdough starter, you can try adapting the recipe by using instant yeast (about 1½ teaspoons) and adjusting the hydration slightly. However, you’ll miss out on the signature tang and depth of flavor that make this carrot cake sourdough bread recipe so unique. If you’re curious, consider trying a simpler version like our Cottage Cheese Banana Bread instead, which doesn’t require fermentation.
Does it need to be refrigerated?
Not immediately. This bread is best stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, tightly wrapped. Beyond that, you can refrigerate it to extend freshness by another 2–3 days. Just note that refrigeration may slightly dry out the loaf. For the best experience, freeze leftover slices instead and toast them as needed. That way, your carrot cake sourdough bread recipe tastes bakery-fresh every time.
Conclusion: A Cozy Recipe That Brings Joy to Every Slice
There’s something comforting and nostalgic about combining the earthy tang of sourdough with the sweet, spiced flavor of carrot cake. This carrot cake sourdough bread recipe isn’t just another loaf—it’s a beautiful blend of two timeless favorites. With a chewy crust, soft crumb, and warm cinnamon aroma, this bread delivers flavor and texture that’s both familiar and exciting.
Whether you’re baking for brunch, freezing slices for later, or gifting a homemade loaf to someone you love, this recipe fits the moment. It’s flexible, freezer-friendly, and full of wholesome ingredients that feel indulgent without being over-the-top.
Ready to try more recipes that bring fun twists to traditional baking? Looking for inspiration? Try our Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe or check out our Homemade Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Bar for something sweet and bold.
Happy baking, and don’t forget to tag @MarketMuni with your creations—we can’t wait to see how your loaves turn out!
