Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Carrot Cake Muffins combine the comforting flavors of classic carrot cake with the convenience of a handheld muffin. They are moist, warmly spiced, and lightly sweet, making them suitable for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. I enjoy this recipe because it feels indulgent without being overly heavy, and it uses simple ingredients that are easy to keep on hand. The grated carrots add natural sweetness and moisture, while the spices create that familiar, cozy carrot cake flavor. I have tested this recipe for both busy mornings and relaxed afternoons, and it consistently delivers soft, tender muffins with a balanced texture. These muffins are also easy to customize, which makes them ideal for families with different preferences. If you are looking for a dependable baked good that feels homemade and comforting, these Carrot Cake Muffins are an excellent choice.
Carrot Cake Muffins: A Moist, Spiced Treat Perfect for Any Time of Day
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Moist and warmly spiced carrot cake muffins packed with shredded carrots and finished with a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or snacks.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until combined.
- Fold in grated carrots, nuts, and raisins if using.
- Divide the batter evenly among muffin cups, filling about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins tender.
- For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of milk if needed.
- Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Carrots
Freshly grated carrots are the heart of this recipe. They provide natural sweetness, moisture, and structure to the muffins without making them dense.
All-Purpose Flour
Flour forms the base of the batter and gives the muffins their soft but sturdy crumb.
Granulated Sugar
Sugar sweetens the muffins and helps achieve a tender texture. It balances the spices and carrots well.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle caramel-like depth that enhances the overall flavor.
Eggs
Eggs bind the ingredients together and contribute richness and structure.
Vegetable Oil
Oil keeps the muffins moist for days. I prefer oil over butter here because it produces a softer texture.
Baking Powder
Baking powder helps the muffins rise evenly, giving them a light, fluffy interior.
Baking Soda
Baking soda reacts with the acidic ingredients and supports proper leavening.
Ground Cinnamon
Cinnamon provides warmth and is essential to the classic carrot cake flavor.
Ground Nutmeg
Nutmeg adds subtle spice and depth without overpowering the muffins.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla rounds out the flavors and adds gentle sweetness.
Optional Add-Ins
Chopped nuts or raisins can be added for extra texture and flavor.
Directions
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C and lining a muffin tin with paper liners. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly combined.
In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the grated carrots until well incorporated. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the muffins dense.
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 12 muffins. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with a baking time of 18 to 22 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. They can be gently warmed in the oven or microwave before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Carrot Cake Muffins are easy to adapt. For added richness, you can swirl a small amount of cream cheese mixture into the batter before baking. If you prefer a healthier option, part of the flour can be replaced with whole wheat flour, though the texture will be slightly denser.
I have also added crushed pineapple for extra moisture and sweetness, which works very well. Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch, while raisins provide bursts of sweetness. Spices such as ginger or cloves can be added in small amounts for a more complex flavor profile. These variations allow you to tailor the muffins to your taste while keeping their classic appeal.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
These muffins are vegetarian and can be adapted for dairy-free diets, as they contain no butter or milk. They provide carbohydrates for energy and small amounts of fiber from the carrots. Enjoy them as part of a balanced diet.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Finely grate the carrots for better texture.
Avoid overmixing to keep muffins tender.
Use oil for lasting moisture.
Cool slightly before serving for best structure.
FAQs
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes, they keep well for several days when stored properly.
Can I freeze Carrot Cake Muffins?
Yes, they freeze well for up to two months.
Can I use pre-shredded carrots?
Freshly grated carrots are recommended for better moisture.
How do I know when the muffins are done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, the sugar can be slightly reduced without affecting structure.
Are these muffins suitable for children?
Yes, they are mild, soft, and family-friendly.
Can I add cream cheese frosting?
Yes, a light frosting can be added once the muffins are fully cooled.
What oil works best?
Neutral oils such as vegetable or sunflower oil work well.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a suitable gluten-free flour blend.
Why are my muffins dense?
Overmixing or using too much flour can cause density.
Conclusion
Carrot Cake Muffins are a timeless, comforting bake that delivers classic flavor in a convenient form. Moist, gently spiced, and easy to customize, they are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or sharing with family and friends. Once you try them, they are sure to become a regular addition to your baking routine.
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