Carrot-Raisin Muffins

Carrot-Raisin Muffins Recipe from USA with Wheat Germ and Cinnamon

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30-35 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Carrot-Raisin Muffins are a delicious and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. These muffins are packed with the sweet and earthy flavors of carrots and raisins, making them a perfect choice for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional muffins.

History

Carrot-Raisin Muffins have been a popular choice for health-conscious individuals for many years. The combination of carrots and raisins provides a unique and flavorful twist on the classic muffin recipe. This recipe has been adapted and modified over the years to create a delicious and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Ingredients

nonstick vegetable spray
1 cup flour
2 tbsp toasted wheat germ
1.5 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp salt
2 tsp brown sugar substitute
1 tsp cinnamon
0.13 tsp cloves
0.13 tsp nutmeg
1.33 cups shredded carrots
0.5 cup raisins, soaked in hot water
2 eggs
2 tbsp vegetable oil

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Spray the muffin tins with cooking spray (my suggestion: use paper muffin cups as low-fat muffins tend to stick).
In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Stir in the carrots and drained raisins.
Beat the eggs with oil, then stir into the flour mixture.
Divide the batter evenly among 12 muffin tins.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Nutritional information per muffin: 105 calories, 1 starch, 0.5 fat exchange, 3 g protein, 4 g fat, 16 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 213 mg sodium, 118 mg potassium, 46 mg cholesterol.

Variations

For a twist on the classic Carrot-Raisin Muffin recipe, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different spices, such as ginger or cardamom, to create a unique and personalized muffin recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making Carrot-Raisin Muffins, be sure to shred the carrots finely to ensure that they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Additionally, be sure to drain the raisins before adding them to the batter to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of the muffins. For a healthier option, consider using paper muffin cups instead of greasing the muffin tins with cooking spray.

Serving Suggestions

Carrot-Raisin Muffins can be enjoyed on their own as a quick and easy breakfast option or as a satisfying snack. They can also be paired with a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious and comforting treat.

Cooking Techniques

When making Carrot-Raisin Muffins, be sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients together gently to avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can result in tough and dense muffins, so be sure to mix until just combined.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have wheat germ on hand, you can substitute it with ground flaxseed or oat bran for added fiber and nutrients. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

Carrot-Raisin Muffins can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave for a quick and easy breakfast option on busy mornings.

Presentation Ideas

To add a decorative touch to your Carrot-Raisin Muffins, consider sprinkling them with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese frosting. You can also top them with a few extra raisins or chopped nuts for added texture and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Carrot-Raisin Muffins pair well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. They can also be enjoyed alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Carrot-Raisin Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each Carrot-Raisin Muffin contains approximately 105 calories. This makes them a relatively low-calorie option for those looking to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging.

Carbohydrates

Each Carrot-Raisin Muffin contains approximately 16 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help to fuel your day.

Fats

Each Carrot-Raisin Muffin contains approximately 4 grams of fat. While fats are an essential nutrient for the body, it is important to consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Proteins

Each Carrot-Raisin Muffin contains approximately 3 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important component of a healthy diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Carrot-Raisin Muffins are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium and vitamin A. Potassium is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, while vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision and immune function.

Alergens

Carrot-Raisin Muffins may contain allergens such as wheat and eggs. Be sure to check the ingredient list carefully if you have any food allergies or sensitivities.

Summary

Overall, Carrot-Raisin Muffins are a nutritious and delicious treat that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, these muffins are a great choice for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional baked goods.

Summary

Carrot-Raisin Muffins are a delicious and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. Packed with the sweet and earthy flavors of carrots and raisins, these muffins are a great choice for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional baked goods. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, Carrot-Raisin Muffins are a satisfying and wholesome option for any time of day.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe for Carrot-Raisin Muffins. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret at her cozy little cottage in the countryside. Margaret was known for her delicious baked goods, and on this particular day, she had just pulled a batch of these mouthwatering muffins out of the oven.

The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly - a sweet and spicy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. I couldn't resist asking Margaret for the recipe, and she graciously agreed to share it with me.

As we sat at her kitchen table, sipping on tea and nibbling on warm muffins, Margaret began to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that she had first discovered it in an old cookbook that had belonged to her grandmother. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, with each cook adding their own twist to it.

Margaret had perfected the recipe over the years, and it had become a family favorite. She shared with me the secret to making the muffins moist and tender - a generous amount of shredded carrots and plump raisins. She also revealed that the key to their delicious flavor was the combination of warm spices and a touch of orange zest.

I listened intently as Margaret walked me through the steps of making the muffins. She showed me how to mix the dry ingredients - flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices - in one bowl, and the wet ingredients - eggs, oil, sugar, and vanilla - in another. She then demonstrated how to gently fold in the shredded carrots, raisins, and orange zest, being careful not to overmix the batter.

As we filled the muffin tins and popped them into the oven, Margaret shared with me some of her favorite memories of baking these muffins. She told me about lazy Sunday mornings spent in the kitchen with her children, and how the smell of freshly baked muffins always brought a smile to their faces.

When the muffins were finally ready, we couldn't wait to taste them. The first bite was pure bliss - the muffins were moist, tender, and bursting with flavor. The sweetness of the raisins and carrots was perfectly balanced by the warm spices, creating a truly delicious treat.

I left Margaret's cottage that day with a newfound appreciation for the art of baking and a delicious recipe to add to my collection. Over the years, I have made these Carrot-Raisin Muffins many times, each batch reminding me of that warm summer day spent in Margaret's kitchen.

As I bake these muffins now, I can't help but think of all the wonderful memories and stories that are woven into this recipe. It's a reminder that food is not just nourishment for the body, but also for the soul. And for that, I am forever grateful to my dear friend Margaret and her delicious Carrot-Raisin Muffins.