Caramel Pecan Carrot Cupcakes - Cupcake Fanatic

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¾ cup canola or vegetable oil
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 cup finely shredded carrots
• ½ cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
• ½ cup raisins (optional)
• ½ cup pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, softened
• 1¾ cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup caramel topping
• ⅓ cup pecans, chopped