As the scent of cinnamon and warm spices wafts through my kitchen, I’m reminded of brighter mornings spent baking. These Healthy Morning Glory Muffins combine the best of both worlds: wholesome ingredients and delightful flavors. Packed with zucchini and carrots, they are an irresistible way to sneak in some veggies while savoring a homemade breakfast. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—easily adapted to fit gluten-free diets or even your latest cravings. Whether you enjoy them with coffee or as a quick snack on the go, these muffins are sure to become a cherished addition to your morning routine. Ready to transform your breakfast with this fun recipe?

Why are these muffins a breakfast game changer?

Unmatched Versatility: These Morning Glory Muffins can easily be customized with your favorite add-ins, from dried fruits to seeds, making them perfect for every palate.
Nutrient-Packed: Packed with zucchini and carrots, they’re an easy way to add vitamins to your breakfast without sacrificing flavor.
Time-Saving Delight: Made in one bowl, they come together quickly, so you can enjoy homemade goodness amidst a busy morning routine.
A Sweet Surprise: With a touch of maple syrup and applesauce, these muffins offer a delicate sweetness that’s hard to resist. Pair them with a glass of orange juice or coffee for the ultimate start to your day! For other delicious muffin ideas, don’t miss my Vegan Strawberry Muffins and Pumpkin Protein Muffins.

Morning Glory Muffin Ingredients

• These muffins are flavorful and versatile!

For the Muffin Base

Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; can be reduced for less sweetness.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Cinnamon – Infuses warm spice flavor; increase for a more robust taste.
Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps muffins rise.
Salt – Enhances flavors; use less for a lower-sodium version.

For the Add-ins

Unsweetened Coconut – Adds texture and subtle sweetness; can be omitted for a lighter muffin.
Chopped Walnuts – Provides crunch and nutty flavor; substitute with pecans or omit for nut-free variety.
Zucchini (grated and wrung out) – Adds moisture and nutritional value while being nearly undetectable in taste.
Carrot (grated) – Offers sweetness and moisture; can be substituted with parsnip or omitted.

For the Moisture

Unsweetened Applesauce – Keeps muffins moist and reduces sugar; substitute with yogurt for a different texture.
Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that complements flavors; can be replaced with honey or agave syrup.
Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a vegan alternative.
Avocado Oil – Keeps muffins tender; replace with vegetable or coconut oil.

With this delightful blend of ingredients, your Morning Glory Muffins will not only be healthy but also irresistibly tasty!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Morning Glory Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a muffin tin and line it with paper liners to prevent sticking. This will make for easy cleanup and ensure your Morning Glory Muffins come out beautifully shaped.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, unsweetened coconut, and chopped walnuts. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined. This will create a uniform blend that will help your muffins rise evenly as they bake.

Step 3: Add the Veggies
Now, incorporate the grated zucchini and carrot into the dry mixture. Gently fold the vegetables into the dry ingredients using a spatula. This step is crucial for ensuring that the veggies are evenly distributed and assist in creating the moist texture that defines your Morning Glory Muffins.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, avocado oil, and vanilla extract. Stir these wet ingredients until they are fully combined and smooth. Once ready, pour the wet mixture into your bowl of dry ingredients, making sure to capture all that wonderful flavor.

Step 5: Stir the Batter
Using a spatula, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your muffins dense rather than light and fluffy. The batter should still be slightly lumpy with visible flecks of zucchini and carrot for that delightful texture.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tin
Scoop the muffin batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about two-thirds full. This will allow room for the muffins to rise without overflow. Spread the batter gently to ensure each muffin is shaped uniformly, which helps with even baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on the muffins as they bake and do the toothpick test; insert a toothpick in the center of a muffin, and if it comes out clean with a few moist crumbs, they’re done. The tops should be golden brown and spring back when touched.

Step 8: Cool the Muffins
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let it sit for about 7 minutes. This allows the muffins to set properly. Afterward, carefully transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is key for achieving the perfect texture and enjoying them warm or at room temperature.

What to Serve with Healthy Morning Glory Muffins

Start your mornings right by enhancing your breakfast spread with satisfying accompaniments that bask in the same bright, wholesome flavors as these delightful muffins.

Creamy Greek Yogurt: Rich and tangy, it adds a luscious texture while balancing the sweetness of the muffins. Top with honey or fresh fruit for an extra kick!
Fresh Fruit Salad: A burst of color and refreshing sweetness, a fruit salad accentuates the subtle spices of the muffins while providing additional vitamins.
Nutty Granola: The crunchiness of granola adds texture and pairs beautifully with the moistness of the muffins, making each bite exciting and satisfying.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea soothes the soul and complements the cozy spices found in morning glory muffins.
Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey brings an inviting sweetness that enhances the muffins’ flavors, creating an indulgent yet healthy topping.
Smoothie Bowl: Packed with nutrients, a green smoothie bowl topped with seeds and nuts creates a wholesome breakfast experience to fuel your day.
Cinnamon-Spiced Oatmeal: The warm, hearty qualities of oatmeal echo the spices in the muffins, creating a comforting breakfast duo that warms the heart.
Almond Milk Latte: Enjoying the muffins with a frothy almond milk latte provides a creamy, nutty complement, elevating your breakfast ritual.
Chia Seed Pudding: The delightful texture of chia seed pudding enhances your meal with healthy fats and fiber while remaining deliciously satisfying.

Make Ahead Options

These Healthy Morning Glory Muffins are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness without the morning rush! You can prepare the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can grate the zucchini and carrot in advance, storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet ingredients with the prepped dry mix and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have delicious muffins with minimal effort, making your busy mornings a breeze!

Morning Glory Muffins Customizations

Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and make these muffins your own!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free treat.
Nut-Free: Swap walnuts for sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
Extra Sweet: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful burst of sweetness in every bite.
Fruit-Filled: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and chewiness that brightens each muffin.
Spicy Twist: For a little zing, mix in 1/4 teaspoon of ginger or a pinch of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon.
Yogurt Substitute: Use Greek yogurt instead of applesauce for a protein-packed twist that’s equally moist and creamy.
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with a flaxseed meal and water mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan-friendly alternative.
Sunny Citrus: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing, citrusy kick that elevates the flavor profile.

With these variations, you can tweak the recipe to match your tastes perfectly. For even more exciting muffin ideas, check out my delightful Mcgriddle Bites that are sure to impress!

How to Store and Freeze Morning Glory Muffins

Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful for leisurely breakfast mornings.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze muffins individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To revive your Morning Glory Muffins, reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in an oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring they’re warm and ready to enjoy!

Expert Tips for Morning Glory Muffins

Well-Wrung Zucchini: Ensure the grated zucchini is thoroughly squeezed to remove excess moisture. This prevents soggy muffins and ensures a perfect texture.
Mix Carefully: Don’t overmix the batter! Stir gently until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture in your Morning Glory Muffins.
Watch the Oven: Every oven is different; start checking your muffins at the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking. Use the toothpick test for doneness.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or dried fruits. Just remember to balance the extras with the base ingredients to keep muffins from being overly dense.
Storage Tips: To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Morning Glory Muffins Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for these muffins?
Absolutely! When choosing zucchini and carrots, look for firm vegetables without any dark spots or blemishes. For optimal freshness, select zucchinis that are medium-sized, around 6-7 inches long, and carrots that are vibrant in color and have a crunch when you snap them. If you’re using applesauce, aim for the unsweetened variety made from fresh apples to avoid excess sugar.

What are the best storage methods for these muffins?
Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, I recommend freezing them. Place each muffin inside plastic wrap, then put them in a zip-top bag. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. Just make sure they cool completely before wrapping them to avoid sogginess!

How do I freeze and reheat Morning Glory Muffins?
To freeze, wrap each cooled muffin tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag—this keeps out air and prevents freezer burn. For reheating, simply remove the plastic wrap and microwave for 15-20 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven!

Can I make these muffins allergy-friendly?
Very much so! To accommodate nut allergies, simply omit the chopped walnuts or substitute them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a tasty crunch. If gluten is an issue, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg) for a vegan option.

What if my muffins turn out too dense or dry?
Don’t worry! If your muffins are dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter; remember to fold the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. If they turn out dry, ensure your grated zucchini is well-wrung out to avoid excess moisture loss. To enhance moisture, consider adding a little more applesauce or a splash of milk next time.

Can I customize the mix-ins for these muffins?
Absolutely! The more, the merrier! Feel free to add in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a sweet twist or mix in seeds such as chia or flaxseeds for added nutrition. Just make sure not to overload the batter to maintain that perfect muffin texture!