Best Morning Glory Muffins

My favorite Best Morning Glory Muffins are a delightful way to start your day! These muffins are not only healthy and hearty, but they are also bursting with flavor. Loaded with shredded carrots, apples, raisins, nuts, and coconut, they provide a wonderful texture that makes them irresistible. Plus, this recipe is vegan-friendly since it doesn’t contain eggs. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack any time of the day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutritious components like whole grains and fruits.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make these muffins a breeze to whip up.
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy without eggs or dairy—great for various dietary needs.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a unique taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect warm from the oven or at room temperature.

Tools and Preparation

To create the Best Morning Glory Muffins, having the right tools is essential. Below is a list of must-have items for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Ensures even baking and perfect portion sizes for each muffin.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy combining of wet and dry ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps to blend ingredients efficiently, ensuring a light and airy batter.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/4 cups (150g) whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup (159g) brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 2 teaspoons baking soda
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/2 cup (114ml) coconut oil (melted)
– 1 large apple (shredded)
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups grated carrot (about 3 medium)
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup flaked coconut
– 1/3 cup walnuts (chopped)

How to Make Best Morning Glory Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a muffin tin with paper liners and set it aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Add the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt.
2. Whisk well to combine all the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In the same bowl:
1. Add in the unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, shredded apple, and vanilla extract.
2. Whisk just until combined; do not overmix.

Step 4: Fold in Remaining Ingredients

Gently fold in:
– Grated carrots
– Raisins
– Flaked coconut
– Chopped walnuts

Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 5: Bake the Muffins

Divide the batter evenly among prepared muffin cups.
1. Bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes.
2. Reduce heat to 350 degrees and bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Cool muffins in the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Enjoy your delicious Best Morning Glory Muffins!

How to Serve Best Morning Glory Muffins

Best Morning Glory Muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these muffins are versatile and pair well with many accompaniments.

Classic Coffee Pairing

• Coffee: Enjoy your muffins with a fresh cup of coffee. The rich flavor complements the sweetness of the muffins perfectly.

Fruit Spread Delight

• Jam or Jelly: Spread some homemade or store-bought fruit jam on top for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.

Nutty Twist

• Nut Butter: A dollop of almond or peanut butter adds protein and richness, making your muffin even more satisfying.

Fresh Fruit Side

• Sliced Fruits: Serve with seasonal fruits like berries or banana slices for a refreshing contrast to the hearty muffin.

Yogurt Fusion

• Greek Yogurt: Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt topped with honey for a creamy, tangy addition that enhances the muffin’s flavors.

Salad Addition

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad can be a great side. The crunchiness of greens balances the muffin’s texture beautifully.

How to Perfect Best Morning Glory Muffins

To ensure you achieve the best results with your Best Morning Glory Muffins, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh carrots and apples. This enhances flavor and moisture in your muffins.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the ingredients. Overmixing can make muffins dense instead of fluffy.
• Check Doneness Early: Ovens can vary; start checking your muffins a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time.
• Cool Completely: Allow muffins to cool on a wire rack before storing. This prevents sogginess and extends their freshness.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize by adding different nuts or seeds to suit your taste preferences.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Best Morning Glory Muffins

These muffins can be enhanced by serving them alongside complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness next to your muffins.
2. Chia Pudding: Creamy chia pudding provides a nutritious balance with its fiber and protein content.
3. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with granola offers crunch and nutrition, rounding out your meal nicely.
4. Avocado Toast: A slice of whole-grain avocado toast boosts healthy fats and makes for a filling breakfast experience.
5. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars offer an easy grab-and-go option while complementing the muffin’s flavors.
6. Cottage Cheese: A side of cottage cheese delivers protein and pairs well with the sweetness of the muffins.
7. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea adds soothing elements, perfect for a cozy morning routine.
8. Oatmeal: A small bowl of oatmeal rounds out breakfast, adding heartiness alongside those delightful muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Morning Glory Muffins can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the whisking step: Failing to whisk the dry ingredients thoroughly can lead to uneven flavor and texture. Always ensure everything is well mixed before adding wet ingredients.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your muffins dense and tough. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold applesauce or coconut oil can affect how well the batter comes together. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
• Ignoring baking times: Baking too long can result in dry muffins. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early using a toothpick.
• Not letting them cool properly: Cooling muffins in the pan can make them soggy. Transfer them to a wire rack after just five minutes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Best Morning Glory Muffins

• Freeze muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Best Morning Glory Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap muffins in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin on high for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a muffin in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Best Morning Glory Muffins.

Can I substitute the flour in this recipe?

You can use gluten-free flour blends as an alternative, but ensure they contain xanthan gum for better texture.

Are these muffins vegan?

Yes! The Best Morning Glory Muffins are vegan-friendly as they do not contain any eggs or dairy products.

How do I make these muffins nut-free?

Simply omit walnuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch without nuts.

Can I add other fruits or veggies?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like shredded zucchini, pineapple, or even different types of dried fruits.

Final Thoughts

These Best Morning Glory Muffins are not only healthy but also versatile and delicious! With their hearty mix of fruits and vegetables, they provide a nutritious start to your day. Experiment with different mix-ins, such as nuts or spices, to create your perfect muffin blend. Enjoy baking!