Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese

Name: Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup grated carrots; 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for consistency)

Highlighted under: Sweet Treat Creations

I absolutely love making these Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese! They are incredibly moist and bursting with flavor from the grated carrots and warm spices. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy contrast that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cupcakes. What's great about this recipe is how simple it is to make; even a novice baker can whip these up with ease. Whether for a special occasion or just to treat ourselves, they never fail to impress.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:38:27.992Z

When I first tried my hand at baking carrot cake, I was amazed at how the flavors blended together. The moistness of the cake paired beautifully with the cream cheese frosting, creating an irresistible combination. I experimented with various spices until I found a balance that made these cupcakes unique. Trust me, the addition of cinnamon and nutmeg gives these treats a warm, inviting aroma that fills the kitchen!

One essential tip I learned is to grate the carrots finely; this ensures that they integrate smoothly into the batter, making the cupcakes incredibly moist without overloading on chunks. Using fresh carrots instead of pre-grated ones really enhances the flavor and texture. Give it a try, and you’ll taste the difference!

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Moist and flavorful with a wonderful spice blend
Tangy cream cheese frosting for the perfect balance
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion

Understanding Your Ingredients

The star of these cupcakes, grated carrots, not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute to the moisture and texture. Opt for fresh carrots and grate them finely; this ensures they meld seamlessly into the batter, creating that delightful tender bite. Additionally, crushed pineapple adds a unique flavor and enhances the moisture level. Make sure to drain it well to avoid a soggy batter, which can happen if there's excess liquid from the fruit.

The spices in this recipe, particularly cinnamon and nutmeg, are essential for imparting warmth and depth to the overall flavor. Using freshly grated nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile even more compared to pre-ground spices. If you're looking for a twist, consider adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom for an extra zing that complements the sweetness of the carrots and pineapple beautifully.

Frosting Tips for Success

Achieving the perfect cream cheese frosting is key to elevating your cupcakes. Start with room temperature cream cheese and butter to allow them to combine easily, which gives the frosting a smooth and creamy texture. If your frosting seems too thick, adding a tablespoon of milk can help achieve a spreadable consistency, but be careful not to make it too runny. A good test is to refrigerate it for a few minutes; if it holds its shape when spread, it’s ready!

For a decorative touch, consider using a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip to frost the cupcakes. This not only makes them visually appealing but allows for more control over the amount of frosting applied. A simple swirl or rosette can transform the presentation. If you're feeling adventurous, top your frosted cupcakes with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup grated carrots
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk (optional, for consistency)

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with paper liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots and crushed pineapple.

Bake the Cupcakes

Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter before gradually adding the powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Frost the cooled cupcakes as desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the cream cheese frosting before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

These carrot cake cupcakes can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect treat for busy schedules. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you plan to frost them later, keep the un-frosted cupcakes refrigerated, then frost them on the day you plan to serve for the best texture and flavor.

For longer storage, consider freezing the un-frosted cupcakes. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to indulge, let them thaw at room temperature before frosting. This method keeps them moist and fresh, ensuring you always have a delightful dessert on hand!

Serving Suggestions

These cupcakes can be garnished with various toppings to match your occasion. A sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top not only adds a nutty crunch but also boosts the flavor profile. For a more festive touch, decorate with edible flowers or colored sprinkles, especially if serving at a birthday party or special event. The visual appeal of these additions can enhance the overall dessert experience.

Pair these delicious cupcakes with a cup of herbal tea or a rich cup of coffee. The warm spices in the cake complement the coffee's bitterness, while the creaminess of the frost balances the flavors. You could even serve them with a side of whipped cream or a dollop of coconut yogurt for an extra indulgent treat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How long can I store these cupcakes?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze carrot cake cupcakes?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Just thaw and frost them when you're ready to enjoy.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute for a different flavor.