There’s something truly heartwarming about waking up to the scent of warm muffins wafting through the kitchen. With the first hint of golden sunshine peeking through the curtains, I often find myself craving something wholesome yet indulgent—these Candied Pecan Morning Glory Muffins are just the answer! Bursting with nutritious ingredients like shredded carrots, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, they deliver a delightful balance of flavor and health in every bite.
When I first discovered this recipe, the combination of hearty texture and sweet topping felt like a revelation. Each muffin is perfectly moist and satisfying, making them a wonderful choice for breakfast, brunch, or even that mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, the candied pecan topping adds a crunch of sweetness that elevates them from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re looking to provide your family with a nourishing start to their day or impress guests at your next gathering, these muffins are sure to delight with every bite!
Why Love These Morning Glory Muffins?
Heartwarming Aroma: There’s nothing quite like the scent of these muffins baking to make your kitchen feel cozy and inviting.
Wholesome Ingredients: Loaded with carrots, apples, and cranberries, they provide essential vitamins and nutrients.
Perfectly Moist: Each bite is a delight, thanks to the balance of healthy fats and eggs that create a rich texture.
Crunchy Topping: The candied pecan topping adds a sweet and crunchy finish that makes these muffins feel indulgent.
Versatile Breakfast: Enjoy them warm with coffee or tea, or as a quick on-the-go snack—perfect for busy mornings!
Easy to Customize: Feel free to mix up the nuts and fruits, making these muffins uniquely yours for any occasion.
If you’re eager to learn more about perfecting your muffin game, check out my tips on baking soft muffins!
Morning Glory Muffins Ingredients
These delightful Morning Glory Muffins with Candied Pecan Topping are packed with wholesome ingredients that elevate them to a breakfast star.
For the Batter
- Whole Wheat Pastry Flour – Provides fiber and a wholesome base; can substitute with all-purpose flour.
- Brown Sugar – Offers sweetness and moisture; consider coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture.
- Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Cloves, Ginger) – Enhances the flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- Shredded Carrot – Adds moisture and natural sweetness; grated zucchini is a great substitute.
- Shredded Coconut – Contributes texture and sweetness; feel free to omit for a coconut-free version.
- Red Apple – Provides freshness and moisture; choose a crisp variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp.
- Dried Cranberries – Adds sweetness and chewiness; raisins work well if you prefer.
- Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- Vegetable Oil – Keeps muffins moist; yogurt can be used for a lighter option.
- Orange Juice – Infuses moisture and bright flavor; apple juice can also do the trick.
- Vanilla Extract – Boosts overall flavor profile.
For the Candied Pecan Topping
- Chopped Pecans – Adds richness and a satisfying crunch; walnuts can be used as a substitution.
- Sunflower Seeds – Provides extra crunch and nutrition; these can be omitted for nut-free muffins.
- Honey – Helps bind the topping together with natural sweetness; substitute with maple syrup if desired.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Offers moisture to the topping; melted butter can alter texture slightly.
These ingredients combine to create not just any muffin, but a memorable breakfast experience that nourishes and satisfies. Enjoy the process of baking these Morning Glory Muffins, knowing that each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering that delightful balance of health and flavor!
How to Make Morning Glory Muffins with Candied Pecan Topping
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Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your muffin pans by greasing them or lining them with paper liners. This will ensure your muffins release beautifully and stay moist.
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Bake the topping: In a lined sheet pan, combine the chopped pecans, sunflower seeds, honey, and olive oil. Bake for 4 minutes, then stir the mixture and continue baking until golden brown, about 2-3 more minutes. Keep a close eye on them!
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Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat pastry flour, brown sugar, baking soda, ground spices, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients will establish the base for your muffins and provide a nice rise.
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Fold in the goodness: Add in the shredded carrots, shredded coconut (if using), diced apple, and dried cranberries. Mix everything gently until well combined, allowing the flavors to mingle deliciously.
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Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the large eggs, vegetable oil, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Once mixed, pour this wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir until just moistened—don’t overmix!
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Fill muffin tins: Spoon the batter into the muffin tins, filling each cup almost to the top. Sprinkle the candied pecan mixture along with a pinch of Turbinado sugar on top for an extra crunch and sweetness.
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Bake to perfection: Place the muffin trays in the preheated oven and bake for 25-28 minutes. Your muffins are ready when they’ve risen beautifully, have a golden brown top, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and enjoy: Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delightful muffins warm or at room temperature!
Optional: Serve with a dollop of cream cheese or butter for an extra touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Morning Glory Muffins
Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours for best flavor and texture.
Fridge: If keeping longer, refrigerate the muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but be mindful that they may become slightly drier.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze muffins individually wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave for about 15-20 seconds to enjoy freshly heated Morning Glory Muffins at any time!
Morning Glory Muffin Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these muffins to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and sunflower seeds, using pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch instead.
- Sugar-Free: Experiment with erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of brown sugar for a low-calorie option.
- Fruit Swap: Replace dried cranberries with chopped fresh blueberries or diced peaches for a fruity twist.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely grated ginger for an unexpected kick of warmth,
perfect for those who enjoy a little heat. - Coconut-Free: Simply omit the shredded coconut if you’re avoiding coconut; the muffins will still be incredibly moist.
- Whole Grain Boost: Substitute half of the whole wheat flour with oat flour for an extra dose of fiber and nutrition.
- Vegan Version: Use flax eggs instead of large eggs and switch honey for agave syrup to make these muffins vegan-friendly.
With these variations in mind, exploring new flavors and ideas can make each batch a delightful surprise!
Make Ahead Options
These Morning Glory Muffins with Candied Pecan Topping are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the muffin batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The candied pecan topping can also be made ahead; simply refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and fill your muffin tins with the refrigerated batter, topping with the pecan mixture just before baking. This ensures your muffins are just as delicious and fresh as if you baked them the same day, saving you time on busy mornings.
What to Serve with Candied Pecan Morning Glory Muffins?
Warm, comforting, and wholesome, these muffins create the perfect centerpiece for a delightful breakfast spread.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a light, refreshing balance to the rich muffins. The burst of natural sweetness lifts your mood and starts the day off right.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Creamy Greek yogurt layered with honey and berries complements the muffins beautifully, providing protein that pairs perfectly with their hearty texture.
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Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea accentuates flavors, creating a perfect excuse to linger over breakfast and savor every bite.
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Scrambled Eggs: A fluffy scramble adds protein and a savory touch that nicely contrasts the sweet muffins. This combination fuels you up for a busy day ahead.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup elevates the muffins into a decadent treat that strikes a delicious balance between sweet and nutty.
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Dried Fruit Mix: A handful of dried apricots or figs offers an additional layer of sweetness, making every bite an adventure and enhancing the muffin’s flavor profile.
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Coconut Chai Smoothie: This creamy drink’s spicy undertones complement the candied pecan topping while providing a refreshing and nutritious option.
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Cinnamon Sugar Toast: A slice of warm toast topped with cinnamon sugar echoes the warm spices in the muffins and adds a crunchy texture to your breakfast table.
Indulging in these delightful pairings not only complements the Morning Glory Muffins with Candied Pecan Topping but also transforms your breakfast into a delightful feast!
Expert Tips for Morning Glory Muffins
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Mix Gently: Don’t overmix the batter; stir until just combined for the perfect texture in your Morning Glory Muffins.
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Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if muffins are done—insert it into the center and it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, not wet batter.
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Customize Freely: Feel free to swap dried cranberries for raisins or experiment with nut varieties to make these muffins uniquely yours.
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Moisture Matters: Ensure your wet ingredients (like eggs and oil) are at room temperature to create a moist and fluffy muffin.
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Cool Properly: Allow muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack; this keeps them from getting soggy.
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Storage Tip: For best taste and texture, consume your Morning Glory Muffins within 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage.
Morning Glory Muffins with Candied Pecan Topping Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for these muffins?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose carrots that are firm and crunchy, avoiding any that seem soft or blemished. Select a red apple, like Fuji or Honeycrisp, that feels crisp and heavy for its size. When picking dried cranberries, look for ones that are plump and vibrant, as this signifies freshness. These quality ingredients will enhance the flavor and texture of your Morning Glory Muffins with Candied Pecan Topping!
How should I store leftover muffins, and how long will they last?
Store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours; they’ll be perfectly moist and delicious! If you need to keep them longer, transfer them to the refrigerator, but note they’ll last up to 3 days there with a slightly drier texture. Make sure to seal them tight to maintain freshness!
Can I freeze these muffins, and what’s the best method?
Definitely! For freezing, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave them for 15-20 seconds. This way, you can have warm, fresh muffins anytime you crave them!
What if my muffins come out too dry or dense?
Very! If your Morning Glory Muffins with Candied Pecan Topping end up too dry, it might be due to overmixing the batter or not measuring flour accurately. Make sure to stir the batter gently until just combined—this helps keep the muffins light and moist. Also, ensure your wet ingredients are at room temperature, as that too makes a difference. Next time, try to check your oven temperature, as baking at too high a heat can also lead to dryness.
Are these muffins safe for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! To make nut-free muffins, simply omit the pecans and sunflower seeds in the recipe. Additionally, you can replace them with seeds like pumpkin or add more dried fruits for added texture and flavor. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they’re safe for those with allergies, and choose alternative storage options if cross-contamination is a concern.
Can my pets enjoy these muffins too?
Very! While some ingredients like carrots and apples are great for pets in moderation, it’s important to note that other components (like sugar and honey) can be harmful to them. My advice would be to keep these muffins for your human friends and family, but feel free to give your pet a small piece of the carrot or apple (unprocessed) as a treat!
Delicious Morning Glory Muffins with Crunchy Candied Pecan Topping
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare muffin pans
- In a lined sheet pan, combine pecans, sunflower seeds, honey, and olive oil. Bake for 4 minutes, stir, and continue baking until golden brown for about 2-3 more minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat pastry flour, brown sugar, baking soda, ground spices, and salt.
- Fold in the shredded carrots, shredded coconut, diced apple, and dried cranberries until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, vegetable oil, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Pour into dry ingredients and stir until just moistened.
- Spoon the batter into muffin tins, filling each almost to the top. Sprinkle with the candied pecan mixture and Turbinado sugar for crunch.
- Bake for 25-28 minutes until muffins rise beautifully and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.