This Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffins recipe is a great way to incorporate vegetables and whole grains into a delicious snack or breakfast item. The combination of zucchini and yogurt adds moisture to these muffins, making them irresistibly soft. This is a great choice for those who love to start their day on a healthy and delicious note.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are probably already in your pantry. However, you might not commonly have oat flour or plain yogurt. Oat flour is a nutritious and gluten-free alternative to wheat flour. You can find it in the gluten-free or baking section of most supermarkets. As for the plain yogurt, it is usually found in the dairy section. It adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the muffins. Make sure to pick an unflavored and unsweetened variety.
Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffin Ingredients
All-purpose flour: The base of the muffins, adding structure.
Whole wheat flour: Adds fiber and a nutty flavor to the muffins.
Oat flour: Provides a soft, tender texture to the muffins.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Baking soda and baking powder: Leavening agents that help the muffins rise.
Cinnamon, nutmeg: Spices that add a warm and sweet flavor.
Eggs: Act as a binding agent and provide structure.
Vegetable oil, applesauce: Adds moisture to the muffins.
Plain yogurt: Adds a tangy flavor and tender texture.
White sugar, honey: Sweeteners that also add moisture.
Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.
Zucchini: Adds moisture and a mild flavor. Also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies.
Carrots: Adds a sweet flavor and additional moisture.
Pecans: Add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Raisins: Add a burst of sweetness and chewy texture.
One reader, Clark Crooks says:
These zucchini yogurt multigrain muffins are a game-changer! The combination of zucchini, carrots, and pecans makes them incredibly moist and flavorful. The use of yogurt and honey adds a delightful tangy sweetness. They're a wholesome treat that's perfect for breakfast or a snack. I highly recommend trying this recipe!
Techniques Required for Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffins
How to prepare the muffin batter: Mixing the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in tough muffins.
How to fold in the zucchini, carrots, pecans, and raisins: Gently incorporating the ingredients into the batter using a spatula, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
How To Make Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffins
These tasty multigrain muffins are healthy, as they’re made of zucchini, carrots, whole wheat flour, and more. A batch can be made in under 1 hour.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cupsall-purpose flour
- ¾cupwhole wheat flour
- ¾cupoat flour
- 1tspsalt
- 1tspbaking soda
- 1tspbaking powder
- 2½tspcinnamon,ground
- ¼tspnutmeg,ground
- 3eggs
- ½cupvegetable oil
- ½cupapplesauce,unsweetened
- 1cupplain yogurt
- 1cupwhite sugar
- ¾cuphoney
- 2tspvanilla extract
- 1cupzucchini,shredded
- 1cupcarrots,shredded
- ½cuppecans,chopped, optional
- ½cupraisins,optional
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.. Lightly grease 24 muffin cups.
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In a bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, oat flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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In a separate bowl, beat together eggs, vegetable oil, applesauce, yogurt, sugar, honey, and vanilla.
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Mix the flour mixture into the egg mixture.
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Fold in the zucchini, carrots, pecans, and raisins. Scoop into the prepared muffin cups.
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Bake for 18 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven, until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean.
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Cool for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Nutrition
- Calories: 204.22kcal
- Fat: 7.52g
- Saturated Fat: 0.91g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.60g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.55g
- Carbohydrates: 32.59g
- Fiber: 1.55g
- Sugar: 20.34g
- Protein: 3.25g
- Cholesterol: 21.32mg
- Sodium: 175.42mg
- Calcium: 42.94mg
- Potassium: 129.33mg
- Iron: 0.98mg
- Vitamin A: 54.47µg
- Vitamin C: 2.51mg
Crucial Technique for Perfect Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffins
When grating the zucchini and carrots for this recipe, make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture. This will prevent the muffins from becoming too soggy. Also, toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter can enhance their flavor and give the muffins a delightful crunch.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffins
Prep ahead: Prepare the zucchini and carrots the night before and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to save time on the day of baking.
One-bowl method: Use a large mixing bowl to combine the wet and dry ingredients together, reducing the number of dishes to clean up.
Batch baking: Double the recipe and freeze the extra muffins for a quick and convenient breakfast or snack option.
Organized workspace: Gather all the ingredients and utensils needed before starting to streamline the cooking process.
Multitasking: While the muffins are baking, use that time to clean up the kitchen and wash the dishes to save time later.
Substitute Ingredients For Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffins Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the muffins, making them slightly healthier.
whole wheat flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can create a lighter texture in the muffins and may be preferred for those who do not enjoy the taste of whole wheat flour.
oat flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can add a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the muffins, as well as increasing the protein content.
vegetable oil - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a healthier alternative to reduce the fat content in the muffins while adding natural sweetness and moisture.
plain yogurt - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt has a thicker consistency and higher protein content, which can enhance the texture and nutritional value of the muffins.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add natural sweetness and moisture to the muffins, and it also provides additional nutrients and antioxidants.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can provide a similar nutty flavor and crunch to the muffins, and they are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can offer a tart and sweet flavor to the muffins, adding a different dimension of taste compared to raisins.
Presenting Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffins
Elevate the plating: When presenting the zucchini yogurt multigrain muffins, ensure that the plating is elegant and visually appealing. Use a clean, white plate to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the muffins.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the plate with delicate, edible flowers such as pansies or nasturtiums. This not only adds a pop of color but also brings a subtle floral aroma to the dish.
Incorporate a drizzle of honey: Create an artful drizzle of honey on the plate to add a touch of sweetness and visual interest. This will enhance the overall presentation and complement the flavors of the muffins.
Utilize microgreens: Sprinkle a few carefully placed microgreens, such as pea shoots or radish sprouts, around the plate to add a fresh, vibrant element to the presentation.
Consider the use of a dusting of cinnamon: Lightly dust the plate with a fine sprinkle of cinnamon to add a warm, aromatic element to the presentation, enhancing the sensory experience for the diners.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the muffins in a symmetrical and visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring that each component is thoughtfully placed to create a balanced and harmonious presentation.
Add a touch of elegance with gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, consider delicately placing a small piece of edible gold leaf on the plate to elevate the presentation and add a hint of opulence.
Incorporate a contrasting element: Introduce a contrasting element, such as a small dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, to create visual interest and enhance the overall composition of the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Multigrain Muffins
- Mixing bowl: A large, sturdy bowl used for combining ingredients and mixing batters.
- Muffin cups: These are small paper or silicone cups used to hold the muffin batter while baking.
- Sifter: A kitchen tool used to sift dry ingredients and remove any lumps.
- Wire racks: These are used for cooling baked goods and allow air to circulate around the food.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients for baking.
- Muffin tin: A specialized baking pan with individual cup-shaped depressions used to bake muffins.
- Vegetable peeler: Used to peel the skin off vegetables like carrots.
- Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate or shred ingredients like zucchini and carrots.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible tool used for scraping batter from bowls and spreading it into muffin cups.
- Oven: Essential for baking the muffins to perfection.
Storing and Freezing Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffins
Allow the muffins to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This prevents moisture from accumulating and making the muffins soggy.
Store the cooled muffins in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Line the container or bag with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the muffins for up to 2-3 months:
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
To thaw frozen muffins, remove them from the freezer and let them defrost at room temperature for about an hour, or microwave individual muffins on low power for 30-45 seconds until warmed through.
If you prefer a crispy top on your thawed muffins, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Avoid refrigerating the zucchini yogurt multigrain muffins, as this can cause them to become dry and lose their tender texture. Room temperature or freezing are the best storage options.
How To Reheat Leftover Muffins
To reheat leftover zucchini yogurt multigrain muffins, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the muffins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method will help restore the muffins' original texture and flavor.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Cut the muffins in half and place them cut-side up on the toaster oven rack. Toast for 2-3 minutes, or until they are warm and slightly crispy. This method is quick and easy, and it works well if you only need to reheat a few muffins at a time.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can reheat the muffins in the microwave. Place a damp paper towel over the muffins and microwave them on high for 15-20 seconds per muffin. This method will help keep the muffins moist, but they may lose some of their crispiness.
For a unique twist, try slicing the leftover muffins in half and grilling them on a panini press or in a skillet with a little butter or olive oil. This will give the muffins a crispy, caramelized exterior and a soft, warm interior. Serve them with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for a delicious breakfast or snack.
If you have a large batch of leftover muffins, you can freeze them for later. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you're ready to eat them, let the muffins thaw at room temperature for about an hour, or microwave them for 30-60 seconds, depending on their size.
Interesting Fact About Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffins
The zucchini yogurt multigrain muffins recipe is a great way to incorporate vegetables into a delicious baked treat. Zucchini and carrots add moisture and nutrients to the muffins, making them a healthier option. The addition of yogurt provides a creamy texture and a boost of protein. These muffins are a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or snack option for a busy day. They can be enjoyed by the whole family and are a great way to sneak in some extra veggies into your diet.
Is This Multigrain Muffin Recipe Budget-Friendly?
This zucchini yogurt multigrain muffins recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like zucchini, carrots, and oat flour makes it budget-friendly. The addition of pecans and raisins might slightly increase the cost, but they contribute to the overall flavor and nutritional value. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a reasonable choice. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Are Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffins Healthy or Unhealthy?
The zucchini yogurt multigrain muffins recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional muffins, thanks to the inclusion of whole wheat flour, oat flour, and nutritious ingredients like zucchini, carrots, and applesauce. These ingredients provide a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The use of yogurt in the recipe also adds a boost of protein and calcium. However, the recipe still contains a significant amount of sugar and honey, which can contribute to high calorie and sugar content.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of white sugar and honey by half, or replace them with natural sweeteners like mashed ripe bananas or dates
- Increase the proportion of whole wheat and oat flour while decreasing the all-purpose flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Opt for low-fat or non-fat plain yogurt to reduce the overall fat content
- Include more zucchini and carrots for extra moisture and nutrients
- Replace the vegetable oil with healthier alternatives like coconut oil or olive oil
- Experiment with adding other nutritious ingredients like chia seeds, flax seeds, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor
Editor's Opinion on This Multigrain Muffin Recipe
This zucchini yogurt multigrain muffin recipe is a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients. The combination of whole wheat and oat flours, along with the addition of zucchini, carrots, pecans, and raisins, creates a nutritious and flavorful treat. The use of yogurt and applesauce adds moisture and a subtle tanginess, while the blend of spices enhances the overall aroma and taste. The muffins are perfect for a satisfying breakfast or a wholesome snack. The recipe's balance of flavors and textures makes it a delightful addition to any baker's repertoire.
Enhance Your Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffins Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Zucchini Yogurt Multigrain Muffins Recipe:
This recipe is a trustworthy choice for a wholesome treat. The combination of zucchini, yogurt, and multigrain flour ensures a nutritious and flavorful outcome. The inclusion of carrots and pecans adds a delightful crunch and a burst of natural sweetness. The use of applesauce and honey not only enhances the moistness but also provides a healthier alternative to refined sugars. With a blend of wholesome ingredients, these muffins are a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition.
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