Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your muffins bake evenly and rise perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin. Grease your muffin tin or line it with parchment liners to prevent the muffins from sticking.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat pastry flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices.
Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients. In another bowl, combine the papaya puree, beaten egg, melted butter or margarine, and vanilla extract. Mix well until you have a smooth mixture.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 6: Add Coconut. Fold in the coconut flakes until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Fill the Muffin Tin. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
Step 8: Bake. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy. Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
