Ingredients
– 2 cups whole wheat flour for structure and rise
– 2 teaspoons baking soda for structure and rise
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/3 cup ground flaxseed (optional)
– 3 large eggs for moisture and sweetness
– 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar for moisture and sweetness
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/3 cup vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted coconut oil
– 1/3 cup unsweetened smooth applesauce
– 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
– 1/3 cup orange juice or pineapple juice
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups shredded carrots for nutrition and flavor
– 1 cup shredded apple for nutrition and flavor
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup unsalted chopped pecans
Instructions
1-Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. Gather all ingredients, ensuring substitutions for dietary needs are ready, which takes about 30 minutes total preparation.
2-In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour, 2 teaspoons baking soda, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
3-In another bowl, beat the wet ingredients: 3 large eggs, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup honey, 1/3 cup oil, 1/3 cup applesauce, 1 teaspoon orange zest (if using), 1/3 cup orange juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well blended.
4-Stir in the add-ins: 2 cups shredded carrots, 1 cup shredded apple, 1/2 cup raisins, and 1/2 cup chopped pecans into the wet mixture for even distribution, boosting the fresh fruits aspect.
5-Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently by hand to combine without overmixing, as no mixer is needed.
6-Pour the batter into the lined muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full to allow for rising, then bake for 24 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7-Remove from the oven and cool the muffins in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. For added inspiration, check out our fluffy Japanese souffle pancakes recipe for more baking ideas.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🥄 Mix batter by hand gently to keep muffins tender.
🌰 Pecan nuts can be substituted with walnuts or omitted for nut-free version.
🍎 Use fresh, firm apples for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
