Morning Glory Muffins

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of fresh-baked muffins wafting through the kitchen, and these Morning Glory Muffins are no exception. Bursting with vibrant flavors and a delightful texture, they are the perfect blend of sweet and wholesome. Each bite offers a wonderful combination of shredded carrots, sweet pineapple, chewy raisins, and nutty walnuts, all wrapped up in a soft, golden-brown muffin. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a midday snack, or even a sweet treat, these muffins are sure to brighten your day!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup applesauce
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield: 12 muffins

Directions and Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well blended and fluffy.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable oil, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are smooth and cohesive.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
  5. Gently fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, raisins, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. Divide the batter among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds of the way full to allow for rising.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
  8. Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes or Tips

  • Feel free to customize your muffins! Add in some chopped apples or swap out raisins for dried cranberries for a twist.
  • If you prefer a less sweet muffin, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar slightly.
  • For a delightful crunch, try toasting the walnuts before adding them to the batter.

Cooking Techniques

Mixing wet and dry ingredients separately helps create a light and fluffy muffin texture. Avoid overmixing; it’s okay to leave some lumps in the batter. This will keep your muffins tender and moist. Also, be sure to let them cool slightly in the pan to help them pull away effortlessly from the liners.

FAQ

Can I make these muffins ahead of time? Yes! These muffins store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap them individually in plastic wrap before freezing.

Can I substitute the eggs? Absolutely! You can try using flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for a vegan version. Use 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water to replace one egg, or simply increase the amount of applesauce for a delicious alternative.

Conclusion

These Morning Glory Muffins are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a colorful and nutritious choice to start your day. They combine the best of sweet and savory, with a hint of tropical flavor that makes every bite a delight. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or packed in your lunch box, they are sure to be a new family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and let the baking fun begin! Your kitchen will thank you for it!

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