Morning Glory Muffins are the perfect way to start your day with a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful treat. Packed with shredded carrots, apples, raisins, coconut, and nuts, these muffins are loaded with wholesome ingredients. They’re moist, slightly sweet, and full of texture, making them a great breakfast or snack option. Plus, they’re easily customizable to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (optional for added fiber)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-Ins:
- 1 cup grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- 1 medium apple, peeled and grated
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (optional)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (or milk)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the tin.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour (if using), baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, applesauce, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Fold in the Add-Ins
- Gently fold in the grated carrots, grated apple, shredded coconut, raisins, chopped nuts, and sunflower or pumpkin seeds (if using).
- Add the orange juice (or milk) to loosen the batter if needed. The batter should be thick but not too dry.
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tins
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling them about 3/4 full.
Step 7: Bake the Muffins
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Serve
- Enjoy the muffins warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.
Cook Notes
- Shred Fresh Ingredients: For the best texture, grate your own carrots and apples instead of using pre-shredded options. Freshly grated ingredients will release more moisture, making the muffins extra tender.
- Add a Crunch: If you prefer crunchier muffins, lightly toast the nuts and seeds before folding them into the batter.
- Storage: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Variations
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose and whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Version: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) in place of the eggs, and replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Keto Version: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit.
- Lower-Sugar Version: Reduce the sugar by half or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes! Morning Glory Muffins are great for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for a quick and healthy breakfast or snack throughout the week.
Can I freeze Morning Glory Muffins?
Yes, these muffins freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil?
Yes! You can use melted coconut oil, olive oil, or even unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat option.
How can I make these muffins less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that using less sugar may slightly alter the texture, but they’ll still be delicious.
Can I add other fruits or vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add grated zucchini, shredded pineapple, or even mashed banana for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as these add-ins might make the batter more wet.
Morning Glory Muffins are a wholesome, nutrient-packed way to start your day. Filled with fresh carrots, apples, nuts, and warm spices, these muffins are as nutritious as they are delicious. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast option or a snack to get you through the day, these muffins are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Try customizing them with your favorite add-ins and flavors for a muffin that’s perfect for you
