Apple Cinnamon Veggie Muffins

If you've been following the toddler recipes, you know that muffins are a must in this house. I find I can pack a lot of whole food variety to create a full meal that's:

              1. Easy and mess free for "on the go"

              2. Convenient for making large batches and freezing for quick use

              3. Nutrient dense (great for children that don't want to eat a lot or are picky!)

I had been wanting to create an apple muffin/loaf that had some hidden veggies and could easily be grain and gluten free (for those that need it). I am happy to report this recipe does just that! It's simple, made from real food (nothing processed) and the best part? My husband and daughter both loved them!

So let's get to it!

What you need:

1 apple (I used granny smith for more of a tart flavor, but any will work)

1 cup dates 

2 large zucchini

1/4 cup water

1 tsp pure vanilla

*1.5 cups millet blended to flour

1 Tbsp ground flax (ok to omit but provides good source of Omega-3 fatty acids and fiber)

1 tsp baking powder

2 tsp cinnamon

pinch of sea salt

1/2 apple chopped into fine chunks

* Can sub 1.5 cups flour of choice - may need to add a little water if batter seems too dry

For additional nutrients and healthy fats (especially important for growing and active toddlers): Puree 1/2 cup of walnuts or pecans with the wet ingredients. Increase water to 3/4 cup.

What you do:

1. In a high speed blender, combine dates, 1 apple, zucchini, water, and vanilla and blend until smooth (I left the skin on the apple and zucchini for added nutrients).

2. Combine dry ingredients.

3. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir to incorporate. 

4. Fold in apple chunks.

5. Scoop into silicon muffin pan or bread loaf and bake at 350 for 12 - 14 minutes (muffins) or 18 - 22 minutes (bread loaf). Makes 48 mini muffins.

Enjoy!

Nutrition Info per muffin:

Calories: 50

Fat: 0.3 g

Saturated Fat: 0.1 g

Cholesterol: 0 mg

Sodium: 11 mg

Carbohydrates: 22 g

Fiber: 11.7 g

Sugars: 6 g

Protein: 1 g

Looking for other hassle meals for your baby or tot?

Try these power packed "all in one" meals that were, and are, a hit in our home!

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Chewy Baked Oatmeal Cranberry Squares

Chocolate Breakfast Bars
Fluffy Power Waffles

Lara Balls

Loving Green Pancakes

Mini Carrot Muffins

Power Packed Bagel
Pumpkin Walnut Muffins

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