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