Morning Glory Muffins

There’s something undeniably delightful about waking up to the aroma of freshly baked muffins wafting through your kitchen. Morning Glory Muffins are the perfect way to start your day, packed with wholesome ingredients that not only fill your stomach but also nourish your body. These muffins are a delicious blend of fruits, vegetables, and spices, making them a nutritious option for breakfast or a snack. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or as a quick on-the-go treat, these muffins are sure to brighten your morning.

Why I Love This Recipe

What I adore about Morning Glory Muffins is their versatility. Each bite is a burst of flavor thanks to the combination of carrots, pineapple, and coconut. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, which means you can whip up a batch in no time. They’re also a fantastic way to sneak in some extra fruits and veggies into your diet without sacrificing taste. The warm spices add a cozy touch, making these muffins perfect for any season.

Ingredient Checklist

• 2 1/4 cups whole wheat flour
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (I used melted coconut oil)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
• 3 large carrots, shredded (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• Turbinado sugar, for sprinkling on top of the muffins (optional)

Must-Have Equipment

• Mixing bowls: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend the ingredients smoothly.
• Muffin tin: A standard muffin tin will work perfectly.
• Muffin liners: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Grater: For shredding the carrots.

Morning Glory Muffins Made Stepwise

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your muffins bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Line your muffin tin with muffin liners or grease it lightly with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil and eggs until well combined. Add the undrained crushed pineapple, shredded carrots, raisins, and shredded coconut to the mixture. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Tin

Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. If desired, sprinkle a little turbinado sugar on top of each muffin for a delightful crunch.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Morning Glory Muffins warm or at room temperature!

Adaptations for Special Diets

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the whole wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Vegan: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg).
• Lower Sugar: Reduce the granulated sugar to 1/3 cup or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup.
• Nut-Free: Omit any nuts if you’re allergic, or replace with seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

When baking Morning Glory Muffins, it’s crucial to measure your flour accurately. Too much flour can lead to dense muffins. Use the spoon-and-level method for best results. Also, make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined; overmixing can result in tough muffins.

Prep Ahead & Store

These Morning Glory Muffins can be made ahead of time and stored for a quick breakfast option. They’ll stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

Common Qs About Morning Glory Muffins

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Just make sure to finely chop it and drain any excess juice to avoid making the batter too wet.

What can I substitute for raisins?

If you’re not a fan of raisins, feel free to use dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips for a sweet twist!

Can I add nuts to the muffins?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch and flavor to the muffins. Just be mindful of any nut allergies.

How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready to come out of the oven!

Desserts to Finish

• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
• Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Easy Vegan Brownies

Next Steps

Now that you’ve got this delicious and nutritious recipe for Morning Glory Muffins, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! Remember, these muffins are not just for breakfast; they make a great snack any time of the day. Try customizing them with your favorite add-ins, and enjoy the delightful flavors that make these muffins a beloved staple in many kitchens. Happy baking!