🥕🍞 Two garden favorites unite in these unbelievably moist, warmly spiced muffins that taste like carrot cake—but with a sneaky veggie boost! Packed with shredded carrots, zucchini, and crunchy walnuts, these wholesome muffins are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Double veggie power – Carrots + zucchini = extra moisture & nutrition
✔ Warm cinnamon-spiced flavor – Just like classic carrot cake!
✔ No mixer needed – Easy one-bowl mixing
✔ Meal-prep friendly – Stays fresh for days (or freeze for later)
📝 Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
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1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking soda
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1 ½ tsp cinnamon
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½ tsp nutmeg
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ÂĽ tsp ginger
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½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
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½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
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½ cup (100g) brown sugar
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ÂĽ cup (50g) granulated sugar
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2 large eggs, room temp
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Mix-Ins
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1 cup grated carrots (about 2 medium)
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1 cup grated zucchini, squeezed dry (about 1 small)
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½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
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½ cup raisins or shredded coconut (optional)
Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional but Highly Recommended!)
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4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
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ÂĽ cup (30g) powdered sugar
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1-2 tbsp milk
👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep & Mix Dry Ingredients
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners.
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In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
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In another bowl, mix oil, sugars, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
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Fold in carrots, zucchini, and nuts.
3. Bake to Perfection
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Divide batter evenly among muffin cups (fill ¾ full).
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Bake 18-22 mins until a toothpick comes out clean.
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Cool 5 mins in pan, then transfer to a rack.
4. Glaze & Serve
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Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled muffins.
đź’ˇ Pro Tips for the Best Muffins
✅ Squeeze zucchini dry – Prevents soggy muffins
✅ Toast nuts first – Enhances flavor & crunch
✅ Don’t overmix – Stir until just combined
✅ Freeze unglazed – Thaw & glaze before serving