These morning glory muffins are a perfect choice if you’re looking for a delicious and healthier breakfast option. Packed with nutritious ingredients, they’re a great way to start your day. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for meal prep! close up of a morning glory muffin in a muffin pan

What is a morning glory muffin?

A morning glory muffin is a type of muffin that typically contains a variety of ingredients, such as grated carrots, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and raisins or other dried fruit. These muffins are often spiced with cinnamon and may include other ingredients such as applesauce, pineapple, or orange juice. They are often eaten for breakfast or as a snack, and can be a great way to get some extra fruit and vegetables into your diet.

Why this recipe is so great:

  • Nutritious ingredients – Loaded with healthy ingredients like carrots, apples, coconut, raisins, and nuts, these muffins provide a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthier option compared to other muffins or pastries. Plus, they are made with whole wheat flour and just enough sugar to still taste great without being overly sweet. 
  • Amazing taste and texture – These muffins are incredibly soft and fluffy. They are loaded with flavor and perfectly spiced with warm notes of brown sugar.
  • Versatile – This recipe can be easily customized to your liking by adding/omitting ingredients to your preference or using what you have on hand. See Substitutions & Variations below.

morning glory muffins on a blue backdrop with one a plate

How to make morning glory muffins:

(the ingredient amounts are listed in the printable recipe card further below)

  1. In a large bowl, toss together the whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, milk or orange juice, and vanilla extract. Stir in the carrots, apple, coconut, raisins, and pecans or walnuts.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  4. Using a large muffin scoop or tablespoon, fill each muffin cup almost full. Bake at 375F for 25 minutes.

process pictures of how to make morning glory muffins

Substitutions & Variations:

  • Whole wheat flour – whole wheat pastry flour (my preference) or all-purpose flour can be used instead
  • Brown sugar – light or dark brown sugar works, or granulated sugar
  • Ground cinnamon – pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice is great too
  • Eggs – can be replaced with flax egg as a vegan option
  • Vegetable oil – any kind of neutral-tasting oil can be used
  • Pecans – walnuts or any chopped nuts you have on hand
  • Raisins– any type of dried fruit like cranberries, blueberries, cherries, or chopped dates
  • Grated apple – can be swapped with grated zucchini or canned crushed pineapples (drained)

FAQ:

Why are they called morning glory muffins?

The muffins were named after the “Morning Glory Cafe” in Nantucket. The owner Pam McKinstry created the original recipe back in 1978. Then in 1981, Gourmet magazine printed her recipe and in 1991 it was chosen as one of the magazine’s 25 favorite recipes from the previous 50 years.

Are morning glory muffins healthy?

Morning glory muffins can be healthy depending on the recipe, as they are typically made with whole wheat flour and contain fruit and vegetables. However, they usually contain sugars and fats as well to make them taste good, but they are definitely a healthier option.

Can you freeze morning glory muffins?

Yes, morning glory muffins can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds. A morning glory muffin broken in half

These morning glory muffins are perfect for breakfast or brunch, and they also make a great snack or dessert. They’re moist, flavorful, and loaded with healthy ingredients that will keep you feeling full and energized all morning long. So why not whip up a batch today and see for yourself how delicious they are!

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Did you make this recipe? Please kindly leave a comment with your star rating below.

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Morning Glory Muffins

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 8 reviews
  • Author: Lily Ernst
  • Prep Time: 20 min
  • Cook Time: 25 min
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 large muffins
  • Category: breakfast, snack
  • Method: bake
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These morning glory muffins are a perfect choice if you’re looking for a healthy and delicious breakfast option. Packed with nutritious ingredients, they’re a great way to start your day.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups (260g) whole wheat flour 
  • 1 cup (200g) lightly packed brown sugar
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 2 & 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2/3 cups vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk or orange juice
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups grated carrots (about 1 large)
  • 1 cup grated apple (about 1 large)
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (sweet or unsweetened)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/2 cup raisins

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375F and line a muffin pan with paper liners
  2. In a large bowl, toss together the whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Break apart any clumps of brown sugar in the mixture with your fingers.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, milk or orange juice, and vanilla extract. Stir in the carrots, apple, coconut, raisins, and nuts.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  5. Using a large muffin scoop or tablespoon, fill each muffin cup almost full.
  6. Bake for 25-28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days at room temperature.