Picture this: a warm, fluffy muffin packed with the goodness of apples, carrots, nuts, and warm spices. Sounds like the perfect breakfast, right? That’s exactly what Morning Glory Muffins bring to the table. These muffins combine the best of Apple Carrot Muffins, Zucchini Muffins, and even the comforting taste of Pumpkin Muffins. They’re moist, naturally sweet, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for an on-the-go breakfast or an afternoon snack.
If you love baking and experimenting with flavors, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. Whether you’re a fan of Cranberry Orange Muffins or crave indulgent Double Chocolate Muffins, these muffins strike the perfect balance between health and flavor. But before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore where these wholesome muffins originated and how to pick the best ingredients to make them at home.
Place of Origin of Morning Glory Muffins
Morning Glory Muffins have a history as rich as their flavor. They were first baked in the 1970s by Pam McKinstry, a talented chef from Nantucket, Massachusetts. She created these muffins for her famous Morning Glory Café, which quickly became known for its hearty, nutritious, and flavorful baked goods.
At the time, health-conscious eaters were on the rise, and people wanted breakfast options that were both delicious and packed with nutrients. Pam’s muffins hit the sweet spot—literally! They were an instant hit, with their perfect mix of whole grains, natural sweetness, and crunchy add-ins. In fact, the recipe became so popular that it was featured in Gourmet magazine in 1981, sealing its place as a beloved classic.
Tips for Selecting High-Quality Ingredients
To make the best Morning Glory Muffins, you need the best ingredients. Quality matters! So, let’s break down what to look for when shopping for your ingredients.
Choosing Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
- Apples: Go for crisp, naturally sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady. They add moisture and natural sweetness.
- Carrots: Use fresh, organic carrots if possible. Grate them finely so they distribute evenly in the batter.
- Zucchini (Optional): If you love the moist texture of Zucchini Muffins, add a little shredded zucchini for an extra veggie boost.
Picking the Right Flour and Sweeteners
- Whole Wheat Flour: This adds a nutty flavor and increases fiber content.
- Almond Flour: If you want a gluten-free option, almond flour works great and keeps the muffins tender.
- Natural Sweeteners: Instead of refined sugar, opt for honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a healthier touch.
Best Nuts, Seeds, and Spices to Use
- Nuts: Walnuts and pecans add crunch and richness.
- Seeds: Chia or flaxseeds give an extra nutrient boost.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg create that warm, comforting aroma.
How to Make Morning Glory Muffins
Now that we have our fresh, high-quality ingredients ready, let’s move on to the best part—the baking! Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 cup grated apple
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
- ¾ cup brown sugar or honey
- ½ cup coconut oil or melted butter
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk (or almond milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Before we start mixing, let’s prep everything:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
- Grate the carrots and apples. If you’re using zucchini, shred it finely.
- Chop the walnuts or pecans if they’re not pre-chopped.
Step 2: Mixing the Wet and Dry Ingredients
In one large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients: eggs, sweetener (brown sugar or honey), coconut oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is combined.
Now, slowly add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring just enough to incorporate them. Overmixing can make your muffins dense, and we want them light and fluffy!
Step 3: Folding in the Extras
Here’s where the magic happens! Gently fold in the grated carrots, apples, nuts, and dried fruits. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
Step 4: Baking the Muffins
- Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full to allow room for rising.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
And there you have it—fresh, homemade Morning Glory Muffins that smell as amazing as they taste! Now, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about these delightful treats.
FAQs About Morning Glory Muffins
What is a Morning Glory Muffin made of?
A Morning Glory Muffin is packed with wholesome, nutritious ingredients that make it both delicious and satisfying. The base is usually made with whole wheat flour, giving it a hearty texture. The muffins are then filled with grated carrots, apples, raisins, walnuts, coconut, eggs, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Some variations include shredded zucchini or pumpkin for extra moisture and nutrition. The combination of these ingredients creates a naturally sweet, moist, and flavorful muffin that’s perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack.
What’s the healthiest muffin to eat?
The healthiest muffins are those made with whole grains, natural sweeteners, and nutrient-dense ingredients. Morning Glory Muffins rank high on the list because they are rich in fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats. If you’re looking for other healthy muffin options, you can try:
- Apple Carrot Muffins – Loaded with fiber and natural sweetness from apples and carrots.
- Oat Bran Muffins – A great choice for those needing extra fiber.
- Pumpkin Muffins – Packed with beta-carotene and warm autumn spices.
- Zucchini Muffins – Moist and nutrient-rich with hidden veggies.
To make muffins even healthier, you can reduce added sugar, use healthy fats like coconut oil, and add nutrient-boosting extras like flaxseeds or chia seeds.
What are the ingredients in Farmers Market Morning Glory Muffins?
Farmers Market Morning Glory Muffins follow a similar recipe but often feature seasonal, fresh produce and locally sourced ingredients. They typically include:
- Whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Grated carrots and apples for natural sweetness.
- Raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity burst.
- Walnuts or pecans for crunch and healthy fats.
- Honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener.
- Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Some variations may also include pumpkin puree, shredded coconut, or sunflower seeds to enhance the texture and flavor.
What was the original Morning Glory?
The original Morning Glory Muffin was created in the late 1970s by Pam McKinstry, the owner of the Morning Glory Café in Nantucket, Massachusetts. Her goal was to develop a muffin that was not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep customers full and energized. The original recipe included whole wheat flour, grated carrots, apples, raisins, nuts, and coconut, which have remained staples in the modern version of this muffin. Since then, the recipe has evolved, with many bakers adding their own creative twists to suit different dietary needs and taste preferences.
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Conclusion
Morning Glory Muffins are the ultimate balance of flavor, nutrition, and texture. With a mix of wholesome ingredients like apples, carrots, nuts, and warm spices, they’re a delightful way to start your day. Whether you’re a fan of classic Muffins, comforting Apple Crisp, or indulgent treats like Double Chocolate Muffins, these muffins offer something for everyone.
Plus, they’re super versatile—you can customize them with different add-ins like pumpkin, zucchini, or extra fruits to suit your taste. So why not try baking a batch today? Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll have a healthy, satisfying treat ready for breakfast or a quick snack on the go.
Explore More Recipes Similar to Morning Glory Muffins
If you’re a fan of Morning Glory Muffins, you’ll enjoy these similar recipes from Easy Global Recipes. Each one offers wholesome, flavorful options for breakfast, snacks, or dessert with a healthy twist.
1. High-Fiber Apple Cranberry Baked Oats
High-Fiber Apple Cranberry Baked Oats
- Packed with the natural sweetness of apples and tangy cranberries, this baked oat dish is a fiber-rich and satisfying breakfast.
2. Spinach Mushroom Quiche
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3. Strawberry Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
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4. Easy and Healthy Banana Bread Baked Oats
Easy and Healthy Banana Bread Baked Oats
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5. Brownie Batter Overnight Oats
- For chocolate lovers, this indulgent overnight oats recipe delivers rich flavor without compromising on nutrition.
These recipes provide a delicious variety of healthy options, similar in their use of nutritious ingredients and balanced flavors. Try one today and expand your collection of wholesome treats!
PrintMorning Glory Muffins
Morning Glory Muffins are a wholesome and flavorful breakfast treat packed with apples, carrots, nuts, raisins, and warm spices. These muffins are moist, naturally sweet, and perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast on the go.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 cup grated apple
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
- ¾ cup brown sugar or honey
- ½ cup coconut oil or melted butter
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk (or almond milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
- Prepare the ingredients: Grate the carrots and apples. If using nuts, chop them finely.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, sweetener (brown sugar or honey), coconut oil, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the mix-ins: Gently fold in the grated carrots, apples, nuts, and dried fruits.
- Bake the muffins: Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the muffins to cool for 5 minutes in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container.
Notes
- These muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerated for up to a week, or frozen for up to 3 months.
- You can swap whole wheat flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
- Maple syrup or honey can be used as a natural sweetener instead of refined sugar.
- Add ¼ cup of shredded zucchini for extra moisture and nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Morning Glory Muffins, Healthy Muffins, Apple Carrot Muffins, Zucchini Muffins, Pumpkin Muffins, Easy Muffins Recipe, Whole Wheat Muffins, Breakfast Muffins, Homemade Muffins, Fiber-Rich Muffins