Ready for a delightful and wholesome treat? These Zucchini Blueberry Spelt Muffins offer a healthier twist on classic Healthy Blueberry Muffin Recipes, perfect for breakfast or a snack. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how delicious they taste.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Spelt Flour: You can use whole wheat pastry flour for a similar texture.
- Zucchini: No substitution needed, it adds moisture without altering the flavor.
- Blueberries: Fresh or frozen work well. If using frozen, don’t thaw them.
- Maple Syrup: Honey or agave nectar are good alternatives.
- Milk: Any plant-based milk or dairy milk will do.
Ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups spelt flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil (or other neutral oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup grated zucchini, lightly squeezed to remove excess water
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 12 muffins
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180 calories
- Tools Needed: Muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk, grater.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. This ensures your Healthy Blueberry Muffin Recipes bake perfectly without sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the spelt flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon. Make sure everything is well combined. This step is crucial for even rising in your Zucchini Blueberry Spelt Muffins.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, milk, applesauce, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Ensure all the wet ingredients are thoroughly blended. This creates a uniform base for your Healthy Blueberry Muffin Recipes.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix. A few lumps are perfectly fine, as overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
5. Fold in Zucchini and Blueberries
Gently fold in the grated zucchini and blueberries. Be careful not to mash the blueberries, especially if using fresh ones. This makes sure your Healthy Blueberry Muffin Recipes have bursts of fruit and hidden veggies.
6. Fill Muffin Cups
Divide the batter evenly among the 12 prepared muffin cups. You can use an ice cream scoop for easy portioning. Fill each cup about two-thirds full.
7. Bake the Muffins
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The tops should be golden brown. Allow the Zucchini Blueberry Spelt Muffins to cool slightly before removing from the tin.
Variation Ideas:
- Citrus Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a brighter flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking.
- Spice It Up: Include a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a different warm spice profile.
- Glaze: Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze after cooling (powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice).
Storage Instructions:
Store your cooled Zucchini Blueberry Spelt Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use all-purpose flour instead of spelt flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but the texture and nutritional profile will be slightly different.
- Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, you don’t need to peel the zucchini. The skin softens during baking and is virtually unnoticeable.
- My muffins are dense, what went wrong?
Overmixing the batter is a common cause for dense muffins. Mix only until just combined.
- Can I make these vegan?
Yes, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and ensure your milk is plant-based.
- How do I prevent blueberries from sinking to the bottom?
Tossing blueberries in a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter can help prevent sinking.
- Are these good for meal prep?
Absolutely! These Healthy Blueberry Muffin Recipes are perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
