Morning Glory Muffins: A Deliciously Healthy Treat
Morning glory muffins are a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients and irresistible flavors. These muffins are not your average breakfast treat; they're packed with nutritious elements like shredded carrots, zucchini, nuts, and raisins, making them a guilt-free indulgence. This recipe will guide you through creating these delectable muffins, perfect for a wholesome breakfast, a satisfying snack, or even a delightful addition to a brunch spread.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 12 standard-sized muffins. Adjust quantities as needed for your baking needs.
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Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil for a richer flavor)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar (you can reduce this for a less sweet muffin)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (consider using whole wheat flour for added fiber)
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
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The "Morning Glory" Mix:
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup shredded zucchini (removing excess moisture helps with texture)
- ½ cup raisins (or chopped dates for a different sweetness profile)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (or a mix of your favorite nuts)
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional, but adds a lovely texture and flavor)
Instructions for Baking Delightful Muffins:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of sugar remaining.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Thoroughly combining the dry ingredients ensures even leavening.
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Add the "Morning Glory" Magic: Gently fold in the shredded carrots, zucchini, raisins, nuts, and coconut (if using) into the wet ingredients. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Again, avoid overmixing.
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Fill the Muffin Cups: Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full. This allows for proper rising during baking.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary.
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Cool and Enjoy: Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
Tips for the Perfect Morning Glory Muffin:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough muffins.
- Use fresh ingredients: Freshly grated carrots and zucchini will provide the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: Reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet muffin.
- Get creative with add-ins: Feel free to experiment with other fruits, nuts, or seeds. Cranberries, blueberries, or sunflower seeds are all delicious options.
- Store properly: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Enjoy your homemade morning glory muffins! They're a perfect way to start your day or enjoy a healthy snack anytime. Remember to share this recipe with your friends and family – everyone deserves a taste of these delightful muffins.
