Healthy and Delicious Whole Wheat Carrot Cake Muffins Recipe
Muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. This whole wheat carrot muffins recipe is not only tasty but also packed with wholesome ingredients that provide a nutritious boost to your day. With a blend of whole wheat flour, carrots, apples, and nuts, these muffins offer a perfect balance of flavor and health benefits. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how you can whip up these delicious muffins in no time.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups (260g) whole wheat flour (measured correctly)
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup (35g) ground flax (optional)
- 1/2 cup (64g) unsalted chopped pecans, such as Diamond of California
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (85g) honey
- 1/3 cup (80ml) vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted coconut oil
- 1/3 cup (60g) smooth applesauce
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice or pineapple juice (I prefer orange)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (75g) raisins, soaked in warm water for 10 minutes
- 2 cups (260g) shredded carrots (about 4 large)
- 1 cup (140g) shredded/grated apple (about 1 apple)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Prepare a 12-count muffin pan by spraying it with nonstick spray or using greased/sprayed cupcake liners. Since this recipe makes 16 muffins, you’ll need a second muffin pan prepared in the same manner.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, salt, ground flax (if using), and chopped pecans until combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, honey, oil, applesauce, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir a few times to start combining, then add the soaked raisins, shredded carrots, and grated apple. Gently fold everything together just until no flour pockets remain.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Liners
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin liners, filling them all the way to the top. This ensures a nice, full muffin.
Step 6: Bake the Muffins
Place the muffins in the preheated oven and bake at 425°F (218°C) for 5 minutes. Without opening the oven door, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) and continue baking for an additional 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The total baking time should be about 23-24 minutes.
Step 7: Cool the Muffins
Allow the muffins to cool in the muffin pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free.
- Sugar Alternatives: You can replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia for a lower sugar option.
- Storage: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Health Benefits
- Whole Wheat Flour: Provides more fiber and nutrients compared to refined flour, helping with digestion and overall health.
- Carrots and Apples: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support a healthy immune system and promote good vision and skin health.
- Nuts and Flax: Packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, contributing to heart health and keeping you feeling full longer.
Nutritional Information (per muffin)
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 12g
Recipe Suggestions
- Breakfast: Enjoy a muffin with a cup of coffee or tea for a quick and nutritious breakfast.
- Snack: Pack a muffin in your lunchbox or as a mid-afternoon snack to keep your energy levels up.
- Dessert: Serve these muffins warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for a healthier dessert option.
These whole wheat carrot muffins are a delightful and healthy treat that you can enjoy any time of the day. With their moist texture, rich flavor, and nutritious ingredients, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!