Mona’s Carrot Spice Muffins

Mona's Carrot Spice Muffins are more than just a treat—they're a nourishing way to bring warmth and grounding to your day. Crafted with ingredients that support your digestive fire and balance your energy, these muffins are perfect for those cozy winter mornings when you want something comforting yet wholesome. Each bite is spiced with the flavors of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and more, adding a touch of sweetness and a whole lot of love. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or save them for a mid-day pick-me-up, these muffins are a delicious reminder that taking care of yourself can taste amazing.

These muffins are all about comfort—spiced, warm, and just a touch sweet (Sort of like Mona!). They’re perfect for a cozy breakfast or an afternoon snack, and they’re full of ingredients that are easy on your digestive fire.

Why These Muffins are good for us:

1. Carrots

Carrots are grounding and nourishing, making them perfect for balancing Vata dosha, especially during the colder months. Their natural sweetness supports the body’s digestive fire (Agni) while offering a soothing quality that helps stabilize the nervous system. In Ayurveda, the orange color of carrots is linked to rejuvenation and vitality, and their gentle heating energy aids in maintaining balanced digestion without aggravating Pitta.

2. Ghee

Ghee is one of Ayurveda's most revered ingredients. It’s considered an ultimate "Ojas builder," which means it helps to increase vitality, immunity, and overall well-being. Ghee is fantastic for nourishing all tissues, supporting digestion, and lubricating the joints. It also helps pacify both Vata and Pitta doshas while enhancing the flavor of your food. In these muffins, ghee adds a rich, wholesome quality that leaves you feeling satisfied without feeling heavy.

3. Sweet Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Cardamom, Clove, Nutmeg)

The sweet spice mix is not just about flavor—it’s about deep support for your digestive health. Cinnamon and ginger help stimulate Agni, making these muffins easier to digest and less likely to cause stagnation. Cardamom and clove add warmth and help reduce bloating or gas, which makes this spice blend great for Vata balance. Nutmeg, on the other hand, has calming properties that support restful sleep and ease anxiety, making this spice mix an all-around winner for promoting both digestion and mental tranquility.

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs

• 1/4 cup oil (ghee, sesame, or coconut)

• 1/4 cup maple syrup (just enough sweetness)

• 1 ripe banana (the mushier, the better)

• 1/4-1/3 cup applesauce (or grate a fresh apple if you’re feeling fancy)

• 1/2 cup milk of choice

• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp sea salt

• 1 tsp sweet spice mix (cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, clove, nutmeg—all the warming goodness, pumpkin spice can also work well here)

Directions:

1. Blend It Up: Combine eggs, oil, maple syrup, banana, applesauce, milk, baking soda, salt, and spices in a mixing bowl. Blend until smooth, I use a hand blender.

2. Add the Dry Ingredients:

   • 1 cup almond meal/flour

   • 1 + 1/3 cups oats (GF if needed) Mix gently until just combined.

3. Fold in the Star Ingredient:

   • 1 cup grated carrot (bringing sweetness and grounding energy)

Customize It: Add nuts (pecans, walnuts), dried fruit (raisins, cranberries), or chocolate chips if you like. My favorite combo? Pecans and raisins—delicious.

To Bake: Line a muffin tin with parchment paper cups, spoon in the batter, and bake at 375°F for 32-40 minutes (until the tops spring back when gently pressed). Let them cool for 5 minutes in the tin, then tilt them sideways to cool a bit more. Finally, transfer to a rack to cool completely—if you can wait that long!