Butternut Squash Breakfast Muffins

### Butternut Squash Breakfast Muffins

Start your day off right with a delicious twist on your morning routine—Butternut Squash Breakfast Muffins. These muffins are not only flavorful but packed with nutrients that will keep you energized throughout the day. Whether you’re rushing out the door or enjoying a leisurely morning, these muffins make for the perfect breakfast companion.

#### **Ingredients**

- 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup cooked and mashed butternut squash
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

#### **Cooking Method**

1. **Preheat** your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.

2. **In a medium bowl**, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

3. **In a large bowl**, mix the mashed butternut squash, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth and well combined.

4. **Add eggs** one at a time to the squash mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. **Gradually add** the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.

6. **Fold in** the nuts and raisins or cranberries, if using.

7. **Divide** the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups.

8. **Bake** for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

9. **Allow to cool** in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

#### Nutritional Value & Pairings

Butternut squash is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. Rich in vitamin A and vitamin C, these muffins also offer a healthy dose of dietary fiber. The use of whole ingredients like nuts and dried fruits adds healthy fats and additional nutrients, making these muffins a balanced breakfast choice.

Enjoy your Butternut Squash Breakfast Muffins with a side of Greek yogurt or a simple fruit salad for added freshness. Pair them with a cup of hot coffee or herbal tea to perfectly complement their warm flavors. Alternatively, a green smoothie can add an extra kick of energy to your morning routine.

These muffins not only make your mornings deliciously bright but also provide the wholesome nutrition you need to start your day off right.