Name: Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup melted coconut oil; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 1/3 cups grated carrots; 1 1/3 cups all purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 8 ounces cream cheese; 2 sticks salted butter, at room temperature; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup warm milk

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 71 reviews

If you have a soft spot for sweet, warmly spiced treats that feel like a cozy hug, then this Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These little delights pack all the comforting flavors of classic carrot cake into perfectly sized cupcakes topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that’s both silky and dreamy. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe brings vibrant colors, tender crumb, and that irresistible frosting swirl together in perfect harmony.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with a loose pile of bright orange shredded carrots sits in the center of the image on a dark surface. Two brown eggs rest near the bottom right of the bowl. At the bottom left corner, a rectangular package labeled

Every ingredient in this Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe plays a vital role, from the moistness provided by grated carrots and Greek yogurt to the warm spices that give it a cozy aroma and flavor. These simple pantry staples come together beautifully to create a cake that’s rich without being too heavy and irresistibly balanced in taste.

Melted coconut oil: Adds moisture and a subtle richness with a hint of tropical aroma.
Brown sugar: Brings deep sweetness and a slight molasses flavor to enrich the cake’s warmth.
Plain Greek yogurt: Keeps the cupcakes tender and moist while adding a slight tang.
Large eggs: Provide structure and help everything bind perfectly.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors with a sweet aromatic touch.
Grated carrots: The star ingredient, giving natural sweetness, moisture, and beautiful color.
All-purpose flour: The base that gives the cupcakes their delightful crumb.
Baking soda and baking powder: Together they ensure the cupcakes rise nicely and stay light.
Ground cinnamon and ground ginger: Create that warm, cozy spice note synonymous with classic carrot cake.
Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Cream cheese: For the frosting’s classic creamy tang.
Salted butter: Adds richness and smooth texture to the frosting.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to a perfect silky finish.
Warm milk: Allows you to customize the frosting’s consistency for easy spreading or piping.

How to Make Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Mix the Wet Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350° F and lining your cupcake molds with paper liners. In a large bowl, beat together the melted coconut oil, brown sugar, eggs, plain Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. This mixture sets the stage for a moist, flavorful base that will carry the spices and carrot beautifully.

Step 2: Incorporate the Carrots and Dry Ingredients

Fold the grated carrots into your wet mixture, ensuring they’re evenly distributed so every cupcake gets that perfect dose of natural moisture and sweetness. Next, add your dry ingredients — all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt — and mix just until everything comes together. Overmixing here can lead to denser cupcakes, so keep it gentle and patient.

Step 3: Bake Until Just Set

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and slide them into the oven. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, checking for doneness by ensuring the tops are just set and no longer wiggly in the middle. This careful timing keeps them soft and tender without drying out. Once baked, let them cool completely before frosting.

Step 4: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a stand mixer, begin by beating the cream cheese until light and whipped. Add the room temperature salted butter and continue beating until the mixture turns fluffy and pale, about two minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract, beating after each addition until everything is smooth and airy. Slowly stream in warm milk to reach your ideal frosting consistency — whether you want thick swirls or a lighter spread. This frosting is pure decadence and balances the cupcakes perfectly.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, frost each generously with your cream cheese frosting. For an eye-catching finish, consider dusting them with matcha powder, strawberry powder, or even topping with edible flowers to add color and a fresh twist. Presentation can turn these simple cupcakes into stunning treats perfect for any occasion.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Several cupcakes are placed on a white marbled surface. Each cupcake has one thick layer of light cream-colored frosting swirled on top, sprinkled with green powder. Small white flowers decorate the frosting, some close to the center and some scattered around. The cupcake wrappers are a light brown color. There is a white plate in the bottom left corner with green powder on it, and a spoon is visible. The overall scene is soft and delicate with a mix of cream, green, and white colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate these cupcakes from everyday treats to elegant desserts. A sprinkle of finely chopped walnuts or pecans adds a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy frosting. If you’re feeling fancy, a light dusting of cinnamon powder or a few shavings of fresh carrot can make each cupcake pop visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

These cupcakes pair beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or spiced chai tea — their warm notes perfectly complement the spices in the cake. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side can also transform them into a dessert that feels indulgent yet balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe into the centerpiece of any celebration by arranging them on a tiered cake stand or decorating the cupcakes with themed toppers for birthdays and holidays. Wrapping each cupcake with a delicate ribbon or placing them in decorative wrappers adds a charming touch that guests will adore before the first bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cupcakes stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cream cheese frosting requires chilling to keep its texture and flavor vibrant. Just make sure they’re not stacked to avoid smooshing the frosting.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping each one individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and frost fresh for best results. Frosted cupcakes can be frozen too, but the texture of the frosting may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

If you prefer your cupcakes slightly warm, gently microwave an unfrosted cupcake for about 10 seconds — frosting melts too quickly, so it’s best added after warming. This little trick creates a freshly baked feel that’s almost irresistible.

FAQs

Can I substitute the coconut oil with another oil?

Absolutely! You can use vegetable oil or melted butter instead of coconut oil. Just keep in mind that coconut oil adds a subtle flavor and richness that complements the carrots beautifully, but other oils will work fine to keep the cupcakes moist.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, sour cream or buttermilk are excellent alternatives that also impart moisture and a slight tang to balance the sweetness perfectly.

How do I make sure the cupcakes don’t become too dense?

The key is not to overmix once you add the flour and to use both baking soda and baking powder to achieve a proper rise. Also, make sure to measure your flour correctly to avoid heaviness in the batter.

Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins are classic additions to carrot cake that provide texture and bursts of flavor. Fold them gently into the batter before baking for a delightful twist.

How long does the cream cheese frosting last once made?

The frosting is best used within 2-3 days if refrigerated. For longer storage, keep it tightly sealed in a container. Always give it a quick whip before frosting if it’s been resting for a while to refresh its creaminess.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about this Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that brings warmth and joy with every bite. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the classic flavors of carrot cake in a fun, shareable portion that’s hard to resist. I hope you give this recipe a try — your kitchen will smell amazing, and you might just find these cupcakes becoming a new staple for your gatherings and cozy moments alike.