Morning Glory Muffins Recipe: Ever wake up craving something that’s hearty, sweet, packed with texture, and feels like a hug in muffin form? That’s exactly what Morning Glory Muffins deliver.
These delightful treats are more than just breakfast food—they’re a perfect grab-and-go option loaded with fruits, veggies, nuts, and spices.
Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a brunch party, Morning Glory Muffins are an all-in-one breakfast that never disappoints.
What Are Morning Glory Muffins?
Morning Glory Muffins are dense, moist, and flavorful muffins packed with a mix of healthy ingredients like grated carrots, apples, coconut, raisins, and nuts. Think of them as the love child of carrot cake and a bran muffin—with a little tropical flair. Originally designed as a wholesome breakfast option, they’re now a favorite snack for any time of the day. The variety of textures—crunchy, chewy, and soft—make every bite a little adventure.
History of Morning Glory Muffins
The original Morning Glory Muffin was created by Chef Pam McKinstry in 1978 at the Morning Glory Café on Nantucket Island. Her goal was to offer a delicious, healthy muffin made with ingredients that nourish the body and satisfy the taste buds. The recipe was published in Gourmet magazine in 1981 and quickly rose to fame. Since then, countless bakers have put their own twist on it, but the base remains the same: simple, wholesome ingredients blended into a perfect muffin.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe hits all the right notes. It’s naturally sweetened, customizable, and great for meal prep. Here’s what makes Morning Glory Muffins irresistible:
- Loaded with good stuff – You get your fruits, veggies, and grains all in one muffin.
- Meal-prep friendly – These freeze beautifully and make great on-the-go snacks.
- Customizable – Swap or skip ingredients depending on what you have on hand.
- Kid-approved – Even picky eaters love the naturally sweet flavor.
- Perfect texture – Moist inside, golden brown outside, with chewy bites and crunchy nuts.
Are Morning Glory Muffins Healthy?
Yes! They’re much healthier than your average store-bought muffins. Morning Glory Muffins combine fiber-rich fruits and veggies, healthy fats from nuts and seeds, and natural sweetness from apples and raisins. If you want to make them even lighter, you can sub in whole wheat flour, cut down the sugar, or use applesauce instead of oil. With all these nutrient-dense ingredients, you’ll feel energized and satisfied.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break it down by category to make it simple.
Fruits
- 1 apple, grated (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- ½ cup raisins or chopped dates
- ¼ cup crushed pineapple (drained)
Vegetables
- 1 cup grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
Grains and Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier version)
- ½ cup rolled oats (optional, for texture)
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Liquid and Fat Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- ¼ cup applesauce (optional for moisture)
Sweeteners and Spices
- ½ cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Extras (Optional but Awesome)
- ¼ cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseed (for added fiber)
Substitution Ideas
Don’t have everything on the list? No problem. Here are some easy swaps:
- Flour: Sub almond flour or gluten-free flour mix if needed.
- Oil: Use melted butter, coconut oil, or Greek yogurt.
- Sugar: Maple syrup, honey, or monk fruit sweetener.
- Fruits: Use dried cranberries, blueberries, or chopped banana.
- Nuts: Leave them out for allergies or use sunflower seeds instead.
- Pineapple: Can be replaced with mashed banana or more apple.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Before we dive into the baking steps, get these tools ready:
- Muffin tin (12-cup)
- Paper liners or non-stick spray
- Two mixing bowls (one for dry, one for wet)
- Grater or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk and rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Morning Glory Muffins
Let’s bake! Follow these steps carefully for the perfect muffin batch.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup. Proper prep ensures easy release and even baking.
Step 2: Grate Carrots and Apples
Peel and grate fresh carrots and apples using the fine side of a grater. Gently squeeze out excess moisture so the muffins don’t become soggy.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and sugar. Mixing dry ingredients evenly helps with consistent texture and flavor.
Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk eggs, oil, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk or juice until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and richness.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender.
Step 6: Fold in Fruits, Nuts, and Extras
Fold in grated carrots and apples, along with optional add-ins like crushed pineapple, raisins, coconut, or chopped nuts. Mix gently to distribute evenly.
Step 7: Fill the Muffin Cups
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. This allows room for rising.
Step 8: Bake the Muffins
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Morning Glory Muffins
Want your muffins to turn out bakery-perfect every time? Here are some game-changing tips:
- Use fresh produce – Freshly grated carrots and apples provide moisture and natural sweetness.
- Don’t overmix – Overworking the batter creates dense, chewy muffins. Gentle folding is key.
- Let them rest – Allow the batter to sit for 10 minutes before baking. It helps the flour hydrate and improves texture.
- Room temperature ingredients – Eggs and applesauce mix better when not cold.
- Try muffin liners – Not only do they prevent sticking, but they also make cleanup easier.
- Check your baking soda – If it’s expired, your muffins won’t rise properly.
- Add a crunch – Sprinkle turbinado sugar or extra nuts on top for a delightful finish.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Morning Glory Muffins store really well, making them perfect for meal prep.
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week to extend freshness. Warm briefly in the microwave before eating.
Freezing:
- Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw: Let sit at room temperature for a few hours or warm in the microwave for 30–45 seconds.
How to Serve Morning Glory Muffins
These muffins are so versatile that they can be served in lots of fun and satisfying ways:
- Breakfast on the go – Pair with a smoothie or coffee.
- Afternoon snack – Add nut butter or cream cheese for extra richness.
- Mini brunch spread – Serve alongside yogurt, fruit, and eggs.
- Dessert idea – Slice in half and toast, then add a dollop of whipped cream or drizzle of honey.
They’re sweet enough to satisfy your cravings but hearty enough to keep you full.
Variations of the Recipe
Feel like mixing it up? Try these delicious Morning Glory Muffin variations:
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Vegan Option: Swap eggs for flax eggs and use a plant-based yogurt or applesauce instead of oil.
- No-Sugar Added: Use mashed banana or more applesauce instead of sugar.
- Tropical Style: Add diced mango and extra coconut for an island twist.
- Chocolate Treat: Toss in a handful of dark chocolate chips for a dessert-inspired version.
- Zucchini Swap: Replace some of the carrots with grated zucchini for a green twist.
Each variation adds a fun new dimension while keeping the base recipe intact.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this is a pretty forgiving recipe, here are some common slip-ups to watch out for:
- Overmixing the batter – This is the #1 reason muffins turn out dense.
- Using old baking soda – Always check the expiration date.
- Skipping the paper liners – Muffins can stick to the pan without them.
- Not draining pineapple – Too much liquid can ruin the texture.
- Overbaking – They’ll dry out. Keep an eye on the clock!
- Ignoring the resting time – Letting the batter sit helps boost moisture and consistency.
- Forgetting to cool properly – Muffins left in the pan too long can steam and get soggy bottoms.
Avoid these mistakes, and your muffins will come out perfect every time.
FAQs about Morning Glory Muffins Recipe
1. Can I make Morning Glory Muffins without eggs?
Yes! You can use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) or a mashed banana as an egg substitute.
2. How do I keep the muffins from being too wet or soggy?
Make sure to gently squeeze out excess moisture from the grated apples and carrots, and always drain the pineapple well.
3. Can I turn this recipe into a loaf or cake?
Absolutely. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for about 50–60 minutes at 350°F. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
4. What’s the best flour to use for a healthier version?
Whole wheat flour or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour gives a slightly nutty taste and adds more fiber.
5. Are these muffins good for kids?
Yes! Kids love them, and you can even sneak in extra veggies like zucchini. Just go easy on the nuts if allergies are a concern.
Conclusion
Morning Glory Muffins are the kind of baked good that truly lives up to their name—they brighten your morning, fill your kitchen with warm, spicy scents, and nourish your body with wholesome ingredients. They’re easy to make, easy to customize, and easy to love. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers consistent results with real flavor and heart. So grab those carrots, apples, and spices and start baking—your mornings will thank you.
