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Carrot Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Moist carrot cupcakes with cream cheese frosting on a white plate.

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These tender, warmly spiced carrot cupcakes are a classic comfort dessert. Topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, they are perfect for any occasion, from Easter brunch to a simple sweet treat.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two standard 12-cup muffin tins with paper liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until lightly beaten. Add the oil, both sugars, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously for 1 minute until smooth and slightly thickened.
  4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two additions, mixing with a spatula just until no flour streaks remain. Do not overmix.
  5. Gently fold in the grated carrots, drained pineapple (if using), and nuts (if using).
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
  7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. For the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  10. Beat in the vanilla and salt. With the mixer on low, gradually add the sifted powdered sugar.
  11. Increase speed to medium-high and beat for 1-2 minutes until frosting is light and fluffy.
  12. Frost the fully cooled cupcakes using a piping bag or offset spatula.

Notes

Ensure cupcakes are completely cool before frosting. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Store frosted cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

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