Carrot Apple Zucchini Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients:

For the Muffins:

• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1 cup grated zucchini
• 1 cup grated apple (peeled)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions:

For the Muffins:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease with non-stick spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
5. Fold in the grated carrots, zucchini, apple, and if using, nuts and raisins.
6. Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
3. Once the muffins are completely cooled, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting over the tops of the muffins.

Tips:

• These muffins can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• The frosting can be flavored with a bit of orange zest or a splash of maple syrup for a unique twist.