Apple Cinnamon Muffins

There’s something truly special about mornings filled with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked Apple Cinnamon Muffins. I remember the first time I made them; the kitchen was filled with laughter and chatter as my family eagerly awaited their treat. With each muffin that came out of the oven, I could see the excitement reflected in their eyes. These muffins aren’t just a breakfast item—they’re a hug in a muffin form, perfect for crisp fall mornings or any day when you need a little cheer. They’re soft, flavorful, and packed with the goodness of apples, making them a delightful way to start the day.

Key Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Muffins

When it comes to baking, the quality and combination of ingredients are paramount. The star players in these Apple Cinnamon Muffins include fresh, grated apples, aromatic cinnamon, and wholesome flours. Together, they create a delightful balance of flavors and textures that make each muffin a treat to remember.

• Large Apple: One large apple, peeled and grated, adds natural sweetness and moisture, which is essential for a tender muffin.
• Cinnamon: This aromatic spice brings warmth and depth, making it a classic pairing with apples.
• Honey: A touch of honey enhances the sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
• Lemon Juice: A bit of lemon juice brightens the flavor and helps balance the sweetness of the muffins.
• White Whole Wheat Flour: This flour adds fiber and nutrients while maintaining a light texture, perfect for muffins.
• Wheat Bran Flour: Adds extra nutrition and a subtle nuttiness that complements the other ingredients.
• Almond Meal: This brings richness and moisture, adding a delightful texture.
• Baking Soda: A leavening agent that helps the muffins rise beautifully.
• Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds a warm and comforting flavor that pairs well with cinnamon.
• Salt: A small amount of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Flax Seeds: Ground flax seeds contribute to the moisture and offer a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids.
• Applesauce: This is a key ingredient for moisture and acts as a natural sweetener.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and caramel notes that complement the apples.
• Coconut Oil: Used for richness and moisture, it also has a lovely subtle flavor.
• Egg Whites: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
• Vanilla Extract: Imparts a lovely aroma and rounds out the flavors.
• Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add crunch and a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Granola: A sprinkle of granola on top adds texture and a delightful crunch.

Directions for Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Ready to dive into the delicious world of baking? These Apple Cinnamon Muffins are straightforward and fun to make. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of warm, flavorful muffins.

1. Start by combining the grated apple, 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, honey, and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a muffin tin with paper liners and give them a light spray of cooking spray to ensure easy removal.
3. In another medium bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, wheat bran flour, almond meal, flax seeds, baking soda, nutmeg, 3/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, and salt. This dry mixture will create a light and fluffy base for the muffins.
4. In a large bowl, mix the applesauce, coconut oil, egg whites, brown sugar, and vanilla extract together. Beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes thick and creamy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients.
5. Add the dry ingredients you prepared earlier to this mixture. Blend at low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins.
6. Gently fold in the grated apple mixture and the chopped walnuts. This step ensures the muffins are filled with delicious apple chunks and nutty goodness.
7. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tins, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Top each muffin with half a teaspoon of granola for an extra crunch.
8. Place the muffin tin in the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
9. Once baked, let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

Tips and Variations

These Apple Cinnamon Muffins can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. Here are some helpful tips and variations to consider:

• Storage: Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Freezing: These muffins freeze beautifully. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
• Pairing: Enjoy your muffins with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy snack.
• Flavors: Experiment with adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a different twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flours with a gluten-free blend to make these muffins gluten-free.
• Extra Spice: Feel free to add a little ginger or allspice for a more robust flavor.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Serving Apple Cinnamon Muffins is just as delightful as baking them. Here are some ideas to elevate your muffin experience:

• Breakfast Treat: Serve them warm with a dollop of butter or a spread of your favorite nut butter for a hearty breakfast.
• Brunch Delight: Perfect for brunch gatherings, pair them with fresh fruit and yogurt for a balanced meal.
• Snack Time: These muffins make for a great afternoon snack to curb your hunger.
• Coffee Companion: Enjoy them alongside your favorite coffee or tea, as the flavors complement each other perfectly.
• Holiday Gatherings: Serve them at events or family gatherings to impress your guests with their delightful aroma and flavor.
• Storage Tips: Keep cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them for future enjoyment.

FAQ

Conclusion

These Apple Cinnamon Muffins are a delightful way to bring warmth and happiness to your kitchen. With each moist and flavorful bite, you’ll find that they are not just a recipe, but a cherished memory in the making. I encourage you to try baking them yourself and share them with your loved ones—they are sure to become a family favorite!

Apple Cinnamon Muffins

The ultimate breakfast treat, Apple Cinnamon Muffins are warm, moist, and incredibly delicious. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these easy-to-make muffins are perfect for any occasion. Serve them warm for a cozy morning or a delightful snack. You won't be able to resist making them again!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Large Apple peeled, cored and grated
• 3/4 tsp Cinnamon
• 1 tbsp Honey
• 1/2 tsp Lemon Juice
• 3/4 cup White Whole Wheat Flour (King Arthur) or all purpose flour
• 3/4 cup Wheat Bran Flour (Bob's Redmill)
• 1/4 cup Almond Meal
• 1 tsp Baking Soda
• 1/8 tsp Ground Nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1 1/2 tbsp Ground Flax Seeds
• 1 1/2 cup Applesauce (homemade or store bought)
• 3/4 cup Brown Sugar (not packed)
• 1 tbsp Coconut Oil (or canola)
• 2 large Egg Whites
• 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1 oz Walnuts (chopped)
• 1 oz Granola (such as Purely Elizabeth)

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Blender
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Grater
• Peeler
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. In a medium bowl combine grated apple, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, honey, and lemon juice. Set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with liners and lightly spray them with cooking spray.
3. In a medium bowl, combine flour, bran, almond meal, flax, baking soda, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt with a wire whisk; set aside.
4. In a large bowl mix applesauce, coconut oil, egg whites, sugar, and vanilla; beat at medium speed until thick. Scrape down sides of the bowl.
5. Add the flour mixture, then blend at low speed until combined. Do not over mix. Fold in apples and walnuts.
6. Pour batter into muffin tins and top each muffin with 1/2 teaspoon of granola, then bake in the center rack about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let them cool and serve room temperature.

Notes

• Tip 1: Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Tip 2: These muffins freeze beautifully. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
• Tip 3: Enjoy your muffins with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy snack.
• Tip 4: Experiment with adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a different twist.
• Tip 5: Substitute the flours with a gluten-free blend to make these muffins gluten-free.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.