Morning Glory Zucchini Muffins

Moist, hearty, and packed with wholesome ingredients, these Morning Glory Zucchini Muffins are the perfect way to start your day. Loaded with zucchini, apple, pineapple, nuts, and warm spices, they offer natural sweetness, texture, and a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and full of fiber
• Naturally sweet with fruit and a touch of sugar
• Packed with veggies and fruit
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or snacks
• Moist and flavorful with a soft crumb
• Easy to make in one bowl
• Freezer-friendly
• Customizable mix-ins
• Great for meal prep
• Loved by kids and adults alike

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 large eggs
1/2 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup melted butter
1/4 cup plain low-fat Greek yogurt (or applesauce)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix-ins:
1 cup grated zucchini, moisture lightly squeezed
1/2 cup grated apple
1/3 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (optional)
1/3 cup golden raisins or chopped dates
1/3 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or wheat germ (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, Greek yogurt, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients just until combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in zucchini, apple, coconut, raisins, pineapple, nuts, and flaxseed (if using).
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each almost to the top.
7. Bake for 10 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.
8. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 41 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Calories: 235 kcal per muffin

Variations

• Make it gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based yogurt and butter.
• Lower sugar: Reduce the sugar or use a sugar alternative.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts or seeds on top before baking.

storage/reheating

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, they freeze well. Wrap tightly and store in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Do I need to peel the zucchini and apple?

No, peeling is not necessary. Just grate and lightly squeeze out excess moisture.

Can I omit the coconut or raisins?

Yes, both are optional and can be left out or replaced with other mix-ins.

What kind of apple works best?

Use a firm, slightly tart apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

Are these muffins very sweet?

They are mildly sweet with natural sweetness from fruit and a balanced sugar content.

What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute with coconut oil or a neutral vegetable oil.

Can I make mini muffins?

Yes, reduce the baking time to 10–12 minutes for mini muffins.

How do I know when they are done?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with moist crumbs.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! A handful of dark chocolate chips would be delicious.

Conclusion

Morning Glory Zucchini Muffins are a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, veggie-packed treat any time of day. Moist, flavorful, and full of texture, they’re perfect for breakfast on-the-go, school lunches, or a satisfying snack. Customize them with your favorite add-ins and enjoy their wholesome goodness.

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