Morning Glory Muffins are a delightful breakfast option that combines the goodness of fruits and vegetables with warm spices. These muffins are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on busy mornings or a wholesome snack for your afternoon cravings, these muffins fit the bill perfectly. Their unique flavor profile, featuring a mix of carrots, zucchini, and coconut, will leave you wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies like zucchini and carrots, these muffins are a great way to sneak in some healthy nutrients.
- Versatile Snack: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat; enjoy them anytime!
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can whip these up quickly.
- Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and store some in the freezer for later; they taste just as good when thawed!
- Deliciously Spiced: The warm cinnamon and coconut flavors create a comforting taste that everyone will love.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your baking adventure with Morning Glory Muffins, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin tins
- Paper liners
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Grater (for zucchini and carrots)
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin tins: Essential for shaping your muffins; choose non-stick or use liners for easy removal.
- Mixing bowls: Having both large and medium bowls helps you keep wet and dry ingredients separate until ready to combine.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients together without overmixing; it’s gentle on the batter.
Ingredients
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
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line muffin tins with paper liners while you prepare the batter.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients until well combined:
* granulated sugar
* all-purpose flour
* cinnamon
* baking soda
* salt
* shredded coconut
* chopped walnuts
Add in grated zucchini and carrots; stir until evenly mixed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine:
* unsweetened applesauce
* maple syrup
* eggs
* avocado oil
* vanilla extract
Whisk these wet ingredients together until fully blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Create a well in the center of your dry mixture. Pour in the wet ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the wet into the dry until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Bake
Scoop the batter into prepared muffin tins. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Allow muffins to cool in the pan for about 7 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
How to Serve Morning Glory Muffins
Morning Glory Muffins are a versatile breakfast option that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Here are some delightful ways to serve them for breakfast or brunch.
With Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Bananas – Add a natural sweetness and creamy texture that complements the muffins.
- Berries – Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a burst of flavor and color.
- Citrus Segments – Oranges or grapefruits add a refreshing citrus touch to brighten your meal.
With Spreads
- Nut Butter – Spread almond or peanut butter on warm muffins for added protein and richness.
- Cream Cheese Alternative – A dairy-free cream cheese spread can add a delicious creamy layer.
- Honey or Maple Syrup – Drizzle honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
With Beverages
- Coffee – A classic pairing; the warmth of coffee complements the spices in the muffins.
- Herbal Tea – A calming herbal tea can enhance the muffin’s flavors without overpowering them.
- Fruit Juice – Freshly squeezed orange juice offers a refreshing balance to the hearty muffins.
How to Perfect Morning Glory Muffins
To achieve the best Morning Glory Muffins, follow these practical tips for optimal results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Ensure your fruits, vegetables, and spices are fresh for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Don’t Overmix – Combine wet and dry ingredients gently to maintain a light texture in the muffins.
- Grate Zucchini and Carrots Finely – This helps distribute moisture evenly throughout the batter.
- Monitor Baking Time – Check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid dryness.
- Cool Before Storing – Allow muffins to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Morning Glory Muffins
Pairing side dishes with your Morning Glory Muffins can elevate your breakfast experience. Here are some great options.
- Greek Yogurt – Creamy yogurt adds protein and can be topped with honey or fruit for extra flavor.
- Smoothie Bowl – A nutritious smoothie bowl filled with fruits and nuts complements the muffins well.
- Avocado Toast – A slice of whole-grain bread topped with mashed avocado provides healthy fats and fiber.
- Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal is filling and can be topped with fruits or nuts for variety.
- Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and make your breakfast more balanced.
- Chia Pudding – This nutritious pudding offers a unique texture, making it an interesting side dish choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Morning Glory Muffins can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale or expired ingredients can ruin your muffins. Always check the freshness of eggs, flour, and baking soda.
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense muffins. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated into the wet ones.
Not measuring accurately: Incorrect measurements can alter the texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale for precision whenever possible.
Skipping the cooling time: Allowing muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes helps them set properly. Don’t rush this step!
Using too much oil or sugar: Overdoing these ingredients can make muffins greasy and overly sweet. Stick to the recipe amounts for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep muffins at room temperature if consuming within this timeframe.
Freezing Morning Glory Muffins
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Make sure they are completely cooled before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating Morning Glory Muffins
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm muffins for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a muffin on high for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a muffin in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Morning Glory Muffins?
Morning Glory Muffins are a delicious breakfast treat packed with vegetables and fruits, making them both nutritious and satisfying.
Can I customize my Morning Glory Muffins?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, seeds, or different fruits like apples or raisins based on your preferences.
How do I make my Morning Glory Muffins healthier?
Consider reducing sugar or substituting half with mashed bananas or additional applesauce for natural sweetness.
What should I serve with Morning Glory Muffins?
These muffins pair well with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a side of nut butter for added protein.
Final Thoughts
Morning Glory Muffins are not only delightful but also versatile. Their combination of wholesome ingredients makes them perfect for breakfast or a snack anytime. Feel free to customize your batch by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits—enjoy experimenting!
Morning Glory Muffins
Morning Glory Muffins are a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. These wholesome treats blend an array of fruits and vegetables, including carrots and zucchini, with warm spices and coconut for a delightful flavor profile. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, these muffins are easy to make and can be stored in the freezer for later enjoyment. Their moist texture and satisfying taste will make them a favorite in your household.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 muffins 1x
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 grated zucchini
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 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. Line muffin tins with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: sugar, flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts. Add the grated zucchini and carrots; mix well.
- In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, avocado oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully blended.
- Create a well in the dry mixture's center and pour in the wet ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- Scoop the batter into prepared muffin tins and bake for about 25–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow muffins to cool for about 7 minutes in the pan before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin (60g)
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg