Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing just until everything is blended—be careful not to overmix!
- Gently fold in the grated carrots, grated apple, crushed pineapple, walnuts or pecans, shredded coconut, and raisins, ensuring all flavors are evenly distributed.
- Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, checking with a toothpick, which should come out clean when they are done.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
Morning Glory Muffins shine on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. Pair them with a light fruit salad or yogurt for a refreshing breakfast. For a delightful afternoon snack, enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee. You could also pack them in lunch boxes for a nutritious treat!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Mourning Glory Muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them where they can last for a week. For extended storage, freeze the muffins in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up.
Helpful cooking tips
For moist muffins, ensure you don’t overmix the batter. A few lumps are perfectly fine! Consider grating the carrots and apples just before use to keep them fresh and vibrant. If you want an added hint of sweetness or flavor, try adding a handful of chocolate chips or a dash of orange zest to the mix.
Creative twists
Feel free to get inventive with your Morning Glory Muffins! Consider using different types of nuts or dried fruits, like cranberries in place of raisins. Want a healthier alternative? You could substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free flour blend. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices, too; cardamom or ginger could introduce a delightful flavor!
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare these muffins?
The overall preparation and cooking time for Morning Glory Muffins is about 30-35 minutes, making them a quick option for busy mornings.
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day ahead and refrigerate it, or bake the muffins and store them for a few days, as detailed above.
What can I substitute if I don’t have certain ingredients?
If you’re missing nuts, you can simply exclude them or replace them with seeds. No pineapple on hand? Applesauce is a great, moist alternative!
Creating Morning Glory Muffins is not just a baking task but a joyful experience that fills your home with warmth and happiness. Enjoy every bite!
