Print

Cozy Carrot Cake Cupcakes Recipe with Easy Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

carrot cake cupcakes - featured image
Print Recipe

These cozy carrot cake cupcakes feature a moist, spiced crumb paired with a creamy, lightly sweet maple cream cheese frosting, perfect for autumn gatherings or any cozy occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (220g) finely grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
  • ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to combine evenly.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with granulated sugar and brown sugar. Add vegetable oil and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
  4. Grate the carrots finely using a fine grater.
  5. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients in batches, mixing gently to avoid overworking the batter.
  6. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts if using, distributing evenly.
  7. Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners until about ¾ full.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  10. To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  11. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until creamy.
  12. Stir in maple syrup and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  13. Frost the cooled cupcakes using a piping bag or knife. Optionally, sprinkle chopped nuts or a pinch of cinnamon on top.

Notes

Use freshly grated carrots for best texture. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep cupcakes tender. Ensure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting. Nuts are optional and can be substituted or omitted. For gluten-free, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. For vegan, use flax eggs, coconut oil, and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: carrot cake cupcakes, maple cream cheese frosting, cozy dessert, easy carrot cupcakes, autumn dessert, spiced cupcakes

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/cozy-carrot-cake-cupcakes-recipe-with-easy-maple-cream-cheese-frosting/