Description: Moist and spiced carrot cake muffins topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, garnished with chopped walnuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon. These festive muffins are perfect for holiday breakfasts or desserts.
Recipe:
- Servings: 12 muffins
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Muffins:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or raisins (optional)
For the Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare Muffin Batter: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. In another bowl, mix sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in grated carrots and walnuts or raisins if using.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Grease silicone muffin cups or line them with paper liners. Divide the batter evenly among the cups, filling about 2/3 full.
- Cook Muffins: Place the muffin cups in the air fryer basket and cook for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Frost and Garnish: Once the muffins are completely cooled, frost them with the cream cheese mixture. Garnish with chopped walnuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Nutritional Information (Per Muffin):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
Notes:
- For a healthier version, substitute part of the flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly.
- Store the muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add shredded coconut or pineapple for a tropical twist.
Let me know if you’d like more holiday baking recipes or variations! 😊