Carrot cake cupcakes recipe are a delightful treat made by combining shredded carrots, warm spices, and a soft, moist batter baked into individual portions.
Creating these carrot cake cupcakes recipe allows exploration of flavors, textures, and baking techniques while sharing something enjoyable with others.
The main purpose is to offer a homemade dessert that brings comfort and joy to family, friends, and anyone who enjoys sweet treats with a hint of spice.
Carrot cakes have roots in Europe, where sweetened vegetable cakes became popular during times when sugar was expensive.
The following steps explain how to make these carrot cake cupcakes recipe, along with serving ideas, tips, health benefits, variations, storage suggestions, and answers to common questions.
Moist And Spiced Carrot Cake Cupcakes Recipe
Carrot cake cupcakes recipe are soft, moist, and lightly spiced, offering sweet warmth balanced by the natural flavor of shredded carrots.
They have a tender crumb and a gentle chew from raisins, creating a comforting texture. The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy contrast that enhances the sweetness of the cake.
Ingredients include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, milk or yogurt, shredded carrots, and optional raisins.
Frosting requires cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.

How To Prepare Carrot Cake Cupcakes Recipe?
To make these carrot cake cupcakes recipe perfectly, follow each step carefully. Clear instructions and tips help achieve moist, flavorful cupcakes every time.
A list of helpful kitchen tools is included, though not all are necessary. Use what you have, and you’ll still create soft, spiced cupcakes topped with creamy frosting.
Recipe Overview
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Course: Dessert
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 12 standard cupcakes
Kitchen Utensils
- Mixing bowls (2 medium)
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Grater (for carrots)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula
- Muffin tray
- Cupcake liners
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 125 g all-purpose flour
- 50 g granulated sugar
- 50 g brown sugar
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp salt
- 80 ml vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 60 ml milk (or 60 g applesauce or yogurt)
- 150 g finely shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- 50 g raisins
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 100 g cream cheese, softened
- 50 g unsalted butter, softened
- 100 g powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Get the oven and pan ready
Turn on your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 12-cup muffin tray with paper liners so the cupcakes don’t stick.
2. Prepare the dry mix
In a bowl, put together all the dry ingredients: flour, sugar (both brown and white), baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Stir them together so they’re well mixed.
3. Prepare the wet mix
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, oil, vanilla, and milk (or a substitute like applesauce or yogurt) until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients
Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. A few lumps are okay over mixing can make the cupcakes tough.
5. Add the extras
Fold in the shredded carrots and raisins evenly. Make sure they’re well distributed but don’t over-stir.
6. Fill the cupcake liners
Spoon the batter into the liners so each one is about ¾ full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.
7. Bake the cupcakes
Bake for 20–25 minutes. Check by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cupcakes are done. Let them cool in the tray for a few minutes, and then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Make the frosting
Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, and then mix in vanilla and a small pinch of salt. Beat until creamy and fluffy.
9. Decorate
Once the cupcakes are cool, spread or pipe the frosting on top. You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon, chopped nuts, or even a tiny carrot decoration for a fun touch.
Notes: For extra flavor, you can toast the raisins lightly before adding them. Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a healthier version, substitute half the sugar with honey or maple syrup and use applesauce instead of oil.
Nutrition Facts Of Carrot Cake Cupcakes Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You will love this carrot cake cupcakes recipe because it produces soft, moist, and flavorful treats that are easy to make.
The warm spices blend beautifully with the natural sweetness of shredded carrots, while raisins add small bursts of chewiness. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, creamy, and slightly tangy layer that enhances the overall taste.
These carrot cake cupcakes recipe are visually appealing, easy to portion, and shareable, making them enjoyable for family, friends, or personal treats. The recipe balances sweetness and spice while staying simple to prepare.
Why My Recipe Works
This carrot cake cupcakes recipe works because each ingredient plays a specific role in creating texture, flavor, and structure. Flour provides the framework, while eggs and oil give moisture and tenderness.
Shredded carrots add natural sweetness and keep the cupcakes soft. Baking soda and baking powder ensure the batter rises properly, creating a light, airy texture.
Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring warmth and depth, while raisins add chewy bursts of flavor. The cream cheese frosting balances sweetness with a slight tang, finishing the cupcakes with smooth, rich flavor.
Health Benefits Of Carrot Cake Cupcakes Recipe
Carrot cake cupcakes recipe provide more than just sweetness. Shredded carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, supporting eye health and immunity. Carrots also add fiber, helping digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Using ingredients like yogurt or applesauce instead of some oil can reduce fat while keeping the cupcakes moist. Raisins contribute natural sweetness along with iron and antioxidants.
Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties and may help stabilize blood sugar. Overall, these cupcakes offer a slightly healthier dessert option without compromising taste.
My Tips For Success!
1. Finely shredded carrots blend smoothly into the batter, providing natural sweetness and moisture without creating large, uneven chunks. This ensures each cupcake has a consistent texture.
2. Spoon flour into a measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid adding too much. Over-measuring can make cupcakes dense and dry.
3. Eggs, milk, or yogurt at room temperature mix more easily into the batter, producing a smooth, even texture and better rise.
4. Make sure the oven reaches the correct temperature before baking. This ensures even cooking, proper rising, and prevents undercooked centers.
5. Fill each cupcake liner about three-quarters full. This prevents batter from overflowing and allows the cupcakes to rise evenly without flattening.
6. Let the cupcakes cool on a wire rack for at least 15–20 minutes. Frosting warm cupcakes can melt the cream cheese, causing it to slide off or become runny.
7. Keep cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days or in the fridge if frosted. Proper storage preserves moisture, texture, and flavor.
Storage Instructions
Carrot cake cupcakes recipe can be stored in several ways to maintain freshness. Unfrosted cupcakes keep well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days.
Frosted cupcakes should be stored in the refrigerator in a covered container for up to three days, allowing them to reach room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Unfrosted cupcakes can also be frozen for up to one month by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Cream cheese frosting should always be refrigerated to stay fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should the cupcakes be baked?
Carrot cake cupcakes usually take about 20–25 minutes in an oven preheated to around 180°C (350°F). Check them by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they are done.
Is it okay to frost warm cupcakes?
No. Frosting warm cupcakes can cause the frosting to melt or slide off, so cooling them completely first is best.
Do cupcakes need to be chilled after baking?
Unfrosted cupcakes can stay at room temperature for a few days, but ones with cream cheese frosting should be refrigerated for freshness.
Do cupcakes need refrigeration?
Frosted cupcakes should be refrigerated because cream cheese can spoil, then brought back to room temperature before eating.
Can the cupcakes be frozen?
Cupcakes can be frozen without frosting and stored for later; frost them after thawing for best texture.
Conclusion
This carrot cake cupcakes recipe is a delicious and healthy treat that everyone enjoys. The soft, moist cupcakes with warm spices, sweet carrots, and chewy raisins topped with creamy frosting make it a favorite for sharing or personal indulgence.
I created this carrot cake cupcakes recipe to serve loved ones and have enjoyed making it many times, appreciating the flavors and textures each time.
I hope you try making these carrot cake cupcakes recipe and experience the same joy and satisfaction. This carrot cake cupcakes recipe brings happiness, flavor, and a touch of homemade comfort to every occasion.
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Carrot Cake Cupcakes Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (2 medium)
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Grater (for carrots)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula
- Muffin tray
- Cupcake liners
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 125 g all-purpose flour
- 50 g granulated sugar
- 50 g brown sugar
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp salt
- 80 ml vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 60 ml milk or 60 g applesauce or yogurt
- 150 g finely shredded carrots about 2 medium carrots
- 50 g raisins
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 100 g cream cheese softened
- 50 g unsalted butter softened
- 100 g powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Get the oven and pan ready
- Turn on your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 12-cup muffin tray with paper liners so the cupcakes don’t stick.
Prepare the dry mix
- In a bowl, put together all the dry ingredients: flour, sugar (both brown and white), baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Stir them together so they’re well mixed.
Prepare the wet mix
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs, oil, vanilla, and milk (or a substitute like applesauce or yogurt) until smooth and creamy.
Combine wet and dry ingredients
- Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. A few lumps are okay over mixing can make the cupcakes tough.
Add the extras
- Fold in the shredded carrots and raisins evenly. Make sure they’re well distributed but don’t over-stir.
Fill the cupcake liners
- Spoon the batter into the liners so each one is about ¾ full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.
Bake the cupcakes
- Bake for 20–25 minutes. Check by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cupcakes are done. Let them cool in the tray for a few minutes, and then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the frosting
- Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, and then mix in vanilla and a small pinch of salt. Beat until creamy and fluffy.
Decorate
- Once the cupcakes are cool, spread or pipe the frosting on top. You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon, chopped nuts, or even a tiny carrot decoration for a fun touch.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Carrot Cake Cupcakes Recipe
Calories: 220 kcal | Carbohydrates: 30 g | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 10 g | Saturated Fat: 4 g | Sugar: 18 g | Fiber: 1 g
Hi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.