Start your day right with these easy and nutritious Morning Glory Muffins. Packed with fruits, vegetables, and nuts, these muffins are a delicious way to fuel your morning and keep you feeling satisfied until lunchtime. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weekend breakfast treat, a delightful addition to a holiday brunch, or a wholesome after-school snack, these muffins fit the bill perfectly.
This post will guide you through crafting these delightful muffins, covering the recipe itself, helpful tips, ingredient variations, and more. If you enjoy these, consider exploring other muffin recipes like cranberry orange, oatmeal, and blueberry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Nutritious and Filling: Loaded with carrots, apples, raisins, walnuts, and coconut.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack.
- Kid-Friendly: Sneak in those extra veggies and fruits without complaints.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps with pantry-friendly ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and grated
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
Optional: Add 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple (drained) for extra moisture and flavor.
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Muffin pan
- Muffin liners
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Grater
- Wire rack
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin pan with liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, beat eggs. Stir in vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and brown sugar until well combined. Add grated carrots and grated apple, mixing thoroughly.
- Mix Batter:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in raisins, walnuts, and coconut. Avoid overmixing.
- Bake:
- Spoon the batter into muffin liners, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve:
- Cool muffins in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Healthier Option: Substitute part of the oil with applesauce for lower fat content.
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle oats or seeds on top before baking for extra texture.
Storing Leftovers:
- Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Food and Drink Pairings:
- Side Dishes: Fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfait.
- Beverages: Coffee, tea, or a refreshing glass of apple juice.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze Morning Glory Muffins? Yes, these muffins freeze well. Store in a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months.
- How do I know when the muffins are done baking? Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging to it.
Call to Action:
Start your day deliciously with these wholesome Morning Glory Muffins! Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a gathering, these muffins are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the blend of flavors and textures that make each bite a delight.