Morning Glory Muffins are a delightful and nutritious way to start your day. These muffins blend the sweetness of carrots and applesauce with the heartiness of zucchini and walnuts, creating a wholesome breakfast option that everyone will love. Perfect for busy mornings or as an on-the-go snack, Morning Glory Muffins pack in flavors and textures that set them apart from ordinary muffins. You’ll find them suitable for various occasions, whether it’s a weekend brunch or a simple weekday breakfast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like zucchini and carrots, these muffins offer a healthy boost to your morning routine.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, you’ll have these muffins ready in no time.
- Freezer Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick breakfasts when you’re short on time.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of warm spices and sweet fruits makes these muffins enjoyable for both kids and adults.
- Great for Meal Prep: You can easily make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To ensure your Morning Glory Muffins turn out perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin tins
- Paper liners
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Grater
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin tins: These help shape the muffins evenly while allowing them to rise properly.
- Mixing bowls: Using large bowls ensures you have enough space to mix your ingredients without spilling.
- Rubber spatula: This tool is perfect for folding ingredients together gently, helping maintain the muffin’s fluffy texture.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need to make your Morning Glory Muffins:
Dry Ingredients
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut (shredded)
- 1/2 cup walnuts (chopped)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup zucchini (grated and wrung out)
- 2 cups carrot (grated)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup avocado oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Morning Glory Muffins
Creating these delicious muffins is straightforward. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350° F. While it warms up, line your muffin tins with paper liners to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. Granulated sugar
2. All-purpose flour
3. Cinnamon
4. Baking soda
5. Salt
6. Shredded coconut
7. Chopped walnuts
Make sure everything is well combined before moving on.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Add in grated zucchini and grated carrots to your dry mixture. Stir until they are evenly distributed throughout.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients. In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Unsweetened applesauce
2. Maple syrup
3. Eggs
4. Avocado oil
5. Vanilla extract
Pour this mixture into the well of dry ingredients.
Step 5: Mix Together
Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; lumps are okay!
Step 6: Bake
Scoop the batter into your prepared muffin tins, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 25–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool
Let the muffins cool in the pan for 7 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 8: Store
These muffins can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Enjoy baking these delightful Morning Glory Muffins!
How to Serve Morning Glory Muffins
Morning Glory Muffins are a versatile breakfast option that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple start to your day or a more elaborate brunch, these muffins can fit the bill.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve with a side of sliced bananas or berries for a refreshing contrast.
- Add a fruit salad for a colorful and nutritious breakfast plate.
Spread with Nut Butter
- Top each muffin with almond or peanut butter for added protein.
- Try spreading cream cheese for a creamy texture that complements the spices.
Drizzled with Honey
- A light drizzle of honey can enhance the natural sweetness of the muffins.
- Consider using flavored honey, such as cinnamon or vanilla, for extra flavor.
Paired with Yogurt
- Serve alongside Greek yogurt for a balance of creaminess and tang.
- Mix in some granola for crunch and additional nutrients.
Enjoyed with Coffee or Tea
- Pair your muffins with your favorite morning beverage to complete the meal.
- A warm cup of chai tea can complement the spices beautifully.
How to Perfect Morning Glory Muffins
To achieve the perfect Morning Glory Muffins, follow these helpful tips. Each step ensures your muffins are moist and flavorful.
- Grate zucchini finely: This helps distribute moisture evenly throughout the batter.
- Use fresh spices: Fresh cinnamon adds a warm flavor that elevates your muffins.
- Don’t overmix: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to avoid dense muffins.
- Check doneness carefully: Insert a toothpick; it should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool before storing: Allow muffins to cool completely before sealing them in an airtight container to retain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Morning Glory Muffins
Morning Glory Muffins pair well with various side dishes that can round out your breakfast or brunch experience. Here are some great options:
- Cottage Cheese: Creamy and rich, it provides protein and pairs well with sweet flavors.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add heartiness and balance the muffin’s sweetness.
- Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread offers healthy fats and fiber.
- Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl brings freshness and is packed with nutrients.
- Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can provide additional energy and flavor variety.
- Green Salad: A light salad can refresh your palate, especially when dressed lightly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Morning Glory Muffins can be simple, but it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve muffin perfection.
Ignoring ingredient measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Incorrect measurements can lead to dense or overly dry muffins.
Skipping the grating step: Failing to grate the zucchini and carrots properly can result in uneven texture. Make sure to grate finely and wring out excess moisture for the best results.
Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough muffins. Mix until just combined for light and fluffy muffins.
Not checking oven temperature: An inaccurate oven temperature can affect baking time. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your muffins bake evenly.
Not letting muffins cool properly: Allowing muffins to cool in the pan for too long can make them soggy. Follow cooling instructions closely for optimal texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep in a cool place away from sunlight to maintain freshness.
Freezing Morning Glory Muffins
- Place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months; label them with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Morning Glory Muffins
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap muffins in foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Warm individual muffins on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warm through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making or storing Morning Glory Muffins, you’re not alone! Here are some of the most common inquiries.
Can I substitute ingredients in Morning Glory Muffins?
Yes, you can customize your muffins! Try using different nuts or adding dried fruits for unique flavors.
How do I make gluten-free Morning Glory Muffins?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What makes Morning Glory Muffins healthy?
Packed with veggies like zucchini and carrots, these muffins offer fiber and essential nutrients while being deliciously satisfying.
Can I use oil instead of butter in Morning Glory Muffins?
Absolutely! Avocado oil is a great choice that adds moisture without overwhelming flavors.
Final Thoughts
Morning Glory Muffins are not only a delightful breakfast option but also extremely versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite nuts, fruits, or spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm, comforting start to your day!
Morning Glory Muffins
Morning Glory Muffins are a wholesome and delicious way to energize your mornings. Bursting with the natural sweetness of carrots and applesauce, complemented by the heartiness of zucchini and walnuts, these muffins are not just a treat but a nutritious breakfast option for the whole family. Perfect for busy mornings or as an on-the-go snack, they offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that elevate them from ordinary muffins. Whether enjoyed at a weekend brunch or during a hectic weekday, Morning Glory Muffins promise to bring joy to your breakfast table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut (shredded)
- 1/2 cup walnuts (chopped)
- 1 cup zucchini (grated)
- 2 cups carrot (grated)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup avocado oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line muffin tins with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts.
- Stir in the grated zucchini and carrots until evenly distributed.
- In another bowl, whisk together the applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, avocado oil, and vanilla extract. Pour this into the dry mixture's well.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined; lumps are okay!
- Fill the muffin tins about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 25–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let cool in the pan for about 7 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
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