Carrot Apple Muffins

These Carrot Apple Muffins are a twist on a classic carrot muffin. They are flavourful, moist and filled with healthy fibre-rich foods!

Baking muffins is one of my favourite past times. It’s relaxing (for me) and leaves me with the best handheld snack that’s great for when I’m on the go! They can also be paired with a variety of other foods to bulk up the snack and make it even more filling, if needed. These muffins also make a delicious dessert and can be topped with Greek yogurt, ice cream, cream cheese icing or whipped cream for a fun twist!

 

Ingredients you need

There’s nothing special about this ingredient list. All you need is:

• Carrot
  • Don’t forget to wash and peel the carrots before shredding them.
• Apple
  • I also recommend removing the peel from the apple to make it easier to bite into once the muffin is baked.
• Flour
  • I recommend using all purpose flour in this recipe but you can substitute it for whole wheat flour if you prefer
  • Gluten-free version: use a 1-to-1 gluten-free all purpose baking flour in the same amount that is called for.
• Sugar
  • This recipe uses white granulated sugar but brown sugar can also work here if you only have that available.
  • I do not recommend using a liquid sugar (ex. maple syrup or honey) instead of granulated or brown sugar, because this will alter the consistency of the batter.
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil
  • I typically use canola or a mild olive oil. You could also use melted coconut oil if you prefer a coconut taste.
• Vanilla extract
• Baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt
• Walnuts and coconut (optional)
  • Adding walnuts is a great way to add a crunchy texture to the muffins. You could also use sliced almonds or crushed pecans instead.
  • Sprinkling in some sweetened coconut flakes or shreds is an easy way to add another layer of flavour. You can omit this altogether though if preferred.

Shredding carrots and apples

Sometimes recipes with too many steps can be overwhelming and prevent me from making the dish. I hope this isn’t the case with these Carrot Apple Muffins. I know the shredding process can be tedious but there are options to make it easier!

As previously mentioned, make sure you wash and peel the carrots and apples before shredding them. 

I like using larger carrots so if I’m using a box grater, it’s easier to hold onto them. With the apple, I chop it into quarters, remove the seeds and then use the grater.

Alternatively, if you have a food processor, you can use the shredding attachment. This helps reduce the time and muscle work needed with a box grater. You can throw the carrots and apple into the food processor and watch as the machine shreds the ingredients in seconds!

 

How to make Carrot Apple Muffins

Once you have the ingredients out, the carrot and apple shredded, the steps are very straightforward! 

1. In a large bowl, mix together the wet ingredients and fold in the grated apple and carrot.
2. In a separate bowl, stir together the dry ingredients. Add this to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
3. You can then fold in the optional ingredients like walnuts and coconut flakes, if using.
4. Distribute the batter evenly amongst a lined muffin tin and bake until golden brown. Once baked through, allow them to sit for 5-10 minutes to cool slightly before enjoying!

 

Gluten free version

To make these muffins gluten free, you just need a simple substitution. I recommend using a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour instead of regular all purpose flour. Use the same amount of gluten free flour that’s called for and it should turn out very similarly!

Should carrot cake have raisins in it?

Traditionally, carrot cake and muffins have raisins and walnuts. However, we want to bake and cook foods that we genuinely enjoy. 

I include walnuts in this Carrot Apple Muffins recipe because I find the added crunchy texture is a nice contrast to the cake-like muffin. The walnuts can also provide a bit of protein, healthy fats and fibre. I do not include raisins because I’m not a big fan of them.

If you don’t like raisins and/or walnuts, you can absolutely leave them out of this recipe.

 

How long do muffins last when stored in containers?

There are a few ways to store these Carrot Apple Muffins. This all depends on how quickly you plan to consume them!

If you’re baking a batch to be served within 1-3 days, I would keep them in an airtight container or bag on the counter, as long as the temperature is relatively cool.

If it’s hot in your kitchen or if you need the muffins to last more than 3 days, I recommend storing them in an airtight container or bag in the fridge.

For storage that lasts more than 3 days, simply put the muffins in a large Ziploc bag and toss them in the freezer! They will stay good for at least 3 months. When you want to eat them, either take them out in advance and thaw them on the counter or pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. 

Make these Carrot Apple Muffins higher in protein

Protein is a nutrient that helps keep us full and satisfied. When we make an effort to include sufficient amounts of protein throughout the day, we can not only help support our fullness but also our energy levels.

These muffins contain a bit of protein but there are ways to bulk it up even more!

• Make sure to include the chopped walnuts or any other type of nut or seed
• Once they are baked, you can pair these muffins with Greek yogurt. Either spread it on top or toss it all in a bowl!
• Spread nut butter on top of the muffin
• Add a handful of nuts or seeds on the side of the muffin
• Wash it all down with a glass of dairy or soy milk!

 

What are some unique recipes using apples?

I love using apples in a variety of baked goods and other recipes. Here are a few of my favourite recipes that include apples:

• Apple Cinnamon Muffins
• Apple Pie Overnight Oats
• Harvest Apple Cinnamon Nut Bars

I hope you love these Carrot Apple Muffins. Don’t forget to check out some of these other muffin recipes for more variety:

• Oatmeal Pear Muffins
• Blueberry Rosemary Muffins
• Lemon Coconut Muffins
• Mocha Banana Muffins
• Morning Glory Muffins
• Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

 

If you make these Carrot Apple Muffins, I would love to see your comment and rating below. It also makes my day seeing your creations of my recipes on Instagram- don’t forget to tag @allnutrition.rd!