Prep Time:  15 minutes

Cook Time:  20 minutes

Yield:  18 cupcakes

By: Lisa Ann Dinunzio

"I come from a family of cooks and was inspired to cook and bake ever since I was young. Mother and Grandmom were always in the kitchen cooking up something delicious. This recipe is handed down from Grandmom and is always requested at special gatherings. -Lisa Ann DiNunzio, Vineland, New Jersey"

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 3 cups grated carrots
   

FROSTING:

• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Chopped walnuts

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients. In another bowl, beat eggs, oil and syrup. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in carrots. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full.
2. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks.
3. For frosting, combine cream cheese, butter, syrup and vanilla in a mixing bowl; beat until smooth. Frost cooled cupcakes. Sprinkle with nuts if desired.
    

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