Hearty Breakfast Muffins Recipe

Hearty Breakfast Muffins Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 carrots, shredded
  • 2 bananas, mashed
  • 1 zucchini, shredded
  • cup vegetable oil
  • cup yogurt
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoons baking soda
  • cup packed brown sugar
  • cup rolled oats
  • cup shredded coconut
  • cup chopped pecans
  • cup dried cherries
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • teaspoon ground ginger

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Grease 12 muffin cups or line them with paper liners.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carrots, mashed bananas, shredded zucchini, vegetable oil, yogurt, and eggs. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour and baking soda.
  4. To the flour mixture, add the brown sugar, rolled oats, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, dried cherries, ground cinnamon, salt, and ground ginger. Stir until all dry ingredients are evenly coated with flour.
  5. Gently fold the banana mixture into the flour mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the tops of the muffins spring back when lightly pressed.
  8. Let the muffins cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 227
  • Total Fat: 10g (13% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 2g (11% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 31mg (10% DV)
  • Sodium: 388mg (17% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 32g (12% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g (14% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 17g
  • Protein: 5g (9% DV)
  • Vitamin C: 5mg (6% DV)
  • Calcium: 42mg (3% DV)
  • Iron: 1mg (6% DV)
  • Potassium: 265mg (6% DV)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information may vary based on ingredient choices.

Hearty Breakfast Muffins

Hearty Breakfast Muffins are a delicious and nutritious way to begin your day. Packed with vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, these muffins offer a balanced combination of flavors and textures. From the sweetness of ripe bananas to the subtle crunch of pecans, this recipe is a versatile favorite for breakfast or a mid-day snack. But what makes these muffins truly special? Let's take a closer look at the history, regional variations, and interesting facts surrounding this wholesome treat.

History of the Hearty Breakfast Muffin

The concept of a muffin, particularly a quick bread that doesn't require yeast, dates back to the early 19th century. Initially, muffins in the United States were different from their British counterparts, which were often cooked on a griddle. American muffins, baked in an oven, were influenced by English and Dutch settlers who brought with them recipes for simple breads and cakes. Over the decades, recipes evolved to include a variety of ingredientsfruits, nuts, and even vegetablesto enhance the flavor and nutrition of these treats. Hearty breakfast muffins are a modern iteration of this trend, reflecting our growing interest in healthy, nutrient-dense foods that are easy to prepare and perfect for busy mornings.

Regional Variations

While hearty breakfast muffins can be found across the United States, they are particularly popular in regions with abundant produce, like the Pacific Northwest and California. The inclusion of vegetables such as zucchini and carrots makes these muffins a great way to incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients. In other parts of the country, you'll find different variations that use locally grown fruits like apples or berries, while in the South, you might encounter versions that include cornmeal or pecans for added texture. The versatility of this muffin recipe allows for substitutions based on regional ingredients or personal preferences.

How Hearty Breakfast Muffins Differ from Similar Dishes

Hearty breakfast muffins stand apart from other muffins due to their inclusion of vegetables and the balance of sweet and savory flavors. While many traditional muffins are primarily sweet (like blueberry or banana nut), these breakfast muffins offer a more complex profile with the addition of carrots, zucchini, and even ginger. They also differ from "zucchini bread" in that they are made in individual portions, which can be easily adjusted in terms of size and toppings. Unlike many store-bought muffins that can be high in sugar and fats, this recipe uses wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, oats, and unsweetened applesauce to reduce the calorie count while maintaining flavor.

Where Are Hearty Breakfast Muffins Typically Served?

These muffins are a favorite for breakfast, especially in homes where busy mornings require a quick and healthy option. They are commonly served alongside a cup of coffee or tea and can be packed in lunchboxes or enjoyed as a snack on the go. Hearty breakfast muffins are also a popular choice for brunch gatherings or family get-togethers, where guests can enjoy a variety of baked goods. In more health-conscious cafes, you may find versions of this muffin made with gluten-free flour, plant-based oils, or other substitutions that cater to dietary needs.

Fun Facts About Hearty Breakfast Muffins

  • Did you know that zucchini, one of the key ingredients in these muffins, is a type of squash that originates from the Americas? It was first cultivated by indigenous peoples long before it became a kitchen staple in the modern world.
  • Despite being savory in nature, the addition of sweet ingredients like ripe bananas and dried fruit balances the flavors, making these muffins a perfect example of sweet and savory fusion.
  • These muffins are not just deliciousthey're also highly customizable! You can swap out the dried cherries for cranberries, add nuts or seeds for extra protein, or even add spices like nutmeg for a seasonal twist.
  • The use of oats in these muffins adds not only texture but also a dose of soluble fiber, which is known to help lower cholesterol and improve digestion.

Whether you're making them to enjoy with your morning coffee or as a convenient snack throughout the day, these hearty breakfast muffins are a great way to start your day on a healthy note. Try experimenting with the ingredients and see what unique twist you can add to make this recipe your own!

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FAQ about Hearty Breakfast Muffins Recipe

Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply wrap each muffin in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm them in the oven.

Yes! Many users have successfully substituted ingredients. For example, you can replace vegetable oil with applesauce, use almond flour instead of wheat flour, or swap dried cherries for raisins or cranberries. You can also add or omit vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as spinach instead of zucchini or sweet potatoes instead of carrots.

This could be due to the moisture content in the vegetables, especially zucchini. Make sure to thoroughly drain any excess moisture from shredded zucchini and carrots. Additionally, you might need to adjust the dry ingredients (e.g., add a bit more flour or oats) to balance the moisture level.

You can adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce or eliminate the brown sugar. Alternatively, if you want them sweeter, you can increase the amount of sugar or use a sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Many users also recommend cutting back on sugar if you're adding fruit, as it provides enough natural sweetness.

Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with any other nut such as walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds. For a nut-free version, you can use seeds like pumpkin or chia seeds.

Yes, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many people have had success using almond flour or a mix of rice flour and tapioca flour. Just be aware that you may need to adjust the amount of liquid or dry ingredients depending on the type of flour you use.

You can replace the yogurt with an equal amount of applesauce, sour cream, or even buttermilk. These substitutes will still provide moisture and help the muffins rise.

Yes, these muffins freeze very well! Simply allow them to cool completely, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a quick snack.

Make sure to fill your muffin cups only about 2/3 full. If you fill them too much, the muffins might overflow. Additionally, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer, as uneven heating can sometimes cause baking issues.

You can check if the muffins are done by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If the toothpick is covered in batter, bake them for a few more minutes and test again.

Comments

Jeffrey Mitchell

03/15/2024 01:37:33 PM

I've made these muffins twice and got fantastic results each time. My only issue with the recipe is the vague instruction of "one zucchini," especially when the ones from my parents' garden are huge this year. I've tried using 2-3 cups of zucchini instead, and it turned out just fine. What I appreciate most is that these muffins freeze beautifully, making them a convenient snack for work. I've also swapped applesauce for the oil and used chocolate chips instead of cherries, both substitutions worked wonderfully for me!

Ruth Gonzalez

04/29/2023 11:25:56 AM

I have made this recipe numerous times, hardly ever following it exactly as written. However, I still give it 5 stars because it serves as a great foundation for creating your own healthy muffins. Some of the modifications I typically make include using almond flour instead of wheat flour for lower carbs and higher protein and fiber content, omitting the sugar as the added sweetness from fruits is usually sufficient, and utilizing whatever ingredients I have available. I always ensure to maintain the balance between wet and dry ingredients and keep the proportions of essential components like salt, baking soda, and eggs consistent.

Jeffrey Campbell

11/14/2024 06:09:17 PM

Great recipe! I omitted cranberries since my husband isn't a fan of cooked raisins or cranberries, but they would be a tasty addition. I doubled the batch and used five ripe bananas and two large finely shredded carrots. The recipe yielded 24 regular-sized muffins and 22 mini muffins! Only ten mini muffins are left as the kids couldn't get enough of them. These muffins are not overly sweet but incredibly delicious. I filled the muffin cups 4/5 full, and they didn't spill over. The mini muffins baked for 20 minutes, the regular ones for about 25 minutes, and the ones in silicone cups on a baking sheet baked for 30 minutes.

Jessica Green

07/14/2024 04:46:26 PM

I decided to make a larger batch of these muffins to use up the excess carrots and zucchini from our garden. Instead of oil, I used applesauce that was sitting in my fridge. Opted for the gluten-free flour mix from Costco. Found that I had to add an extra egg after the first batch turned out slightly mushy. However, my daughter absolutely adored them!

Betty Ramirez

09/16/2023 07:46:11 AM

I adjusted the original muffin recipe by adding extra dry ingredients and baking powder to combat the issue of wetness in the middle. The initial batch did not rise well and was undercooked, but with the modifications, the muffins came out perfectly rounded and fully cooked. I recommend increasing the dry ingredient measurements when adding zucchini, bananas, and carrots to the mix. I found that adding 1 tsp of baking powder helped improve the texture. The muffins turned out to be a hit with my kids and earned a solid 5-star rating. They are not overly sweet but offer great texture and flavor, making them a delightful accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. I substituted sliced almonds for pecans and it worked wonderfully.

Melissa Martinez

12/06/2023 11:20:18 PM

Due to missing some ingredients, I made some small swaps in this recipe: I used craisins instead of cherries, sweet potato instead of zucchini, and coconut sugar instead of brown sugar. I also included an extra 1/4 cup of rolled oats and mixed in some dark chocolate chips. The muffins were done baking in 18-20 minutes. I had extra batter for 6 muffins, so I baked the remainder in mini loaf pans for a slightly longer time. The result was delicious!

Kenneth Wilson

06/22/2023 09:16:40 AM

I'm constantly on the lookout for healthier options for my diabetic husband. I tried making these muffins last night so he could enjoy them with his morning coffee. He absolutely loved them! After reading through some reviews, I decided to give them a shot with the ingredients I had in my pantry. I used just 1 banana, replaced the oil with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, opted for 1/4 cup of Truvia instead of brown sugar, swapped pecans for sunflower seeds, cherries for raisins, and reduced the salt to 1/2 teaspoon. Following another reviewer's advice, I baked them at 350 degrees for 20 minutes, then allowed them to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a rack to cool completely. They turned out perfectly! Not overly sweet and incredibly tasty. I'll definitely be making them again!

Emily Lopez

04/20/2023 04:00:31 PM

Review: I absolutely love this recipe! It has become my new favorite breakfast muffin recipe, and I love that I can use up all the random ingredients hiding in my pantry. If no one is eating the last bits of trail mix, no worries - I simply reduce the sugar a bit and swap out yogurt for applesauce, and the muffins still turn out delicious! On occasions when we're out of zucchini, I've even added a couple of handfuls of spinach instead. I blend the produce in my blender for ease, and the muffins come together effortlessly! Both my toddlers and I devour these muffins with joy. Highly recommend trying it out!

Maria Adams

01/09/2025 01:14:32 AM

These cookies turned out delicious! I made a few modifications by using a mixture of THM baking blend and whole wheat flour, replacing brown sugar with a combination of THM super sweet and molasses. I skipped the coconut flakes since I'm not a fan of coconut, and instead added dried cranberries and walnuts. To boost the protein content, I incorporated 2 scoops of protein powder. Next time, I suggest covering the cookies with foil and baking them for an additional 10 minutes to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.

Kathleen Wilson

09/06/2023 09:03:06 AM

Absolutely adore these! I only had one banana on hand, so I decided to incorporate grated apple as a substitute. I also included half a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Opted for raisins instead of dried cherries, and the result was fantastic.

Donald Sanchez

02/18/2024 10:58:14 PM

I made a small adjustment by substituting oil with unsweetened applesauce, as I always do in my recipes to reduce calories, and the muffins turned out amazing! The texture was spot on, and they baked perfectly in 20 minutes. Next time, I might add a bit more spice for extra flavor. For those who faced issues with undercooked muffins, make sure to thoroughly drain the moisture from the zucchini to prevent excess moisture in the bread, especially if using garden-fresh zucchinis. Looking forward to making these muffins again!

Victoria Scott

04/28/2023 04:28:45 PM

I prepare these regularly. To boost the health factor, I swap out brown sugar for maple syrup and double the amount of yogurt while skipping the oil. I also increase the veggies by twice the amount and mix in half a cup of chia seeds. The result is incredibly tasty. For an extra kick, add more ginger!

Michelle Wright

05/04/2023 09:56:19 AM

This recipe includes both vegetables and fruit. While it requires some effort to prepare them, the muffins turn out moist and fluffy. I particularly enjoyed the flavor, although I wish they had risen a bit more as they ended up somewhat flat. Next time, I plan to fill the muffin cups a little fuller for better results.

Catherine Flores

09/16/2024 07:37:53 AM

I substituted spelt flour for wheat and skipped the cherries since I didn't have any. I plan to add raisins next time. Absolutely delicious!

Melissa Clark

07/27/2023 11:24:43 PM

I made this recipe yesterday and it was absolutely delicious! I didn't have any bananas on hand, so I didn't substitute them. Instead, I used 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of whole wheat flour since I didn't have rolled oats. The result was perfect, I highly recommend this recipe.

Kathleen Hall

07/07/2023 02:29:54 AM

These were absolutely incredible! My family, who are usually very selective eaters, all adored them! They were fantastic! I decided to add a bit more oats and cinnamon for extra flavor. After making the first batch, I couldn't resist making two more!

Kelly Sanchez

11/19/2023 09:28:13 PM

I made these muffins in an attempt to incorporate more vegetables into my toddler's diet, and he absolutely loves them! It's a delightful treat for the whole family. I decided in advance to make 24 muffins instead of 12 with this recipe to make them smaller for my little one. The batch turned out perfectly for 24 muffins, filling them about a centimeter below the top of the muffin pan. This helped prevent them from becoming too mushy, as some others have noted. I baked them for 22 minutes at 350 degrees, and they turned out just right - moist, convenient, and delicious!

Brian Brown

10/30/2023 03:47:17 PM

The recipe was a bit unclear about the zucchini and carrot quality, but the dish turned out fantastic. I swapped sweet potato for the carrot and included 1/4 cup of flaxseed flour. I used raisins instead of cherries and hemp seeds instead of nuts due to nut allergies in our household. Overall, it was very delicious!

Ashley Green

11/29/2022 08:08:02 PM

I followed the recipe exactly as written, but I swapped honey for the brown sugar. The result was absolutely delicious. I baked them for 18 minutes.