Carrot cake cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic carrot cake, perfectly portioned and easy to enjoy. These moist and flavorful treats are ideal for any occasion, from birthdays to afternoon tea. Learn how to make them with this straightforward recipe.
Ingredients for Carrot Cake Cupcakes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups finely grated carrots
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Cream cheese frosting for topping
How to Make Carrot Cake Cupcakes
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold In: Gently fold in grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts until evenly distributed in the batter.
- Fill the Liners: Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cooling: Remove from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frosting: Once cooled, frost with cream cheese frosting. Optionally, garnish with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
About the Main Ingredients
- Carrots: Provide natural sweetness and moisture to the cupcakes.
- Pineapple: Adds extra moisture and a hint of tropical flavor.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg complement the carrots, enhancing the warm, cozy flavor profile.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: The perfect tangy-sweet topping that pairs wonderfully with carrot cake.
Enjoy these carrot cake cupcakes as a delightful homemade treat, perfect for sharing with friends and family!
