Digital Garden

Banana-Carrot Oat Cupcakes

2 min read

Soft, naturally sweet cupcakes packed with fruit, veggies, and whole grains — perfect for toddlers and snack time.

Serves: 6 regular or 12 mini cupcakes | Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe banana (mashed)
  • 1/2 cup grated carrot (about 1 small carrot)
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 egg (or 1 flax egg: 1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, rested 5 min)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey (omit for under 1-year-olds)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats (blended into oat flour)
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

  • 2 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped spinach or zucchini
  • 2 tbsp mini dark chocolate chips or raisins

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep

    • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Line or lightly grease a mini or regular muffin tin.

  2. Mix Wet Ingredients

    • In a large mixing bowl, mash the banana.
    • Add grated carrot, applesauce, egg (or flax egg), oil, syrup (if using), and vanilla. Stir until smooth.

  3. Add Dry Ingredients

    • Add oat flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
    • Mix until just combined — do not overmix.

  4. Customize & Fill

    • Gently fold in any optional add-ins.
    • Spoon batter into muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.

  5. Bake & Cool

    • Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
    • Let cool in tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Plating & Serving

  • Serve plain or topped with a toddler-safe “frosting” (see below).
  • Great as a snack, lunchbox treat, or on-the-go breakfast.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Tips

  • Secret Ingredient Upgrade: Add a touch of orange zest for a fresh twist that pairs beautifully with carrot and banana.
  • Extra Nutrition: Stir in a spoonful of nut butter or hemp seeds for added healthy fats and protein.
  • Natural Sweetness: Overripe bananas bring the best flavor and sweetness.

Toddler-Friendly Frosting

  • Greek yogurt + a dash of maple syrup or mashed banana
  • Whipped cream cheese + a drop of vanilla
  • Blended strawberries or blueberries + full-fat yogurt

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