Morning Glory Muffins

Morning Glory Muffins are a delightful and nutritious choice for breakfast! These muffins combine the goodness of vegetables like zucchini and carrots with the sweetness of applesauce and maple syrup. Perfect for busy mornings or a leisurely brunch, they provide a burst of flavor while being easy to prepare. Enjoy these muffins as a wholesome snack or a grab-and-go option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies, these muffins are not just tasty but also nutritious.
• Easy to Prepare: The simple steps make this recipe accessible for all skill levels.
• Versatile Flavor: With hints of cinnamon and coconut, these muffins offer a unique taste that appeals to everyone.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and store them for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly: The sweet flavors disguise the healthy ingredients, making them perfect for picky eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make it easier to whip up these delicious Morning Glory Muffins.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tins: Essential for shaping your muffins perfectly.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to mix all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the wet ingredients, creating fluffy muffins.

Ingredients

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

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: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the following until combined:
1. Granulated sugar
2. All-purpose flour
3. Cinnamon
4. Baking soda
5. Salt
6. Shredded coconut
7. Chopped walnuts

Add in the grated zucchini and carrots, stirring gently to combine.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Pour this mixture into the well of dry ingredients.

Step 4: Mix Together

Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Muffins

Scoop the batter into your prepared muffin tins. Bake for 25-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Let the muffins cool in their pan for about 7 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

How to Serve Morning Glory Muffins

Morning Glory Muffins are delightful on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas – Add a touch of sweetness and creaminess to your muffins.
• Berries – Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a burst of flavor and freshness.

With Yogurt

• Greek Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, making it even more filling.
• Flavored Yogurt – Try vanilla or honey yogurt for an extra hint of sweetness.

With Nut Butter

• Almond Butter – Spread almond butter on your muffin for a nutty flavor and healthy fats.
• Peanut Butter – Classic peanut butter adds richness and pairs well with the muffins’ spices.

As Part of a Breakfast Platter

• Cheese Slices – Include slices of cheese to balance the sweet flavors with savory notes.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs – Adding protein-rich eggs rounds out your meal nicely.

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How to Perfect Morning Glory Muffins

Achieving the perfect Morning Glory Muffins is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Ensure that your produce is fresh, especially the zucchini and carrots, for maximum moisture and flavor.
• Grate Zucchini and Carrots Finely – Finer grating helps distribute the veggies evenly throughout the batter for better texture.
• Do Not Overmix – Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Check for Doneness Early – Start checking at 25 minutes to prevent overbaking; every oven is different.
• Cool in the Pan Briefly – Let them cool in the pan for 7 minutes before transferring to a rack; this helps maintain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Morning Glory Muffins

Pairing side dishes with your Morning Glory Muffins can enhance your breakfast further. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the muffins.
2. Smoothie Bowl – Blend up your favorite fruits and top them with granola for added crunch.
3. Chia Seed Pudding – This creamy dish offers a nutritious boost alongside your muffins.
4. Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal complements the muffins’ flavors while adding heartiness.
5. Avocado Toast – Creamy avocado spread on whole grain toast makes for a satisfying addition.
6. Scrambled Eggs – The protein from scrambled eggs balances out the sweetness of the muffins perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Morning Glory Muffins can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for the best results.

• Skipping the grating: If you don’t grate the zucchini and carrots properly, they may not blend well into the batter. Always grate them finely and wring out excess moisture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure you add the right amounts of each ingredient.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough muffins. Mix until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Ignoring the baking time: Each oven is different; start checking for doneness at 25 minutes. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Storing improperly: If you store muffins in a damp environment, they can become soggy. Always use airtight containers and keep them in a cool place.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Morning Glory Muffins in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Morning Glory Muffins

• Place muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Ensure they are fully cooled before freezing.

Reheating Morning Glory Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat muffins for about 10 minutes for best texture.
• Microwave: Heat for about 20-30 seconds per muffin; this method keeps them soft but may make them slightly chewy.
• Stovetop: Place a muffin in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Morning Glory Muffins healthy?

Morning Glory Muffins include vegetables like zucchini and carrots, providing vitamins and fiber. They also use less sugar than traditional muffins.

Can I customize my Morning Glory Muffins?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruit based on your preferences. Feel free to experiment!

How do I know when my muffins are done baking?

Check for doneness at around 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs.

What are some good toppings for Morning Glory Muffins?

You can enjoy them plain or add cream cheese frosting, yogurt, or fresh fruit on top for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Morning Glory Muffins are not only healthy but also versatile enough to suit your taste buds. With their delightful blend of flavors and textures, they’re perfect as a breakfast option or snack. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite ingredients!

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Breakfast