Ingredients:
For the Muffins:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup applesauce
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup grated carrots
1 cup grated zucchini
1 cup grated apple (peeled and cored)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the Muffins:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flours, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the grated carrots, zucchini, and apple.
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Muffins:
Once the muffins are completely cool, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting over the top of each muffin.
Optionally, garnish with additional grated carrots, zucchini, and apple for a decorative touch.