Morning Glory Muffins are hearty, wholesome muffins packed with fruits, vegetables, nuts, and warm spices. Made with whole wheat flour, carrots, apples, raisins, coconut, walnuts, and fresh orange juice, these muffins are a flavorful and nutritious way to start your morning.
Soft, moist, and naturally sweet, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or meal prep. Each bite is filled with texture and warm cinnamon flavor, making these muffins both comforting and energizing.
If you enjoy healthier baked goods, these muffins are a great option alongside other nutritious favorites like bran muffins or oatmeal muffins.
What Are Morning Glory Muffins?
Morning Glory Muffins have a fun history. The original recipe was created in 1978 by Pam McKinstry, owner of the Morning Glory Café on Nantucket’s Old South Wharf in New England.
These muffins quickly became popular because they combine fruits, vegetables, nuts, and spices into one delicious breakfast treat. Today, many variations exist, but they all share the same idea: a muffin loaded with wholesome ingredients that provide both flavor and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love These Muffins
Naturally wholesome ingredients
Loaded with carrots, apples, raisins, and nuts for a nutritious start to the day.
Perfect breakfast or snack
They’re filling, flavorful, and easy to grab on busy mornings.
Warm and comforting flavors
Cinnamon, orange zest, and sweet fruits create a cozy flavor combination.
Great for meal prep
Bake a batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
Ingredients
- ½ cup raisins
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 medium carrots, finely grated (about 2 cups)
- 1 large Granny Smith apple, grated (about 1 cup)
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Zest and juice of 1 orange (about ¼ cup juice)
Ingredient Benefits
These muffins are filled with ingredients that provide both flavor and nutrition.
Raisins
A great source of fiber, iron, and antioxidants. Soaking them in hot water helps them become soft and plump.
Carrots
Rich in beta-carotene, vitamins, and fiber, carrots add natural sweetness and moisture.
Apples
Apples help improve digestion and provide natural sweetness and nutrients.
Coconut
Adds texture and flavor while providing antioxidants and healthy fats.
Walnuts
A great source of healthy fats, protein, and crunch.
How to Make Morning Glory Muffins
1. Prepare the oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with liners.
2. Soak the raisins
Place raisins in a small bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for 10–15 minutes to soften.
3. Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl whisk together:
- Whole wheat flour
- Brown sugar
- Baking soda
- Cinnamon
- Ginger
- Salt
4. Add fruits and nuts
Stir in the grated carrots, grated apple, coconut, and walnuts.
5. Mix the wet ingredients
In another bowl whisk together:
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil
- Vanilla extract
- Orange juice
- Orange zest
6. Combine the batter
Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Drain the raisins and gently fold them into the batter.
7. Fill the muffin pan
Scoop about ⅓ cup of batter into each muffin cup, filling them nearly to the top.
8. Bake
Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
Allow muffins to cool before serving.
Muffin Variations
Morning Glory Muffins are easy to customize based on your preferences.
Swap the raisins
Use dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots.
Reduce the sugar
Use less brown sugar or replace part of it with honey.
Change the nuts
Try pecans, almonds, or peanuts.
Make them gluten-free
Substitute gluten-free flour for the whole wheat flour.
Add toppings
Sprinkle sunflower seeds or oats on top before baking.
How to Store Morning Glory Muffins
Room temperature
Store muffins in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Refrigerator
They can last up to 1 week when refrigerated.
Can You Freeze These Muffins?
Yes! Morning Glory Muffins freeze very well.
- Let the muffins cool completely.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.
Final Thoughts
Morning Glory Muffins are the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition. Packed with fruits, vegetables, and warm spices, they offer a delicious way to start the day while still feeling like a treat.