Carrot Cake Zucchini Muffins Recipe

🥕 Ingredients

  • 1 cup grated zucchini (squeeze out excess moisture)
  • 1 cup grated carrots
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Optional Add-ins:

  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • ¼ cup raisins or chopped dates
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (for added sweetness)
  • ¼ cup whole wheat flour or oat flour (if batter needs thickening)
  • Pinch of salt

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven
    Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with oil.
  2. Prepare the Veggies
    Grate the zucchini and carrots using a box grater. Place the zucchini in a clean towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out excess water to prevent soggy muffins.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients
    In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract until frothy. If using maple syrup or honey, add it here and mix well.
  4. Add the Veggies
    Stir in the grated carrots and zucchini until evenly combined.
  5. Combine Dry Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, mix the baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. If using flour, add it here.
  6. Combine Wet and Dry
    Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—do not overmix. If the batter seems too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches a thick, spoonable consistency.
  7. Add Optional Ingredients
    Fold in chopped nuts, raisins, or dates for extra texture and flavor.
  8. Fill Muffin Cups
    Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
  9. Bake
    Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Muffins should be golden and slightly firm to the touch.
  10. Cool and Glaze (Optional)
    Let muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. For a carrot cake-style finish, drizzle with a light cream cheese glaze or yogurt-honey topping.

🌿 Wellness Highlights

  • Zucchini adds moisture and fiber with minimal calories.
  • Carrots provide beta-carotene and natural sweetness.
  • Eggs offer protein and structure.
  • Cinnamon supports blood sugar balance and adds warmth.

These muffins are perfect for meal prep, lunchboxes, or a guilt-free dessert. Would you like a version with turmeric or ginger for added anti-inflammatory benefits?

Leave a Comment