If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly combines the flavors of a classic carrot cake with the convenience of handheld portions, look no further than these scrumptious Carrot Cake Muffins. Bursting with the warm, comforting spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, these muffins are a cozy addition to any morning routine or afternoon tea. With a moist and tender crumb, and the sweetness of grated carrots and crushed pineapple, these muffins offer a perfect balance of indulgence and wholesome goodness.
**Carrot Cake Muffins**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup finely grated carrots
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Cream cheese frosting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, to the wet mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Gently fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped pecans, if using. The batter should be thick and lumpy.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
9. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. If desired, top the cooled muffins with a dollop of cream cheese frosting for an extra touch of sweetness and decadence.
These Carrot Cake Muffins are a delightful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of carrot cake in a convenient and portable form. Whether enjoyed as a morning treat with a cup of coffee or shared with loved ones over tea, these muffins are sure to bring a smile to your face. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins like raisins or coconut, and don’t forget to savor each bite of this cozy and delicious creation.
