Mediterranean Carrot and Raisin Muffins
These carrot and raisin muffins bring together warm Mediterranean flavors with the sweetness of fruit and the moisture from fresh carrots. They feel wholesome and comforting without being heavy. The raisins soften as they bake, the carrots add natural sweetness and moisture and the spices give them a cozy aroma. Olive oil replaces butter, which gives the muffins a soft crumb and a gentle Mediterranean note. These work well for breakfast, tea time or a snack you can pack for the next day. They are simple to prepare and rely on ingredients you probably already have.
Total time: 35 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes
Baking: 20 to 25 minutes
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
2 eggs
½ cup olive oil
½ cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup finely grated carrots
Add-ins
½ cup raisins
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pistachios (optional)
Zest of one orange
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tray with paper liners.
In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt.
In another bowl, whisk eggs, olive oil, honey and vanilla until smooth.
Fold the grated carrots into the wet mixture.
Add orange zest for extra brightness.
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir gently.
Fold in the raisins and nuts if using.
Scoop the batter into the muffin cups, filling them about three-quarters full.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean.
Let the muffins cool on a rack and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
Use finely grated carrots so they blend evenly into the batter.
If raisins are dry, soak them in warm water for five minutes to plump them.
Do not overmix the batter. It keeps the muffins light.
Use light olive oil for a neutral but smooth flavor.
Add a spoon of yogurt if you want a softer crumb.
Spoon flour lightly when measuring so the muffins don’t become dense.
Let the muffins cool before removing the liners to avoid tearing.
For stronger spice, increase cinnamon slightly.
Use a cookie scoop for even muffin sizes.
Store muffins in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
Variations
Replace raisins with chopped dates for a deeper sweetness.
Add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Use almond flour for part of the flour to make them nuttier.
Add lemon zest instead of orange for a sharper citrus note.
Swap honey for mashed banana to lower added sweetness.
Add cardamom for a stronger Mediterranean spice profile.
Mix in chopped apples for extra moisture.
Make them dairy free by sticking to olive oil and no yogurt.
Add chocolate chips for a dessert version.
Turn the batter into a loaf and bake for 40 to 45 minutes instead.
Q&A
Can I make these without eggs?
Use two flax eggs. The texture will be slightly denser.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but replace only half so the muffins don’t become too heavy.
Can I skip the nuts?
Yes. They’re optional.
Are these muffins very sweet?
They’re mildly sweet because the honey and carrots balance each other.
Can I use olive oil with a strong flavor?
It works, but a mild or light one is better for baking.
How long do they stay fresh?
Up to three days at room temperature or one week in the fridge.
Can I freeze them?
Yes. Freeze for up to two months.
Do I need to peel the carrots?
Peeling is optional. Just wash them well.
Can I add oats?
Yes. Replace ¼ cup of flour with ¼ cup of oats.
Why did my muffins sink?
They may have been underbaked or the batter was overmixed.
Nutrition
(per muffin, approximate)
Calories: 190
Protein: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 23 g
Fat: 9 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 11 g (from honey and carrots)
Sodium: Low
Conclusion
These Mediterranean carrot and raisin muffins offer a balanced mix of warm spice, fruit sweetness and the gentle richness of olive oil. They feel comforting but light enough to enjoy any time of day. The carrots keep them moist, the raisins bring pockets of sweetness and the citrus zest lifts the flavor. They are easy to adjust with nuts, coconut or extra spices depending on what you like. They’re also quick to make and hold up well for meal prep, gifting or a simple morning snack. Serve them warm or at room temperature and store extras for a reliable treat throughout the week.