Deliciously Easy Carrot Cake Cupcakes for Everyone

Name: Deliciously Easy Carrot Cake Cupcakes for Everyone
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 cup sour cream (at room temperature); 3 large eggs (at room temperature); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 2 cups grated carrots (from about 3 large carrots); 1/2 cup pecans; 1/2 cup salted butter (at room temperature); 1 8-ounce package cream cheese (at room temperature); 5 cups powdered sugar; 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

Carrot cake cupcakes offer a delightful blend of moist, fluffy goodness and sweet spice. These treats are perfect for any occasion and are incredibly easy to whip up. Enjoy these family-friendly, kid-approved cupcakes that are sure to make everyone smile!

Table of Contents

Delicious carrot cake cupcakes with cream cheese frosting and pecans.

Delicious carrot cake cupcakes with cream cheese frosting.

Ingredients for Carrot Cake Cupcakes

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp. kosher salt

Wet Ingredients

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup sour cream, at room temperature
3 large eggs, at room temperature
2 cups grated carrots (from about 3 large carrots)

Frosting Ingredients

1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter, at room temperature
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, at room temperature
5 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

Directions for Making Carrot Cake Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Muffin Pans

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two 12-cup muffin pans with 18 cupcake liners to make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, sour cream, and eggs until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and kosher salt until evenly blended.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the grated carrots for that lovely texture.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups

Distribute the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full for a perfect rise.

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes

Bake for 20 to 22 minutes, or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Remember to rotate the pans after 18 minutes for even baking.

Step 7: Prepare the Pecans

Lower the oven temperature to 325°F. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and bake for 7 to 9 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Allow them to cool before chopping coarsely.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

In a stand mixer, beat the butter and cream cheese on medium speed until smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing on low speed, then increase to medium speed and beat until fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 9: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting and sprinkle with chopped pecans for that extra crunch.

Tips for Storing and Serving

Storing Unfrosted Cupcakes

Unfrosted cupcakes can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days.

Storing Frosted Cupcakes

Frosted cupcakes should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to five days. Allow them to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.

Freezing Cupcakes

Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to three months, making them perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests!

Variations on Carrot Cake Cupcakes

Alternative Frosting Options

If you want a change, you can omit the cream cheese frosting or substitute it with a lemon glaze for a refreshing twist.

Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Consider adding raisins or crushed pineapple for added moisture and sweetness. Walnuts can also replace pecans for a different nutty flavor.

FAQs

How do I make healthy carrot cake cupcakes?

You can make healthy carrot cake cupcakes by using whole wheat flour, reducing the sugar, and substituting applesauce for oil. Also, consider adding nuts and dried fruits for extra nutrition.

Can I make these cupcakes vegan?

Yes, you can make these cupcakes vegan by replacing eggs with flax eggs, using a dairy-free yogurt, and substituting the cream cheese frosting with a vegan alternative.

What frosting is best for carrot cake cupcakes?

Cream cheese frosting is traditional and pairs well with carrot cake. However, a light buttercream or a lemon glaze can also be delightful alternatives.

Are these cupcakes low-calorie and low-fat?

These cupcakes are not specifically low-calorie or low-fat due to the sugar and oil. However, you can modify the recipe by using less sugar and healthier fats.

How do I make Greek yogurt frosting for carrot cake?

To make Greek yogurt frosting, mix 1 cup of Greek yogurt with 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Adjust sweetness to taste.

Conclusion

These carrot cake cupcakes are not just delicious; they are also perfect for any celebration. You can easily share them on Pinterest, where recipes like these are loved by many. Enjoy baking and sharing these sweet treats with your loved ones!