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Carrot Cake Cupcakes

Moist carrot cake cupcakes with creamy frosting on a rustic wooden table.

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These moist and tender carrot cake cupcakes are perfectly spiced and topped with a cloud of cream cheese frosting. They are a versatile, make-ahead treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups finely grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each. Stir in vanilla.
  4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Fold gently with a spatula until just combined.
  5. Fold in the grated carrots, drained pineapple (if using), and chopped nuts.
  6. Divide batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
  7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. For the frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
  10. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy.
  11. Frost the completely cooled cupcakes.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter. Ensure cupcakes are completely cool before frosting. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Cupcakes can be frozen, frosted or unfrosted.

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