Carrot Cake Muffins

Carrot cake muffins are a delicious twist on the classic dessert, offering the same warm spices, moist texture, and rich flavor in a convenient handheld size. Packed with shredded carrots and often enhanced with nuts or raisins, these muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a grab-and-go snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These carrot cake muffins deliver all the comforting flavors of traditional carrot cake without the fuss. They are easy to make, naturally moist from the carrots, and just sweet enough. Perfect for meal prepping or serving at gatherings, they’re also a great way to sneak some veggies into your day. You can make them healthier with simple swaps or even add a dollop of cream cheese frosting for a dessert-like treat.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Salt
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• Vanilla extract
• Shredded carrots
• Crushed pineapple (optional, for added moisture)
• Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• Raisins (optional)

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, sugars, oil, and vanilla until well combined.
4. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients just until mixed.
5. Fold in the shredded carrots, and if using, the pineapple, nuts, and raisins.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling about ¾ full.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 muffins.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Healthier Option: Use whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar by half. Add unsweetened applesauce for extra moisture.
• Frosted Muffins: Top with a swirl of cream cheese frosting for a dessert-like version.
• Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and oil.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Add-ins: Mix in shredded coconut or chocolate chips for added flavor.

storage/reheating

Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
To freeze, wrap muffins individually and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat, microwave for 20–30 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes.

FAQs

How do I make my carrot cake muffins more moist?

Using ingredients like crushed pineapple, applesauce, or even Greek yogurt can add extra moisture.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

Freshly shredded carrots are best as pre-shredded ones tend to be drier and less flavorful.

Can I make these muffins without nuts or raisins?

Yes, you can omit them without affecting the base recipe.

How do I store carrot cake muffins to keep them fresh?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I freeze carrot cake muffins?

Yes, they freeze very well. Just wrap them individually before placing in a freezer bag.

Can I add frosting to these muffins?

Absolutely. A light cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with these muffins.

Can I make mini muffins instead?

Yes, reduce the baking time to about 12–15 minutes for mini muffins.

What can I use instead of oil?

You can substitute melted butter or applesauce for a slightly different texture and flavor.

Are these muffins suitable for kids?

Yes, they’re a great kid-friendly snack and a sneaky way to include veggies.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to bake the muffins right after mixing, but you can prep the dry and wet ingredients separately and combine them when ready to bake.

Conclusion

Carrot cake muffins are a simple yet satisfying treat that brings together the cozy essence of a beloved classic dessert in a compact, versatile form. Whether you enjoy them plain, frosted, or packed with add-ins, they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.

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