Carrot Cake Zucchini Muffins Recipe
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.
- Author: Windy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Fold in Vegetables and Nuts: Carefully fold in the shredded carrots, zucchini, and nuts if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
- 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.
- 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