If you’re searching for a way to infuse your mornings with a burst of wholesome flavor, these Best Morning Glory Muffins will absolutely make you jump out of bed! Loaded with bright carrots, juicy apples, crunchy walnuts, and just the right amount of spice, each muffin is a perfect balance of hearty and sweet. They’re not only packed with nutrients but offer a delightful texture and a hint of nostalgia with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch or grabbing breakfast on-the-go, these muffins will quickly become your go-to recipe.

Best Morning Glory Muffins Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making the Best Morning Glory Muffins is all about using simple, familiar ingredients that work together to create incredible depth and satisfaction. From warm spices to fresh produce, every component matters for achieving that classic, irresistible muffin experience.

Whole wheat flour: Adds nutty flavor and wholesome fiber, giving each muffin structure and heartiness.
All-purpose flour: Keeps the muffins from getting too dense, lending a lovely soft crumb.
Brown sugar: Brings moisture and a gentle molasses sweetness that perfectly complements the warm spices.
Baking powder: Ensures the muffins rise nice and tall for that bakery-style dome.
Baking soda: Reacts with applesauce and creates extra tenderness in the crumb.
Ground cinnamon: Infuses the entire batch with a classic cozy aroma and flavor.
Ground ginger: Adds a subtle zing for a delightful depth and warmth.
Salt: Intensifies and balances all the sweet and spicy notes.
Unsweetened applesauce: Keeps the muffins moist and slightly sweet while lightening up the batter.
Coconut oil, melted: Lends a luscious richness and just a hint of tropical flair.
Large apple, shredded: Brings juicy bursts of sweetness and a soft bite to every muffin.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out all the flavors with a dreamy, fragrant finish.
Grated carrot: Delivers color, subtle earthy sweetness, and extra moisture that keeps these muffins irresistible.
Raisins: Offers little pops of chewiness and fruity flavor for a classic morning glory touch.
Flaked coconut: Sprinkles in a gentle chew and light tropical undertones.
Walnuts, chopped: Provide nutty crunch and richness in every bite.

How to Make Best Morning Glory Muffins

Step 1: Prep Your Muffin Tin and Oven

Begin by lining your muffin tin with paper liners, which not only ensures the muffins release easily but also makes cleanup a breeze. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so when it’s time to bake, it’s already at the perfect temperature for creating a beautiful rise and golden top on these Best Morning Glory Muffins.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. This step is essential—it evenly distributes the rising agents and spices so every muffin gets a consistent flavor and texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the applesauce, melted coconut oil, shredded apple, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together just until the mixture is moistened and combined. Don’t over-mix here; a gentle hand keeps the muffins soft and tender.

Step 4: Fold in the Add-ins

Gently fold in the grated carrot, raisins, flaked coconut, and chopped walnuts. The key is to make sure these tasty extras are evenly distributed so every single bite of your Best Morning Glory Muffins is packed with variety and delicious surprises.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups

Spoon the batter into your prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. This amount gives the muffins room to rise without spilling over, ensuring a lovely domed shape with a satisfying, bakery-style appeal.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for the first 10 minutes to encourage a high rise. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 10-12 minutes. This gradual change bakes the centers through and creates moist, fluffy muffins. Test with a toothpick—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins rest in the tin for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This quick rest lets the flavors settle and the muffins achieve perfect, crave-worthy texture. Enjoy warm, at room temperature, or even chilled for a refreshing treat!

How to Serve Best Morning Glory Muffins

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of chopped nuts or flaked coconut on top can elevate the look of your Best Morning Glory Muffins and hint at their delicious contents. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey is both beautiful and tasty.

Side Dishes

Pair these muffins with a fruit salad, a cozy mug of coffee, or even a creamy smoothie for a satisfying breakfast spread. Their hearty nature makes them the star of the plate, but a touch of fresh fruit or even a side of scrambled eggs complements them perfectly for any morning routine.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special brunch or family get-together, try arranging your Best Morning Glory Muffins on a rustic serving board with bowls of honey, yogurt, or cream cheese spreads on the side. Mini muffin versions are delightful for grab-and-go gatherings or to tuck into lunchboxes for a mid-morning pick-me-up!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your Best Morning Glory Muffins have completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them tender and moist while making breakfast or snack-time effortless.

Freezing

Best Morning Glory Muffins freeze wonderfully! Wrap each cooled muffin individually in plastic wrap, then stash them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months—just grab one whenever those morning cravings hit.

Reheating

To enjoy muffins straight from the freezer, unwrap and microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or pop in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 8 minutes. The gentle heat revives their just-baked aroma, making them taste as if they came right out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I make Best Morning Glory Muffins gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the whole wheat and all-purpose flours with your favorite gluten-free blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to help the muffins hold together beautifully.

What can I use instead of coconut oil?

Melted butter or a neutral vegetable oil (like canola or avocado oil) works really well in place of coconut oil. The flavor may shift slightly, but the texture will remain moist and tender.

Are there any substitutes for the walnuts and raisins?

Of course! Pecans or almonds can replace walnuts for a different nutty note, and you can swap raisins with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or currants if you’d like a fun twist.

Can I make mini Best Morning Glory Muffins?

Definitely—mini muffins are both adorable and great for portion control. Just reduce the baking time to around 11-13 minutes, keeping an eye on them so they don’t over-bake.

How do I make these muffins vegan?

You’re in luck—the recipe already uses applesauce as the main binder, and coconut oil is naturally plant-based. Just double-check that your brown sugar is vegan, and you’re all set!

Final Thoughts

With every bite of these Best Morning Glory Muffins, you’ll discover just how easy it is to turn ordinary ingredients into something breakfast-worthy and unforgettable. There’s nothing like the warmth and comfort of homemade muffins to make your morning shine. Give them a try and share the joy—your taste buds (and friends) will thank you!