Recipe 4 – Spiced Carrot Muffins with Maple Glaze

These Spiced Carrot Muffins with Maple Glaze are the perfect blend of warm spices, moist carrot goodness, and a hint of sweetness from a luscious maple glaze. Naturally sweetened and bursting with flavor, these muffins are a delightful way to enjoy a healthier, more wholesome treat. Great for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or even dessert, these muffins are a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire. Let’s get baking!

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Ingredients:

For the Muffins:

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

For the Maple Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1-2 teaspoons milk (dairy or plant-based), as needed

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with coconut oil.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. The combination of spices will infuse the muffins with a warm, cozy flavor.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla extract until well combined. The applesauce adds moisture without extra fat, keeping the muffins light and fluffy.
4. Mix the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots, nuts, and dried fruit (if using). The carrots add natural sweetness and moisture, while the nuts and dried fruits provide texture and flavor.
5. Fill the Muffin Tin: Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. This allows enough room for the muffins to rise nicely without overflowing.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The muffins should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
7. Prepare the Maple Glaze: While the muffins are baking, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and maple syrup. Add milk, one teaspoon at a time, until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. It should be thick but pourable.
8. Glaze and Serve: Once the muffins have cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle the maple glaze over the tops. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Tips for Perfect Muffins:

• Grate Your Carrots Finely: Finely grated carrots blend better into the batter and ensure a moist texture without large chunks.
• Customize Your Add-Ins: Feel free to swap out the nuts or dried fruit for your favorites. Chopped dates, shredded coconut, or even chocolate chips could make delicious additions!
• Make It Vegan: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons flaxseed meal + 6 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based milk in the glaze for a vegan-friendly version.

These Spiced Carrot Muffins with Maple Glaze are not just tasty but also packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body while satisfying your sweet tooth. With their warm spices and delightful glaze, they are perfect for any time of day. Bake a batch today and enjoy the cozy comfort of homemade goodness!