🧁 Carrot Cake Zucchini Muffins (Mediterranean-Inspired)
🌿 Description
These Carrot Cake Zucchini Muffins combine the warm spices of classic carrot cake with the light, olive-oil richness of Mediterranean baking. They’re moist from grated carrot and zucchini, naturally sweetened, and perfect for breakfast, snack time, or a healthier dessert. No heavy frosting needed—just pure, comforting flavor in every bite.
🛒 Ingredients (Makes 12 muffins)
Dry Ingredients
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1¾ cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose)
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1 tsp baking soda
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½ tsp baking powder
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1½ tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp ground nutmeg
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¼ tsp ground ginger
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¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
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2 large eggs
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½ cup olive oil (or light olive oil)
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½ cup honey or maple syrup
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Add-Ins
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1 cup finely grated carrots
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1 cup grated zucchini (squeezed dry)
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⅓ cup chopped walnuts or almonds
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¼ cup raisins or chopped dates (optional)
🔪 Instructions
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Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F. Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
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Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl.
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In another bowl, whisk eggs, olive oil, honey, and vanilla until smooth.
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Stir in carrots and zucchini.
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Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined.
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Fold in nuts and dried fruit if using.
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Divide batter evenly into muffin cups.
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Bake 20–24 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
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Cool for 10 minutes before serving.
🌿 Mediterranean Serving Ideas
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Enjoy with Greek yogurt & honey
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Serve with mint tea or espresso
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Add a light lemon yogurt drizzle for special occasions
❓ Q & A – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to peel the zucchini?
A: No. The peel is tender and adds nutrients—just grate and squeeze out excess moisture.
Q: Can I make these muffins sugar-free?
A: Yes. Use dates or date syrup instead of honey or maple syrup.
Q: Can I make them vegan?
A: Yes. Replace eggs with 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flax + 5 tbsp water).
Q: How do I store these muffins?
A:
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Room temperature: 2 days
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Refrigerator: up to 5 days
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Freezer: up to 2 months (wrap well)
Q: Can I add cream cheese?
A: Absolutely. Add a cream cheese swirl or spread lightly when serving.
Q: Are these suitable for weight-friendly diets?
A: Yes—made with olive oil, vegetables, and natural sweeteners, they fit well into a Mediterranean lifestyle.
