Morning Glory Muffins
Morning Glory Muffins are the perfect healthy breakfast option! Bursting with flavor and packed with veggies, these muffins will keep you energized throughout the day. They are ideal for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, or even as a nutritious snack. With their unique combination of ingredients, Morning Glory Muffins provide a delightful twist on traditional muffins that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Delicious: These muffins are loaded with zucchini, carrots, and coconut, making them a wholesome choice for breakfast.
- Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch and enjoy them in no time.
- Versatile Snack: Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, they cater to various occasions and cravings.
- Batch-Friendly: Make a large batch and store them for later; they freeze well for up to two months!
- Kid-Friendly: The sweet flavors make these muffins appealing to kids while sneaking in some veggies.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make the process quick and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin tins
- Paper liners
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin tins: These are essential for shaping your muffins perfectly; they help them rise beautifully.
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all the ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- Rubber spatula: This tool is great for gently folding ingredients together without overmixing.
Ingredients
Morning Glory Muffins are a healthy, easy breakfast! Packed with veggies, you’ll love having these on hand.
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 (175°C). Line muffin tins with paper liners to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the sugar, flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, coconut, and walnuts. Ensure everything is well combined.
2. Add in the grated zucchini and grated carrot. Stir until mixed evenly.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Create a well in the center of your dry mixture:
1. In another bowl, whisk together the remaining wet ingredients: the applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, avocado oil, and vanilla extract.
2. Pour this mixture into the well you’ve created in the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Mix Together
Using a rubber spatula:
1. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep muffins tender.
Step 5: Bake
Scoop your batter into prepared muffin tins:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool & Store
After baking:
1. Allow muffins to cool in the pan for about 7 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
2. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.
Enjoy your delicious Morning Glory Muffins!
How to Serve Morning Glory Muffins
Morning Glory Muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or a light dessert, these muffins pair well with many accompaniments.
With Fresh Fruit
- Add a side of seasonal fruits like berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing touch and added nutrients.
Spread with Nut Butter
- A layer of almond or peanut butter on top enhances flavor and adds healthy fats, making the muffins even more satisfying.
Enjoy with Yogurt
- Serve alongside Greek yogurt for a protein boost. This combination makes for a balanced breakfast or snack option.
Pair with Coffee or Tea
- Morning Glory Muffins make an excellent companion to your favorite hot beverage, adding warmth and comfort to your morning routine.
Drizzle with Honey
- A light drizzle of honey can elevate the sweetness of the muffins, creating a delightful treat for those who prefer a sweeter palate.
How to Perfect Morning Glory Muffins
Perfecting your Morning Glory Muffins is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they come out deliciously every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and spices enhance flavor and texture in your muffins.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep muffins fluffy and avoid a dense texture.
- Adjust sweetness: Feel free to reduce sugar if you prefer less sweetness or substitute with natural sweeteners.
- Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding raisins or dried cranberries for extra flavor and chewiness.
- Cool properly: Allow muffins to cool in the pan briefly before transferring them to a rack; this helps maintain their shape.
- Store correctly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer storage without compromising quality.
Best Side Dishes for Morning Glory Muffins
Adding side dishes can elevate your Morning Glory Muffins experience. Here are some great options that pair well:
- Greek Yogurt – A creamy addition that adds protein and pairs well with muffin flavors.
- Cottage Cheese – Offers a savory contrast; serve it plain or with fruit for extra taste.
- Smoothie – Blend your favorite fruits and greens for a refreshing drink alongside your muffins.
- Scrambled Eggs – A hearty source of protein that balances the sweetness of the muffins perfectly.
- Avocado Toast – Rich in healthy fats, this dish complements the muffins while keeping breakfast light.
- Oatmeal – Warm oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit can create a wholesome breakfast spread alongside the muffins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Morning Glory Muffins can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the Grating: Not grating the zucchini and carrots properly can affect texture. Always grate them finely and wring out excess moisture.
- Measuring Ingredients Incorrectly: Using too much or too little flour or sugar can throw off the balance. Use measuring cups properly and level off dry ingredients.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense muffins. Stir just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: An inaccurate oven temperature means uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at 350°F as required.
- Not Cooling Properly: Allowing muffins to cool in the pan for too long can make them soggy. Transfer them to a cooling rack after 7 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Morning Glory Muffins
- Freeze muffins for up to 2 months.
- Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Morning Glory Muffins
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place muffins on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds per muffin, checking for desired warmth.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Morning Glory Muffins:
Can I use different nuts in the Morning Glory Muffins?
Yes! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds according to your preference.
How can I make my Morning Glory Muffins vegan?
Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based yogurt instead of applesauce.
What toppings pair well with Morning Glory Muffins?
Cream cheese or Greek yogurt adds a delightful creamy texture that complements these muffins beautifully.
Are Morning Glory Muffins healthy?
Absolutely! They are packed with fruits and vegetables, making them a nutritious breakfast choice.
Final Thoughts
Morning Glory Muffins are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits. With their healthy ingredients, they make an excellent start to your day. Try them today and enjoy a cozy breakfast experience!
Morning Glory Muffins
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Morning Glory Muffins are a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients that transform your breakfast into a delicious and nutritious experience. Packed with shredded zucchini, carrots, and coconut, these muffins are not only tasty but also provide essential nutrients to kickstart your day. Their sweet flavors make them a hit with kids and adults alike, making them perfect for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, or as an energizing snack throughout the day. With just 20 minutes of prep time and the ability to freeze well for later enjoyment, these muffins are as convenient as they are wholesome.
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 (wrung out)
- 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 oven to 350°F (175°C) and line muffin tins with paper liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, coconut, and walnuts until well combined.
- Fold in the grated zucchini and carrots until mixed evenly.
- In another bowl, whisk together applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, avocado oil, and vanilla extract. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
- Gently mix using a rubber spatula until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep muffins fluffy.
- Fill muffin tins with batter and bake for about 25-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Allow muffins to cool in the pan for about 7 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
