Morning Glory Muffins

Morning Glory Muffins: A Cozy Treat for Every Breakfast Table

There’s something truly magic about mornings that begin with the warm, sweet scent of freshly baked muffins wafting through the house. Perhaps it’s the gentle dance of cinnamon wafting through the air or the golden crunch of walnuts awakening the senses. I can still recall Sundays at my grandmother’s house, surrounded by family, where we’d gather at the kitchen table, eagerly awaiting her Morning Glory Muffins. The way she whisked her ingredients together filled the room with love and comfort, and that ambiance has always stayed with me.

Today, I’m delighted to share a recipe that captures that same cozy spirit: Morning Glory Muffins. Bursting with a zesty medley of vegetables and sweet treats, these muffins are as nutritious as they are delicious. Whether you need a quick breakfast on the go or a delightful brunch addition, this recipe is truly your “easy breakfast option.” This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy mornings, these muffins come together in one bowl in no time.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with carrots, zucchini, and applesauce, they’re a great way to sneak in your daily veggies.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, walnuts, and a hint of sweetness is sure to please everyone’s palate.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze some for those days when you just need a cozy treat.
• Family-Friendly: Great for kids who may not always want their veggies; they won’t even notice them in these delightful muffins.

What You’ll Need

To make these comforting Morning Glory Muffins, gather these simple 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

Let’s make it together! Follow these simple steps for perfect muffins:

1. Preheat your oven to 350° F. Line muffin tins with paper liners and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, coconut, and walnuts until everything is nicely combined.
3. Add in the grated zucchini and carrots, stirring gently to incorporate.
4. Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients and add in the wet ingredients: applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, avocado oil, and vanilla extract.
5. Whisk the wet ingredients together until blended, then slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet using a rubber spatula, mixing until just combined.
6. Scoop the batter into your prepared muffin tins, filling each liner about two-thirds full.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 7 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
9. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months for later enjoyment.

Variations & Creative Twists

• Add Some Zest: For a refreshing twist, add the zest of an orange to your batter – it adds a bright note!
• Chocolate Muffins: Mix in a handful of dark chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent addition that’s perfect for dessert.
• Fruit Fusion: Substitute some of the zucchini for mashed banana or finely chopped apples for a fruity twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Experiment with different nuts, such as pecans or hazelnuts, to mix up the texture and flavors.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Make Ahead: Prepare the dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container for a quick morning assembly.
• Ingredient Swaps: If you’re out of applesauce, mashed banana or yogurt can work well too, keeping the muffins moist.
• Storage: To maintain freshness, store in an airtight container or freeze them in individual portions for easy snacking.
• Perfect Muffin Size: For a standard-sized muffin, ensure to use a 1/4 cup measuring scoop when filling your muffin tins; this ensures an even bake.

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

• Serving Size: 1 muffin
• Calories: 210
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugar: 10g
• Fat: 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 180mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter the night before and bake fresh muffins in the morning.

Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to swap the applesauce for yogurt or use your favorite nuts or dried fruits.

How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

How long does it last?
Properly stored, these muffins can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 2 months in the freezer.

A Cozy Closing Note

These Morning Glory Muffins are more than just a treat; they are filled with joy, warmth, and the nostalgia of shared moments. When you take that first bite, I hope it takes you back to cozy mornings spent with loved ones. Save this Morning Glory Muffins recipe to your breakfast or snacks board so it’s ready when you need a comforting bite! Happy baking, friends!