Zucchini Muffins

Muffin batter created by combining all-purpose flour, unsweetened coconut, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda and salt with mixture of granulated sugar, canola oil, unsalted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Grated zucchini and carrots are gently folded in before batter is spooned into muffin cups. Batter topped with pecan pieces and baked in hot oven until firm to the touch.

Ingredients -

2-1/2 cups plus 3 tablespoons Flour
1 cup Unsweetened Coconut
2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
1 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
2 teaspoons Baking Powder
1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
1/4 teaspoon Kosher or Sea Salt
2 cups Sugar
1 cup Canola Oil
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, softened
4 large Eggs
1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
2-1/2 cups grated Zucchini, about 1 1/2 medium
1/2 cup grated Carrots, about 1 carrot
1/4 to 1/2 cup chopped Pecans

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

2. In a large bowl, gently combine flour, coconut, spices, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

3. In a separate bowl or standing mixer, cream together sugar, oil and butter until light and fluffy.

4. Add eggs and vanilla and beat until well combined.

5. Add flour mixture and stir just until combined, do not over mix.

6. Fold in zucchini and carrots. Fill two large, well greased muffin tins, or two loaf pans, three-quarters full and top with pecans.

7. Bake 25 minutes, 35 to 40 minutes for bread, and cool on wire racks.

Variations and Recipe Ideas:

Muffin Making Tips -

Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients

Mix dry ingredients together well in a deep mixing bowl. Separately combine and mix the wet ingredients very well together. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the wet ingredients in the center of the well. Use a spoon or rubber spatula to carefully combine the wet with the dry. Stop mixing when the dry ingredients are incorporated but the batter is still lumpy. The lumps will dissolve during baking.

Muffin Making Tips -

Cupcake Liners

Cupcake liners are great for keeping muffins from sticking to the pan during baking. Available in decorative designs, the liners also make packing muffins for a picnic or party much easier.