Morning Glory Muffins

Morning Glory Muffins are a delightful and nutritious way to kick-start your day! These muffins combine the goodness of veggies and fruits, making them an ideal breakfast for busy mornings or a wholesome snack. With their moist texture and sweet flavor, they are perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or even as a quick treat on the go. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare, and they offer a wonderful blend of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with zucchini, carrots, and applesauce, these muffins provide essential nutrients.
• Quick Preparation: In just 45 minutes total, you can whip up a batch of 21 delicious muffins.
• Freezer-Friendly: Store them in your freezer for up to 2 months; just thaw when you’re ready to enjoy!
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and maple syrup adds a warm sweetness that appeals to all ages.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or dried fruits for an extra twist!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on these delicious Morning Glory Muffins, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Paper liners
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Essential for shaping your muffins and ensuring even baking.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients together without overmixing the batter.

Ingredients

Morning Glory Muffins are a healthy, easy breakfast! Packed with veggies, you’ll love having these on hand.

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 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 aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
* Whisk together sugar, flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, coconut, and walnuts until combined.
* Add in the grated zucchini and carrot. Stir well.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Create a well in the center of the dry mixture:
1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients—applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, avocado oil, and vanilla extract.
2. Pour the wet mixture into the well you’ve created in the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Using a rubber spatula:
* Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay!

Step 5: Fill Muffin Tins

Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tins:
* Fill each liner about two-thirds full.

Step 6: Bake

Place in the preheated oven:
* Bake for about 25–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool Down

After baking:
* Allow muffins to cool in pans for about 7 minutes.
* Transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Storing Your Muffins

Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months. Enjoy your delicious Morning Glory Muffins anytime!

How to Serve Morning Glory Muffins

Morning Glory Muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast or a snack, these muffins pair well with several accompaniments. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas: Add a fresh touch by serving with sliced bananas for a potassium boost.
• Mixed Berries: Pair them with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a colorful and healthy side.

With Spreads

• Cream Cheese: A light spread of cream cheese adds a creamy texture that complements the muffins’ flavors.
• Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter provides a nutty flavor and extra protein.

As a Part of a Breakfast Platter

• Yogurt Parfait: Serve alongside Greek yogurt layered with granola and fruit for a wholesome breakfast.
• Smoothies: A refreshing smoothie can balance the hearty texture of the muffins perfectly.

With Beverages

• Herbal Tea: Enjoy your muffins with a warm cup of herbal tea for a cozy experience.
• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee pairs beautifully with the spices in Morning Glory Muffins.

How to Perfect Morning Glory Muffins

To ensure your Morning Glory Muffins turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices can make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the muffins tender and fluffy.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring cups to ensure you have the right proportions for the best texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer can help maintain accurate baking temperatures for even results.
• Cool Properly: Allowing muffins to cool on a rack prevents soggy bottoms and enhances their texture.

Best Side Dishes for Morning Glory Muffins

Pairing your Morning Glory Muffins with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: Creamy yogurt adds protein and pairs well with the muffin’s sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and enhances your breakfast experience.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein, making your meal more balanced.
4. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal complements the muffin’s flavors while adding fiber.
5. Chia Pudding: This nutritious pudding makes for an excellent, healthful pairing packed with omega-3s.
6. Avocado Toast: The richness of avocado toast brings another layer of taste that goes well with the muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Morning Glory Muffins can be straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using Wet Ingredients Directly – Not wringing out the zucchini can make muffins soggy. Always remove excess moisture before mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter – Mixing too much can lead to dense muffins. Stir until just combined for a light texture.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature – An oven that’s too hot or too cool affects baking time. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Skipping the Cooling Time – Not allowing muffins to cool before storage can cause sogginess. Let them cool completely on a rack.
• Using Stale Ingredients – Old baking soda or flour can ruin your muffins. Always check expiration dates for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep muffins at room temperature if consumed quickly; otherwise, refrigeration helps maintain freshness.

Freezing Morning Glory Muffins

• Freeze muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Morning Glory Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm muffins for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time for about 15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Morning Glory Muffins that may help you enjoy this recipe even more.

Can I customize Morning Glory Muffins?

Yes! You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to make them your own. Experiment with flavors!

How do I know when my muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready!

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.

What other vegetables can I add to Morning Glory Muffins?

Consider adding grated sweet potatoes or even finely chopped spinach for extra nutrition!

Final Thoughts

Morning Glory Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. With their combination of veggies and wholesome ingredients, they make for a nutritious breakfast option. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins and enjoy having these tasty treats on hand!