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
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.
Equipment

2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →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.