Description
These Moist and Easy Carrot Cake Cupcakes are packed with fresh carrots, crushed pineapple, warm spices, and crunchy walnuts, then topped with a rich cream cheese frosting! Perfect for Easter, brunch, or any occasion, this easy recipe will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
- 1 (8.25 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Stir in grated carrots, drained pineapple, and walnuts (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fill cupcake liners about ¾ full with batter.
- Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
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Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and mix.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy and well combined.
Step 3: Frost & Serve
- Pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.
- Garnish with extra walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra moisture, add 2 tablespoons applesauce to the batter.
- Store cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Let the cupcakes sit at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Make-ahead tip: Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American