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Carrot Apple Zucchini Muffins Recipe with Frosting

Carrot Apple Zucchini Muffins Recipe with Frosting


Description

Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re diving into a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion – Carrot Apple Zucchini Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting. These muffins are a delightful combination of fresh vegetables and fruits, making them a nutritious and tasty option for breakfast, snack, or dessert. Let’s get started!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Muffins:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup applesauce
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup grated carrots
  • 1 cup grated zucchini
  • 1 cup grated apple (peeled and cored)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Feel free to make substitutions as needed. For a gluten-free version, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.


Instructions

  • Prepare the Muffins:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the flours, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
    • In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
    • Fold in the grated carrots, zucchini, and apple.
    • Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    • Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
    • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.
    • Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and well combined.
  • Assemble the Muffins:
    • Once the muffins are completely cool, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting over the top of each muffin.
    • Optionally, garnish with additional grated carrots, zucchini, and apple for a decorative touch.

Notes

  • Ensure your grated vegetables and fruits are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
  • For a more intense flavor, let the batter rest for about 10 minutes before baking.