Morning Glory Muffins

Morning Glory Muffins are a delightful and nutritious way to kickstart your day. These muffins blend the goodness of vegetables and the warmth of spices, making them perfect for breakfast or a midday snack. Packed with grated carrots and zucchini, they offer a unique twist on traditional muffins. Whether you’re prepping for a busy morning or looking for a healthy treat for gatherings, these muffins are sure to impress with their flavor and wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Morning Glory Muffins are rich in vegetables, providing essential nutrients to start your day right.
• Easy to Make: The simple mixing process makes these muffins a breeze to prepare, even for beginner bakers.
• Versatile Options: Customize your muffins by adding different nuts or fruits based on your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and sweet ingredients creates deliciously moist muffins that everyone will enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Morning Glory Muffins requires just a few essential tools that help streamline the baking process. With these tools at hand, you’ll find making these muffins easier than ever.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Muffin tins
• Paper liners

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping the sides of the bowl, ensuring no ingredient is left behind while mixing.
• Muffin tins: Provides uniform shape and size for each muffin, ensuring even baking.

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Ingredients

To create these delicious Morning Glory Muffins, gather the following 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 and set them aside.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. Sugar
2. Flour
3. Cinnamon
4. Baking soda
5. Salt
6. Coconut
7. Walnuts until well combined.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add in the grated zucchini and grated carrots to the dry mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Applesauce
2. Maple syrup
3. Eggs
4. Avocado oil
5. Vanilla extract

Pour this mixture into the well of dry ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the wet mixture into the dry until just combined – be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Bake

Scoop the batter into prepared muffin tins and bake for 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool

Allow muffins to cool in the pan for about 7 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Enjoy your homemade Morning Glory Muffins as a nutritious start to your day!

How to Serve Morning Glory Muffins

Morning Glory Muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you need a quick breakfast or a delightful snack, these muffins fit the bill perfectly. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your muffin experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve your muffins with a side of seasonal fruit like berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing touch.

Spread with Nut Butter

• Top each muffin with almond or peanut butter for added protein and creaminess, enhancing the flavor.

Accompanied by Yogurt

• Pair your muffins with a bowl of yogurt for a balanced meal that includes protein and probiotics.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include them in a brunch buffet alongside other dishes like salads and quiches for an appealing variety.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey over warm muffins can add sweetness and enhance the overall flavor profile.

With Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your muffins alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.

How to Perfect Morning Glory Muffins

To make your Morning Glory Muffins even better, consider these helpful tips. Achieving the perfect texture and flavor is within reach!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh produce like carrots and zucchini for maximum moisture and flavor in your muffins.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined to avoid dense muffins.

• Grate Zucchini Properly: Make sure to wring out excess moisture from grated zucchini so the batter isn’t too wet.

• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the batter before baking; if you prefer sweeter muffins, add a bit more sugar or maple syrup.

• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.

Best Side Dishes for Morning Glory Muffins

Pairing side dishes with your Morning Glory Muffins can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of fruits adds freshness and complements the spices in the muffins.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side that’s rich in protein.
3. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up your favorite fruits with spinach or kale, topped with nuts and seeds for crunch.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy dessert made with plant-based milk is rich in fiber and goes well as a sweet side.
5. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts will enhance the wholesome vibe of your breakfast.
6. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on whole-grain bread offers healthy fats that pair nicely with muffins.
7. Cottage Cheese: High in protein, cottage cheese serves as a great savory contrast to the sweet muffins.
8. Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts provides crunch and healthy fats, making for an easy on-the-go option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Morning Glory Muffins can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes could hinder your results.

• Skipping the Grating Step: Always grate your zucchini and carrots. This helps them blend into the muffin batter, providing moisture without large chunks that may affect the texture.
• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold eggs or other wet ingredients can lead to uneven mixing. Always let them reach room temperature before incorporating.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing the batter too much can lead to dense muffins. Stir until just combined to maintain a light texture.
• Neglecting Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your muffins as they bake. Start checking around 25 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Using Stale Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda and spices are fresh for optimal flavor and rise. Check expiration dates before starting the recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep them at room temperature for best freshness.

Freezing Morning Glory Muffins

• Freeze muffins individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Label the bag with the date for reference.

Reheating Morning Glory Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat muffins for about 10 minutes to regain freshness.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds per muffin until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Morning Glory Muffins.

Can I substitute gluten-free flour in Morning Glory Muffins?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a direct substitute. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

How can I make my Morning Glory Muffins healthier?

Consider reducing sugar or replacing it with natural sweeteners like mashed bananas or additional applesauce.

What variations can I try with Morning Glory Muffins?

You can add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or swap walnuts with pecans for different flavors and textures.

Can I make these muffins vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and use plant-based yogurt instead of applesauce if desired.

Final Thoughts

Morning Glory Muffins are not only nutritious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. They make an excellent breakfast or snack option that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors!