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Sticky Carrot, Ginger & Date Loaf With Citrus Glaze
DessertsMedium

Sticky Carrot, Ginger & Date Loaf With Citrus Glaze

Recipe by lounarecipes

From the Blog Author

This Sticky Carrot, Ginger & Date Loaf With Citrus Glaze is one of my favorites because the smell of fresh carrots and a splash of orange zest instantly pulls me back to the backyard porch where I first tried my hand at baking. I love how the bright citrus glaze slaps a sweet‑tart finish on an already hearty loaf. What makes this loaf special is the combination of tender, sweet carrots and warm, spicy ginger that form the base of the batter. Adding chopped dates gives a subtle, natural sweetness and chewy texture, while the citrus glaze brightens every slice and ties all the flavors together. The result is a moist loaf that crackles when you bite into it, with a finish that’s both comforting and refreshing. A little tip from my experience: let the citrus glaze cool for a minute before brushing it on, so it doesn’t dissolve the caramelized sugar on the loaf’s surface and it will set into a glossy, golden coating. If you try this loaf, I'd love to hear about it—email us with your thoughts or a quick photo and I’ll drop you a note right back.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
50 minutes
Servings
10
Difficulty
Medium

Ingredients

  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Directions

1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf tin with parchment paper.

2

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, and salt.

3

In a large bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

4

Fold the grated carrots and chopped dates into the wet ingredients.

5

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.

6

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7

For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and lemon zest until smooth.

8

Drizzle the glaze over the warm loaf before serving.

Recommended Kitchen Tools

1
DEIME Air Fryer 3 Qt, Small Airfryer Digital Space Saving Compact, Bake, Reheat, Roasts for Quick Easy Meals, Mini Compact & Quiet, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket (Black)
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2
Air Fryer Oven Large 20 QT, 10-in-1 Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo with Window for Family, Airfryer Oven with Rotisserie, 3 Dehydrating Racks
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3
Ninja | Air Fryer | 6.5 QT Pro XL Capacity fits 9lbs of Wings | 6-in-1 Max Crisp, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat & Dehydrate | Nonstick Basket, Crisper Plate & Recipe Guide | Grey | AF181
• 6.5 QT Pro XL Capacity lets you bake cookies or cake layers for the whole party in one go. • 6-in-1 Max Crisp mixes air fry, bake, and dehydrate, so fewer appliances and more baking freedom. • Nonstick Basket & Crisper Plate releases desserts cleanly, cutting cleanup time. • Recipe Guide gives fool‑proof dessert tips for first‑time bakers. Why We Love It: We love the big capacity for crowd‑sized treats. And Max Crisp gives every cookie a perfect edge.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I store the Sticky Carrot, Ginger & Date Loaf, and what is the best way to keep it fresh?

The loaf can be stored tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individual slices well and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I substitute the dates in this recipe, and if so, what is a good alternative?

Yes, you can substitute the dates with an equal amount of dried figs or raisins for a similar texture and sweetness. Ensure any dried fruit you use is finely chopped before incorporating it into the batter.

My citrus glaze seems too thin; how can I thicken it for a better drizzle consistency?

If the glaze is too thin, gradually whisk in a little more powdered sugar, about one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can let it sit for a few minutes as it will naturally thicken slightly as it cools.