Name: Carrot Cake Muffins with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp allspice; 1 cup grated carrots; ½ cup chopped walnuts; ½ cup raisins; 1 cup brown sugar; ⅓ cup vegetable oil; 2 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 67 reviews

If you have a soft spot for cozy, moist baked treats packed with wholesome ingredients, you are going to absolutely love this Carrot Cake Muffins with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe. These muffins perfectly balance the natural sweetness of grated carrots and plump raisins with the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts, all wrapped in a fragrant blend of cinnamon and allspice. Every bite bursts with comforting flavors and textures that make these muffins an ideal snack, breakfast, or dessert. Plus, they’re so simple to whip up, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of multiple baking ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. At the top left, there is a large clear glass bowl filled with white flour. To the right, there are three metal measuring spoons arranged vertically, holding white salt, white baking powder, and brown cinnamon powder. Below these, there is another vertical line of metal spoons, filled with brown cinnamon powder, golden oil, and amber liquid respectively. On the bottom left, there is a small white bowl filled with chopped walnuts, and next to it, a white bowl with dark raisins. Below them, a small white bowl has two raw eggs with visible yolks. To the left of the eggs, there is a white bowl filled with orange grated carrots. Finally, at the bottom right, a metal measuring cup contains brown sugar. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the list intimidate you—each ingredient here plays a crucial role in creating these soft, flavorful carrot cake muffins. From the warm spices that give a comforting aroma to the brown sugar adding rich sweetness, every component works together to make these muffins simply irresistible.

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base of your muffin, providing structure and a tender crumb.
2 tsp baking powder: Helps the muffins rise beautifully and stay light.
1 tsp baking soda: Reacts with the acidic ingredients to give lift and softness.
1 tsp cinnamon: Adds that classic warm spice note essential for carrot cake.
½ tsp allspice: Gives the muffins a subtle, autumnal depth of flavor.
1 cup grated carrots: Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and a lovely orange hue.
½ cup chopped walnuts: Provides a crunchy texture and nutty flavor contrast.
½ cup raisins: Bring bursts of sweetness that complement the spices.
1 cup brown sugar: Infuses a mild caramel richness and keeps the muffins moist.
⅓ cup vegetable oil: Ensures the muffins stay tender and soft without dryness.
2 eggs: Bind everything together and give structure with a silky texture.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds a sweet, fragrant note.

How to Make Carrot Cake Muffins with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

First things first, you want to preheat your oven to 350°F. While it’s warming up, line your muffin tin with paper liners. This not only helps with easy cleanup but also gives your muffins a neat, classic finish that’s picture-perfect for sharing.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Grab a large bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and allspice. This blend of dry ingredients will evenly distribute the rising agents and spices, ensuring each muffin is bursting with flavor and the perfect fluffiness.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, raisins, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mixing these now helps the sugar dissolve and coats the additions evenly, which translates to consistent texture and taste throughout each bite.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Mixtures Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir with a spatula just until combined. Be careful not to overmix here; a few small lumps are okay and actually help keep the muffins tender and moist by preventing gluten overdevelopment.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups

Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to evenly portion the batter into the muffin cups. Each cup should be about three-quarters full to leave room for the muffins to rise without spilling over.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Pop the muffins into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This bakes them through while keeping the interior irresistibly moist.

Step 7: Cool and Finish

Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes so they set up a bit, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra-special touch, sprinkle with more chopped walnuts or drizzle with maple syrup right before serving to add a little hint of sweetness and flair.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Muffins with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe

The image shows three carrot muffins stacked on a white marbled surface. The bottom muffin is in a white paper wrapper with shredded orange carrots and small chopped walnuts sprinkled on top. The middle muffin, also in a white paper wrapper, is topped with the same shredded carrot and walnut pieces. A woman's hand holds the top muffin, which is broken in half to show its soft, moist inside with visible carrot bits and a shiny drizzle of honey or syrup running down. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light cream cheese glaze can elevate these muffins beautifully. Toasted walnut pieces scattered on top just before serving add texture and visual appeal, making every bite feel like a little celebration.

Side Dishes

Pair these muffins with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or your favorite chai tea. A bowl of fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side complements the hearty flavors while adding freshness and creaminess, turning your snack into a balanced mini-meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider turning these muffins into a fun treat by slicing them in half and spreading cream cheese frosting or nut butter inside, then sandwiching back together. Arranging them on a rustic wooden board surrounded by nuts and dried fruit creates an inviting centerpiece for brunch or an afternoon gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Carrot Cake Muffins with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick breakfast grab-n-go options through the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep these muffins longer, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Reheating

To warm your muffins, pop them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or give them a quick toast in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to bring back that just-baked softness with a lightly crisped exterior.

FAQs

Can I substitute the walnuts for another nut?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work beautifully as alternatives, each bringing their own lovely crunch and flavor to the muffins. Just be mindful of nut allergies if serving to others.

Are these muffins gluten-free?

This Carrot Cake Muffins with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free as written. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends that measure cup-for-cup for a similar texture.

Can I use fresh or dried carrots?

Freshly grated carrots are best because they add moisture and freshness to the muffins. Avoid using dried carrots as they won’t provide the same texture or flavor impact.

How do I make the muffins less sweet?

You can reduce the brown sugar slightly or swap it out for coconut sugar for a more subtle sweetness without sacrificing moisture. Just keep the balance to ensure your muffins still rise well.

Can I add cream cheese frosting?

Yes, topping these muffins with a dollop of cream cheese frosting is a classic touch. Just keep it chilled until ready to serve to maintain the perfect texture alongside the moist muffins.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a muffin recipe that combines warm spices, wholesome ingredients, and a burst of texture in every bite, this Carrot Cake Muffins with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s straightforward, rewarding, and bound to bring smiles at breakfast or as a snack. I can’t wait for you to try it and savor the delicious, cozy flavors that make these muffins such a treasured treat.