From C&H Sugar

Makes 24 cupcakes

Moist and fluffy carrot cake cupcakes with a touch of fresh ginger and spices are perfect for for an Easter brunch, or will become a new fall favorite.

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE CUPCAKES

1 1/2 cups C&H Granulated Sugar

1 cup vegetable oil

4 large eggs

3 cups carrots, peeled and freshly grated

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated

1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped

FOR THE CREAM CHEESE FROSTING

2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

2 (16-ounce) packages, sifted C&H Confectioners Sugar

2 tablespoons chopped walnuts, as garnish

DIRECTIONS

1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 24 muffin cups with paper liners.

2.In the bowl of an electric mixer, fitted with the paddle attachment, beat sugar, oil, and eggs at medium speed for 1 minute.

3.Add the carrots and all the dry ingredients to the egg and oil mixture and beat until all ingredients are incorporated. Add the walnuts and mix.

4.Scoop batter evenly into muffin tins 2/3 full (1/4 cup) and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

5.Prepare the cream cheese frosting. In the bowl of an electric mixer, fitted with the paddle attachment, beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar and mix until well incorporated. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. Garnish with chopped walnuts.

CHEF’S TIP: Freshly grated carrots are better for the batter than the previously grated carrots you find available at the store. Freshly grated carrots provide more moisture and body to the batter.

Find this recipe and more holiday treats at chsugar.com