# Morning Glory Muffins: A Wholesome and Delicious Breakfast Treat
Morning Glory Muffins are a classic breakfast favorite, packed with wholesome ingredients like carrots, apples, coconut, and raisins. These muffins are not only delicious but also nutritious, making them the perfect way to start your day. Whether you’re looking for a grab-and-go breakfast, a healthy snack, or a treat to share with friends and family, these muffins are sure to satisfy.
In this article, we’ll explore the recipe in detail, share tips for success, discuss creative variations, and provide storage and serving suggestions. Let’s dive in!
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## **The Recipe: Morning Glory Muffins**
### **Ingredients**
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
– 2 tsp baking soda
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– ½ tsp salt
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 apple, peeled and grated
– ½ cup shredded coconut
– ½ cup raisins
– ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 3 large eggs
– ¾ cup vegetable oil
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– ¼ cup orange juice
### **Directions**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. **Add Fruits and Nuts:** Stir in the grated carrots, apple, shredded coconut, raisins, and walnuts (if using).
4. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and orange juice.
5. **Mix Batter:** Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Fill Muffin Cups:** Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
8. **Cool:** Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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## **Why This Recipe Works**
Morning Glory Muffins are a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what makes them so special:
1. **Whole Wheat Flour:** Adds fiber and a nutty flavor, making the muffins more wholesome.
2. **Grated Carrots and Apple:** Provide natural sweetness, moisture, and a boost of nutrients.
3. **Shredded Coconut and Raisins:** Add a touch of sweetness and chewiness.
4. **Walnuts:** Optional, but they add a delightful crunch and healthy fats.
5. **Orange Juice:** Enhances the flavor and adds a subtle citrus note.
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## **Tips for Perfect Morning Glory Muffins**
To ensure your muffins turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips:
1. **Grate Fresh Carrots and Apple:** Freshly grated carrots and apple provide the best texture and flavor. Pre-packaged shredded carrots can be too dry.
2. **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the batter can lead to dense muffins. Stir until just combined.
3. **Use Room Temperature Eggs:** This helps the ingredients blend more evenly.
4. **Check for Doneness:** Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, they’re done. If not, bake for a few more minutes.
5. **Customize the Sweetness:** If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar to ¾ cup or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
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## **Creative Variations**
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to switch things up:
1. **Tropical Twist:** Replace the raisins with dried pineapple or mango, and add a handful of macadamia nuts.
2. **Chocolate Chip Delight:** Add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a sweet treat.
3. **Nut-Free Option:** Skip the walnuts and add sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
4. **Gluten-Free Version:** Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of whole wheat flour.
5. **Spiced Up:** Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth and flavor.
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## **Serving and Presentation Ideas**
Morning Glory Muffins are delicious on their own, but here are some fun ways to serve and present them:
1. **Breakfast Spread:** Serve the muffins as part of a breakfast buffet with fresh fruit, yogurt, and coffee.
2. **On-the-Go Snack:** Wrap individual muffins in parchment paper and tie with twine for a portable snack.
3. **Brunch Centerpiece:** Arrange the muffins on a tiered stand for a beautiful brunch display.
4. **Pair with a Beverage:** Enjoy the muffins with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of orange juice.
5. **Add a Spread:** Serve with a dollop of cream cheese, butter, or nut butter for extra indulgence.
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## **Storage and Freezing Tips**
– **Room Temperature:** Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
– **Refrigerator:** For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
– **Freezer:** Wrap the muffins individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before serving.
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## **The History of Morning Glory Muffins**
Morning Glory Muffins were first created in the 1970s by chef Pam McKinstry at her Nantucket restaurant, The Morning Glory Café. The recipe quickly gained popularity for its unique combination of flavors and wholesome ingredients. Over the years, it has become a staple in bakeries and home kitchens alike.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
– **Nutritious and Delicious:** Packed with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, these muffins are a healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
– **Easy to Make:** With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
– **Versatile:** You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
– **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether it’s breakfast, a snack, or a treat to share, these muffins are always a hit.
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## **Final Thoughts**
Morning Glory Muffins are a timeless treat that combines wholesome ingredients with irresistible flavor. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or as a quick snack on the go, they’re sure to brighten your day. Plus, with so many ways to customize the recipe, you can make them your own.
So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of these delightful muffins. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!
Happy baking! 🌞🧁
