Perfect Carrot Cake Cupcakes

Yum! Carrot cake cupcakes are such a delightful treat. Here’s a perfect recipe to make them moist and flavorful:

Ingredients:

For the cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups finely grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

For the cupcakes:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until smooth and well combined.
4. Add the oil and vanilla extract, and mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Gently fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts (if using).
7. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
8. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the cream cheese frosting:

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
3. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating until smooth and fluffy.
4. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
5. Frost the cooled cupcakes with the cream cheese frosting, and optionally, top with extra chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Enjoy these moist, flavorful carrot cake cupcakes with a rich, creamy frosting! They’re perfect for any occasion.