Carrot Cake Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling and Streusel Topping

Dive into the delightful world of Carrot Cake Muffins, an irresistible treat that combines the moist, spiced goodness of carrot cake with a luscious cream cheese filling and a crunchy streusel topping. Each muffin is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, making them an ideal treat for any time of the day. Whether you’re celebrating Easter, hosting a brunch, or simply craving something sweet, these muffins are sure to impress with their gourmet bakery-style appearance and homemade taste.

Why You’ll Love This:
These muffins are a crowd-pleaser, offering the classic taste of carrot cake in a convenient, portable form. The surprise cream cheese filling adds a rich, creamy contrast to the spiced carrot muffin, while the pecans provide a delightful crunch. The streusel topping is the cherry on top, adding a sugary cinnamon crust to each bite. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these muffins are a must-try for any carrot cake aficionado.

Perfect Occasion:
Ideal for springtime gatherings, Easter celebrations, or any occasion that calls for a special treat. They’re also great for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a comforting snack. Present them in a beautiful muffin rack at your next brunch or package them up for a thoughtful homemade gift that’s sure to be appreciated.

Decoration Tips:
For an extra special touch, drizzle the baked muffins with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a pinch of cinnamon for a beautiful and tasty finish. Serving them on a decorative plate or in individual cupcake wrappers can enhance their visual appeal, making them even more irresistible.

Muffin Mix:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/3 cup light tasting olive oil
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Streusel Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Mix wet and dry ingredients for the muffins separately before combining them. Fold in the grated carrots and optional pecans.
3. For the cream cheese filling, mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Prepare the streusel topping by combining the dry ingredients, then mixing in melted butter until clumpy.
5. Line a muffin pan with liners, filling alternating cups.
6. Fill each liner halfway with muffin batter, add a tablespoon of cream cheese filling, then top with more batter.
7. Sprinkle the streusel topping over each muffin.
8. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden.

Enjoy these Carrot Cake Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling and Streusel Topping, a delightful treat that brings together the best aspects of carrot cake in a muffin form. Perfect for sharing or treating yourself!