Morning Glory Muffin Recipe: Morning Glory Muffins are the kind of breakfast treat that makes you smile first thing in the morning. Bursting with the goodness of grated carrots, apples, raisins, nuts, and a hint of cinnamon, these muffins are both wholesome and satisfying. They strike the perfect balance between hearty and sweet — like a sunshine-filled bite that energizes your day.
Originally created by Chef Pam McKinstry in the late 1970s at her Morning Glory Café on Nantucket Island, these muffins quickly became a sensation. Their rustic charm and nutrient-packed ingredients made them an instant favorite among health-conscious eaters and brunch lovers alike.
What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility. You can tweak it to your liking — add pineapple for extra moisture, swap nuts for seeds, or toss in coconut for a tropical twist. Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven or grab one for an on-the-go snack, Morning Glory Muffins never disappoint. They’re not just muffins; they’re comfort, energy, and flavor all in one bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into baking, let’s gather everything you need. Having your ingredients ready (and measured) will make the process smooth and enjoyable — and your kitchen will smell amazing in no time.
Core Ingredients for the Muffin Batter
Here’s what forms the base of your delicious muffins:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup (180ml) vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
These basics give your muffins structure, flavor, and lift. The eggs and oil add richness, while cinnamon and vanilla infuse warmth into every bite.
Add-ins for Flavor and Texture
This is where Morning Glory Muffins truly shine — in the mix-ins that give them personality and texture.
- 1½ cups grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- 1 apple, peeled and grated
- ½ cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup raisins (or dried cranberries)
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
These ingredients make every bite exciting. The carrots add moisture and a touch of sweetness, apples provide tartness, and the nuts and raisins add crunch and chewiness. Pineapple is optional, but if you add it — prepare for an extra burst of tropical delight!
Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Low-Sugar: Replace half the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
- Vegan Version: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and coconut oil.
- Nut-Free: Skip the nuts and add sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Morning Glory Muffins are wonderfully flexible — feel free to make them your own!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 12-cup muffin tin
- Paper or silicone muffin liners
- 2 mixing bowls (one for wet, one for dry ingredients)
- Whisk and wooden spoon (or electric mixer)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
- Grater for carrots and apple
Having the right tools helps keep your baking smooth and your cleanup minimal.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Morning Glory Muffins
Now that your ingredients are ready, it’s time to start baking! Follow these simple steps carefully — they’ll help you achieve muffins that are soft, moist, and full of flavor.
Step 1 – Preheat and Prepare the Baking Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners or lightly grease it with oil or nonstick spray.
This step ensures your muffins bake evenly from the moment they go in. A preheated oven gives the batter the right temperature boost, helping it rise beautifully and develop that perfect golden top.
Step 2 – Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Baking soda
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Make sure they’re well blended — this helps distribute the baking soda evenly so you don’t end up with dense spots. The aroma of cinnamon will already start to fill your kitchen — a hint of the goodness to come!
Step 3 – Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Oil
- Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth and slightly frothy. The oil helps keep your muffins moist, while eggs bind everything together.
If you’re using honey or maple syrup as part of your sweetener, mix it here — it will dissolve better and blend seamlessly into the batter.
Step 4 – Fold Wet and Dry Mixtures Together
Now comes the part where everything starts to come together. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold the two together.
The key word here is gently — you don’t want to overmix. Overmixing can make the muffins tough and dense instead of soft and fluffy. Stir just until you no longer see dry streaks of flour. The batter should look slightly thick but moist and evenly combined.
If you’re new to baking, here’s a quick tip: when folding, move your spoon in a gentle figure-eight motion. This helps incorporate the ingredients evenly without knocking out the air that helps your muffins rise.
The batter should already smell divine — with hints of cinnamon and vanilla swirling together in the air.
Step 5 – Add the Mix-ins
Now it’s time to add all those delicious, nutrient-packed extras that make Morning Glory Muffins truly special. Gently fold in your grated carrots, grated apple, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, raisins, and (if using) crushed pineapple.
You’ll notice the batter becoming thicker and filled with vibrant colors — orange from the carrots, golden tones from raisins, and specks of white coconut. It’s a beautiful sight that hints at how flavorful your muffins will be.
Again, don’t overmix. The goal is just to distribute the mix-ins evenly. Each muffin should have a good balance of fruit, nuts, and carrot in every bite.
Step 6 – Fill the Muffin Cups
Once your batter is ready, it’s time to get them into the pan. Using a large spoon or an ice cream scoop, fill each muffin cup about ¾ full. This leaves just enough space for them to rise nicely without overflowing.
If you want your muffins to look bakery-style, sprinkle a few extra chopped nuts or a bit of shredded coconut on top of each before baking. It gives them a beautiful, rustic finish and a little extra crunch.
Make sure the batter is distributed evenly — consistency helps all muffins bake at the same rate.
Step 7 – Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Keep an eye on them after the 20-minute mark. Every oven is a little different, and you don’t want to overbake — that’s the easiest way to lose moisture.
As they bake, your kitchen will fill with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon, vanilla, and toasted nuts — the perfect scent to start your day.
Once done, remove the muffins from the oven and let them sit in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This rest time allows them to firm up slightly while still retaining that warm, soft texture inside.
Step 8 – Cool and Serve
Let your muffins cool on a wire rack for at least 10–15 minutes before serving. This cooling period is important because it allows the flavors to settle and the crumb to firm up just right.
Serve them warm with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or even a smear of cream cheese for an indulgent touch. These muffins also taste fantastic plain — their natural sweetness and spice shine through beautifully on their own.
If you’re meal prepping, these muffins store wonderfully. Once cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
And yes, you can freeze them too! Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw overnight or reheat in the microwave for about 20 seconds.
Tips for the Perfect Morning Glory Muffins
Now that you’ve got your muffins baked to perfection, here are some expert tips to make sure they turn out great every single time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This can make muffins dense instead of fluffy. Always fold ingredients gently.
- Skipping the preheat: A cold oven won’t let the muffins rise properly. Always preheat!
- Too much moisture: If your pineapple or grated apple is overly juicy, squeeze out the excess liquid before mixing.
- Ignoring bake time: Every oven varies — test with a toothpick to avoid under- or overbaking.
- Filling cups too high: Leave enough space for them to rise evenly.
Avoiding these common mistakes guarantees muffins that are tender, flavorful, and perfectly golden every time.
How to Keep Muffins Moist and Fluffy
Moisture is key to delicious Morning Glory Muffins. Here’s how to ensure they stay soft even days after baking:
- Use oil instead of butter — it locks in moisture.
- Don’t overbake — remove as soon as the toothpick comes out clean.
- Store them in an airtight container with a paper towel underneath to absorb excess moisture.
- Add fruits like pineapple or apple for natural juiciness.
- Warm them slightly before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
A small trick? Brush the tops with a bit of warm honey when they’re fresh from the oven for an extra soft and glossy finish.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Morning Glory Muffins are perfect for meal prep — they keep beautifully and taste even better the next day.
- Room Temperature: Store in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep up to 7 days; just warm slightly before serving.
- Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic or foil and store for up to 3 months.
To reheat, microwave for 20–25 seconds or pop in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. They’ll taste just as fresh as the day you baked them.
Nutritional Information
Morning Glory Muffins aren’t just tasty — they’re packed with nutrients that make them a smart breakfast choice.
Calories and Macronutrient Breakdown
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per muffin (based on 12 muffins):
| Nutrient | Amount per Muffin |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 33 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
These muffins are full of wholesome ingredients that provide energy, fiber, and essential nutrients — making them far healthier than your average bakery muffin.
Healthy Ingredient Swaps
Want to make them even better for you? Try these simple swaps:
- Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for extra fiber.
- Coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
- Greek yogurt instead of part of the oil for added protein.
- Flaxseed or chia seeds for an omega-3 boost.
These small changes can make a big difference without compromising flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Morning Glory Muffins are wonderfully versatile — they fit perfectly into breakfast, brunch, or snack time. Whether you enjoy them warm or at room temperature, there are endless ways to elevate your muffin experience.
Perfect Pairings – Coffee, Tea, and More
These muffins pair beautifully with your favorite morning beverage. Their slightly sweet, spiced flavor complements both hot and cold drinks. Here are some ideas to make your meal complete:
- Coffee: A rich dark roast or a nutty medium blend enhances the warmth of cinnamon and nuts in the muffins.
- Tea: Try pairing with a spiced chai, green tea, or earl grey for a soothing balance.
- Milk or Almond Milk: The creamy texture pairs nicely with the muffin’s heartiness, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Fresh Juice: A glass of orange or carrot juice complements the fruity notes in the muffins beautifully.
If you’re serving these muffins for brunch, you can arrange them on a rustic platter with fresh fruits, butter, honey, and cream cheese for guests to customize. It makes a simple yet impressive spread that feels cozy and welcoming.
Creative Ways to Serve Morning Glory Muffins
Morning Glory Muffins are delicious on their own, but if you’re in the mood to get creative, try these fun serving ideas:
- Warm with a Spread: Slice the muffin in half and spread with butter, peanut butter, or almond butter for a rich, satisfying bite.
- With Yogurt and Berries: Crumble the muffin over a bowl of Greek yogurt topped with fresh berries — a delicious, protein-packed breakfast parfait.
- As a Dessert Treat: Warm the muffin slightly and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Mini Muffins for Snacks: Make smaller versions for lunch boxes or picnics. They’re the perfect size for snacking without the guilt.
- Muffin Trifle: Layer crumbled muffins with whipped cream and fruit for a simple yet elegant dessert.
Morning Glory Muffins are so adaptable that you’ll find yourself making them again and again, each time with a new twist.
FAQs about Morning Glory Muffin Recipe
1. Can I make Morning Glory Muffins gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture. You’ll get the same moist, flavorful muffins without any gluten.
2. How long do Morning Glory Muffins stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you refrigerate them, they’ll last about a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months — just reheat before serving.
3. Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Absolutely! Replace the granulated sugar with ¾ cup of honey or maple syrup. Reduce the oil slightly to balance the extra moisture. This gives your muffins a natural sweetness and a subtle floral note.
4. What’s the best way to store these muffins?
Once completely cooled, keep them in an airtight container. For room-temperature storage, add a paper towel inside to absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess. If freezing, wrap each muffin individually to preserve freshness.
5. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, but with a small adjustment. You can prepare the wet and dry ingredients separately and mix them just before baking. This prevents the baking soda from activating too early, ensuring your muffins rise beautifully in the oven.
Conclusion
Morning Glory Muffins aren’t just another baked good — they’re a beautiful blend of flavor, texture, and wholesome goodness that brings sunshine to your mornings. From the first whiff of cinnamon to the last crumb on your plate, these muffins promise warmth, comfort, and a little indulgence in every bite.
Their mix of carrots, apples, nuts, and raisins makes them the perfect combination of hearty and sweet. They’re easy to make, store well, and taste even better the next day. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe never fails to impress.
So the next time you’re craving something homemade and heartwarming, skip the store-bought muffins and bake these from scratch. You’ll taste the difference — and your family will too.
