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Carrot Cake Zucchini Muffins Recipe

4.9 from 128 reviews

These Carrot Cake Zucchini Muffins combine the moist, spiced flavors of classic carrot cake with the added nutrition of zucchini. Perfect as a wholesome snack or breakfast treat, they are made with whole wheat flour, oats, and natural sweeteners, delivering a delightful texture and taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
  • 1/2 cup shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional

  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining with paper liners or lightly greasing each cup with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, rolled oats, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, eggs, unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract thoroughly until smooth.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir just until ingredients are combined; avoid overmixing to keep muffins tender.
  5. Fold in Vegetables and Nuts: Carefully fold in the shredded carrots, zucchini, and nuts if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
  7. Bake Muffins: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the muffins comes out clean, indicating they are fully baked.
  8. Cool: Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy and helps maintain their shape.

Notes

  • For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or pecans.
  • Make sure to lightly squeeze out excess moisture from zucchini to prevent soggy muffins.
  • These muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
  • Freezing is possible—wrap muffins individually and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw before eating.
  • Use honey or maple syrup interchangeably based on your preference or dietary needs.

Keywords: carrot cake muffins, zucchini muffins, healthy muffins, breakfast muffin, spiced muffins, whole wheat muffins, vegetarian snacks