Healthy Apple Carrot Muffins Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful and nutritious treat that both adults and kids will adore, apple carrot muffins are the perfect choice. Also known as Sunshine Muffins or Superhero Muffins, these wholesome delights are a fantastic blend of crunchy apples, sweet carrots, and hearty rolled oats. Packed with fruits and vegetables, these muffins make for an ideal high-fiber breakfast or snack option that will surely please the whole family.

The aroma of these Apple Carrot Muffins baking in the oven is simply irresistible, filling your home with the comforting scents of coconut, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whether you enjoy them as a morning pick-me-up or a midday snack, these muffins are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face with their soft texture and delicious flavors. Originally a family recipe passed down from my sister Nicole, these muffins have been a beloved staple in my household for years, loved by all who try them.

Ingredients

These apple carrot muffins are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a nutritious snack or breakfast. The recipe combines the freshness of apples, and the sweetness of carrots, creating a high-fiber treat loved by both adults and kids.

For the Muffins

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup white whole wheat flour or whole wheat pastry flour
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup coconut sugar or pure maple syrup
• 1½ cups finely shredded carrots
• 2 large tart apples, grated (Pink Lady, Fuji, or Granny Smith)
• ½ cup raisins
• ¾ cup shredded coconut
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• 3 lightly beaten eggs
• ½ cup coconut oil
• 1 cup + 1 Tbsp Unsweetened applesauce
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

No glaze is included in this recipe.

Equipment Needed

To prepare these delightful Apple Carrot Muffins, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools to make the baking process a breeze. Here’s a list of essential equipment you’ll need before getting started:

• Muffin Tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin to bake the muffins evenly.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl to combine all the dry and wet ingredients.
• Grater: A box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment to shred the carrots and apples.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of all the ingredients.
• Whisk: To beat the eggs and mix the wet ingredients thoroughly.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For folding in the dry ingredients and mixing the batter.
• Muffin Liners or Cooking Spray: To ensure the muffins don’t stick to the pan.
• Cooling Rack: To cool the muffins after baking.
• Oven: To bake the muffins to golden perfection.

Gathering these essential tools will make the process of baking these Apple Carrot Muffins smooth and enjoyable. Now that you have all the necessary equipment ready, let’s move on to the next steps of preparing these delicious and nutritious muffins.

Preparation

Preparing these apple carrot muffins is a straightforward process that will fill your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas. Let’s start by preheating the oven and preparing the muffin tin.

Line muffin tins with baking cups; set aside.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the muffins inside, allowing them to bake evenly and achieve a perfect golden-brown color. Next, prepare your 12-cup muffin tin by lining it with baking cups. Alternatively, you can grease the muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent the muffins from sticking. Set the prepared muffin tin aside for later use.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of white whole wheat flour or whole wheat pastry flour, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures that they are well combined and free of any lumps, resulting in a smoother muffin batter. After sifting, stir in ½ cup of coconut sugar or pure maple syrup until the mixture is thoroughly blended. The sugar will add sweetness and moisture to the muffins, enhancing their overall flavor and texture.
3. Add 1½ cups of finely shredded carrots, 2 large grated tart apples (such as Pink Lady, Fuji, or Granny Smith), ½ cup of raisins, ¾ cup of shredded coconut, and ½ cup of chopped pecans to the bowl with the dry ingredients. These ingredients will add texture, flavor, and nutritional value to the muffins. The carrots and apples provide moisture and sweetness, while the raisins, coconut, and pecans add chewiness and a delightful crunch.
4. Using a spoon or spatula, stir the mixture until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Ensure that the carrots, apples, raisins, coconut, and pecans are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. This will help ensure that each muffin is packed with flavor and texture.
5. Create a well in the center of the mixture, making enough space to pour in the wet ingredients. This well will help prevent the wet ingredients from spilling out of the bowl as you add them.
6. Pour 3 lightly beaten eggs, ½ cup of coconut oil, 1 cup + 1 tablespoon of unsweetened applesauce, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract into the well. The eggs will bind the ingredients together and add richness to the muffins, while the coconut oil will provide moisture and a subtle coconut flavor. The applesauce will add additional moisture and sweetness, and the vanilla extract will enhance the overall flavor of the muffins.
7. Gently stir the mixture until it is just evenly moist. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in tough muffins. The goal is to combine the wet and dry ingredients until they are just incorporated, leaving a few small lumps in the batter. Finally, add applesauce and stir.
8. Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, carefully spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tins, filling each cup at least ¾ full. Filling the muffin cups to this level will ensure that the muffins rise properly and have a nice rounded top.
9. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it is important to check the muffins periodically to ensure that they do not overbake.
10. Once the muffins are done, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations and Substitutions

As I continue to explore the versatility of apple carrot muffins, there are various ways to customize this wholesome treat to suit your preferences or accommodate dietary needs. Here are some creative variations and substitutions to consider:

Flour Substitutions:

Experiment with different types of flour such as whole wheat pastry flour, almond flour, or gluten-free flour blends for a unique twist on the classic muffin.

Sweeteners:

Swap out the honey or brown sugar with maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar for alternative sweetening options that can cater to different taste preferences.

Oil Choices:

Instead of vegetable oil, try using melted coconut oil, olive oil, or even unsweetened applesauce to adjust the fat content and add a distinct flavor profile.

Nutty Additions:

Enhance the texture and flavor of the muffins by including chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter for a delightful nutty crunch.

Fruit Varieties:

Feel free to mix and match different fruits like raisins, chopped dates, or dried cranberries with the apples and carrots to introduce new flavors and textures to the muffins.

Spice It Up:

Experiment with a variety of spices such as nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom to add depth and complexity to the cinnamon-spiced muffins.

Dairy-Free Options:

For a dairy-free version, substitute the buttermilk with a plant-based alternative like almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk to cater to those with lactose intolerance or vegan preferences.

Egg Replacements:

To make the muffins egg-free, consider using mashed bananas, applesauce, flax eggs, or commercial egg replacers to bind the ingredients together and maintain the moisture in the muffins.

Gluten-Free Adaptations:

For individuals with gluten sensitivities, ensure the baking soda and baking powder used are gluten-free certified, and opt for a gluten-free flour blend to create a delicious gluten-free version of these apple carrot muffins.

By exploring these variations and substitutions, you can truly make these apple carrot muffins your own while still enjoying a delightful and nutritious treat that suits your unique tastes and dietary needs.

Storage and Freezing Tips

After baking a batch of these delicious apple carrot muffins, you may find yourself with leftovers or want to save some for later enjoyment. Proper storage and freezing techniques can help maintain the freshness and taste of your muffins for an extended period. Here are some tips to ensure that your muffins stay delectable:

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Make sure the container is sealed properly to prevent air exposure.
• Refrigeration: If you need to store the muffins for a longer period, place them in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week in the fridge. Allow them to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Freezing: To extend the shelf life of your muffins, freeze them. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Thawing:

When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen muffin, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating:

To enjoy your muffins warm and fresh, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. This will help restore their soft texture and delicious flavors.

By following these storage and freezing tips, you can ensure that your apple carrot muffins remain tasty and ready to enjoy whenever you have a craving for a delightful homemade treat.

Nutritional Information

I always like to know the nutritional content of the recipes I enjoy, so here’s the breakdown for these scrumptious apple carrot muffins:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	240
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	45mg
Sodium	220mg
Total Carbohydrate	35g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	20g
Protein	3g

These apple carrot muffins are a delightful blend of flavors and textures while still being relatively low in calories and providing a moderate amount of essential nutrients. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a wholesome snack, these muffins offer a satisfying treat that’s both delicious and nutritious.

Conclusion

Creating apple carrot muffins is a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful treat. By blending wholesome ingredients like oats, flaxseed, and pecans, these Sunshine or Superhero Muffins offer a satisfying snack or breakfast option. With customizable flour choices, sweeteners, oils, and more, you can tailor these muffins to suit your preferences. Remember to follow storage tips to keep them fresh and tasty. These muffins are not only delicious but also low in calories, providing essential nutrients in each serving. Whether you’re a fan of fruity flavors, nutty textures, or spicy aromas, apple carrot muffins are a versatile and wholesome choice for any time of day.

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