Cinnamon Apple Muffins

This cinnamon apple muffin recipe offers a comforting blend of warm spices and fresh fruit, making every bite moist and flavorful. The combination of Greek yogurt and applesauce ensures these muffins stay tender without relying on heavy fats, perfect for a wholesome breakfast or snack.

I first made these muffins on a crisp fall morning when the smell of cinnamon filled the kitchen. They quickly became a favorite for weekend breakfasts and afternoon treats alike.

Ingredients List

• Greek yogurt: provides moisture and a subtle tang for tender crumb pick plain 0 percent fat to avoid extra calories
• Unsweetened applesauce: adds natural sweetness and keeps muffins soft choose fresh applesauce for best flavor
• Eggs: bind all ingredients and add richness select large eggs for consistency
• Milk or buttermilk: enhances tenderness and helps activate baking soda opt for buttermilk for a slight tang
• Vanilla: enhances aroma and depth select pure vanilla extract for robust flavor
• Brown sugar: offers a rich sweetness and slight molasses note choose light or dark based on preference
• Baking powder and baking soda: combine for proper lift measure precisely for best rise
• Ground cinnamon: is key to warming up the flavor balance fresh cinnamon for vibrant taste
• Salt: balances sweetness and enhances other flavors use fine salt for even distribution
• Whole wheat flour: adds fiber and nutty flavor sift for best texture
• Granny Smith or baking apples: add tartness and moisture peel if preferred for softer texture
• Melted butter: enriches flavor and helps with moist crumb use unsalted butter to control salt
• Sugar and additional cinnamon for topping: create a sweet cinnamon crust use fine sugar for even coating

Cooking Steps

Prepare Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking throughout the muffins.

Mix Wet Ingredients:

In a large bowl whisk together Greek yogurt applesauce eggs milk vanilla and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and uniform.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

Add baking powder baking soda cinnamon and salt to the wet mixture whisk gently until fully combined without overmixing.

Fold In Flour and Apples:

Carefully fold whole wheat flour and chopped apples into the wet ingredients with a spatula just until all flour is moistened and apple pieces are evenly distributed.

Fill Muffin Cups:

Prepare a muffin pan by lightly greasing or lining with paper liners then fill each cup to the top with batter for perfectly shaped muffins.

Bake Muffins:

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.

Cool Before Serving:

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely so they set properly.

Greek yogurt is my favorite ingredient here because it keeps each muffin tender and adds protein which makes a big difference in keeping us full through busy mornings. I remember serving these at a family brunch where everyone asked for seconds and the recipe quickly became a staple.

Best Storage Practices

Store these muffins in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them longer wrap individually and freeze for up to one month. To reheat bring to room temperature or warm slightly in a microwave or oven for a freshly baked experience.

Ingredient Swaps

If you do not have Greek yogurt plain regular yogurt or sour cream can work but expect a slightly different texture and tang. For applesauce try using mashed banana or pumpkin puree to add moisture with a unique flavor. Swap whole wheat flour with half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a lighter crumb but keep the nutty taste.

Serving Pairings

These muffins pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea to enhance the cinnamon notes. Add a smear of butter or a dollop of cream cheese to bring out their richness. A simple fruit salad on the side or a glass of cold milk also complements their wholesome texture beautifully.

Adding a cinnamon and sugar topping before baking creates a delightful crust that contrasts nicely with the soft interior for an irresistible treat.

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ What type of apples work best for these muffins?

Firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith are ideal as they hold their shape and provide a nice balance to the sweetness.

→ Can I substitute the Greek yogurt with something else?

Sour cream or buttermilk can be used to maintain moisture and tenderness in the muffins.

→ How can I tell when the muffins are done baking?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with moist crumbs, indicating they are fully baked.

→ Is it necessary to use whole wheat flour?

Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and hearty texture, but all-purpose flour can be a milder alternative.

→ Can I add extra ingredients like nuts or raisins?

Yes, chopped nuts or raisins can be gently folded into the batter for added flavor and texture.