Waking up to the aroma of freshly baked morning glory muffins is pure bliss. These wholesome treats, packed with carrots, apples, raisins, nuts, and coconut, are a delightful way to kickstart your day. A classic bakery favorite, these muffins are not only delicious but also a sneaky way to incorporate veggies into your breakfast routine.
My go-to morning glory muffin recipe is a hearty and flavorful combination that never fails to impress. With a perfect balance of sweetness and a moist, tender texture, these muffins are a nostalgic reminder of cozy mornings and comforting flavors. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a convenient snack on-the-go, these muffins are a must-try for anyone looking to add a nutritious twist to their baking repertoire.
Ingredients
Creating Morning Glory Muffins involves a variety of wholesome ingredients that come together to make a delightful treat. Here are the main components and optional add-ins for this nutritious and flavorful recipe:
Main Components
- 2 cups (260g) whole wheat flour, spooned and leveled
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup (35g) ground flaxseed (optional)
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (85g) honey
- 1/3 cup (80ml) vegetable oil (canola oil or melted coconut oil)
- 1/3 cup (60g) unsweetened smooth applesauce
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
- 1/3 cup (80ml) orange juice or pineapple juice
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups (260g) shredded carrots (about 4 large)
- 1 cup (140g) shredded/grated apple (about 1 large)
- 1/2 cup (75g) raisins
- 1/2 cup (64g) unsalted chopped pecans
- Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
- Replace raisins with dried cranberries for a tangy twist.
- For a nut-free option, omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
- Swap the vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
- Try using maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness level.
- Incorporate chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch.
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of applesauce.
Equipment Needed
To prepare these delightful morning glory muffins, you’ll need some basic kitchen equipment that you likely already have on hand. Here’s a simple list of tools and equipment needed to make the baking process smooth and efficient:
- Muffin tin: Ensure you have a 12-count standard-sized muffin tin to bake the muffins.
- Mixing bowls: Have both small and large mixing bowls ready for combining the wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk or spoon: A whisk or spoon will be handy for mixing the ingredients together evenly.
- Grater: You’ll need a grater to shred the carrots and apples for the muffins.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate amounts of ingredients.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for baking the muffins.
- Cooking spray: Lightly mist the muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cooling rack: Plan to transfer the muffins to a cooling rack after baking to cool properly.
Preparation Steps
Prepping Ingredients
To start preparing these delicious morning glory muffins, make sure you have all your ingredients ready and measured. Shred the carrots, grate the apple, and chop the walnuts, ensuring everything is prepped and set aside for easy assembly.
Pre-Heating the Oven
Before diving into mixing the batter, pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This step ensures that your muffins bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color. Make sure your oven is ready to go before starting to mix your ingredients.
Baking Instructions
Mixing the Batter
In a medium bowl, I combine the wet ingredients – eggs, egg whites, apple butter, oil, and vanilla – whisking them together until smooth. Then, in a separate large bowl, I stir together the dry ingredients – flours, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. I gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. Following that, I add in the shredded carrots, apples, and raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Filling the Muffin Cups
Using a spoon, I fill the prepared muffin cups about 3/4 full with the batter. I aim to distribute the batter equally among the muffin cups to ensure uniform baking. Optionally, I sprinkle a mixture of walnuts and wheat germ over the tops of the muffins before they go into the oven.
Baking Time and Temperature
I preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) before placing the filled muffin tin inside. The muffins bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes until the tops turn golden and spring back when lightly pressed. It’s essential to monitor the baking time closely to achieve perfectly baked morning glory muffins.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
Once your morning glory muffins are out of the oven and cooling on the rack, it’s time to think about serving and presentation. Here are some ideas to make your muffins even more delightful:
1. Garnishing:
Sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or powdered sugar on top of the muffins for a final touch of sweetness and a visually appealing presentation.
2. Pairing:
Morning glory muffins are perfect on their own, but you can elevate your breakfast spread by serving them with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added texture and flavor contrast.
3. Plating:
Consider serving your muffins on a beautiful ceramic platter or a rustic wooden board to enhance their visual appeal and create an inviting presentation.
4. Storage and Reheating:
Morning glory muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, simply reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a toaster oven for a crispy exterior.
5. Gift Giving:
If you’re planning to share your morning glory muffins with friends or family, consider wrapping them in colorful parchment paper or placing them in a decorative box for a lovely homemade gift idea.
By paying attention to these serving and presentation ideas, you can take your morning glory muffins to the next level and impress your guests with both the taste and visual appeal of these delicious and nutritious treats.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
After baking a batch of these delicious morning glory muffins, you may find yourself wondering about the best way to store or freeze them for future enjoyment. Here are some tips to help you keep your muffins fresh and tasty:
Storage Tips:
- Allow the muffins to cool completely before storing them.
- Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
- If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate the muffins for up to a week. Make sure to seal them well to prevent them from drying out.
- To maintain their moistness, you can add a slice of bread or a damp paper towel to the container when storing them.
- If you want to freeze your morning glory muffins for later, make sure they have cooled down entirely.
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container for added protection.
- Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Frozen muffins can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months without compromising taste or texture.
These storage and freezing tips will help you enjoy your morning glory muffins at their best, whether you savor them right away or save some for another day.
Tips for Perfect Morning Glory Muffins
To ensure your morning glory muffins turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips to enhance your baking experience:
1. Room Temperature Ingredients:
Using room temperature ingredients, especially eggs, allows them to mix more evenly into the batter, resulting in a better texture for your muffins.
2. Proper Mixing Technique:
Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough muffins.
3. Freshly Grated Carrots and Apples:
Grate your carrots and apples fresh for the best flavor and texture. Pre-packaged or store-bought grated produce may be too dry and affect the moisture in your muffins.
4. Adjusting Sweetness:
Feel free to adjust the sweetness level by tweaking the amount of honey or brown sugar according to your preference.
5. Flavor Enhancements:
Experiment with adding ingredients like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruits to customize the flavors of your morning glory muffins.
6. Baking Time Accuracy:
Keep a close eye on your muffins while baking to prevent overcooking. Use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness—moist crumbs clinging to it indicate perfectly baked muffins.
By following these tips, you can elevate your morning glory muffins to perfection, making them a delightful and satisfying treat for any time of day.
Conclusion
Morning glory muffins are a delightful treat that combines nutrition and flavor effortlessly. By following the detailed recipe and incorporating the suggested tips, you can create these delicious muffins with ease. Experimenting with different ingredients and flavor enhancements allows for a personalized touch to suit your taste preferences. Remember to keep an eye on the baking time to achieve the perfect texture and taste. With proper techniques and attention to detail, your morning glory muffins will become a go-to option for a satisfying snack or breakfast. Don’t forget the storage and freezing tips to enjoy these muffins for an extended period. Embrace the versatility of morning glory muffins and make them a staple in your baking repertoire.