Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Muffins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Muffins are the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The apple adds natural sweetness and moisture, while the oats provide a hearty and filling base. With a hint of cinnamon, these muffins bring warmth and spice, making them a delightful treat for any time of year. They’re also easy to make and can be enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later. Whether you’re starting your day or craving a mid-afternoon snack, these muffins will hit the spot.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 cup milk (or plant-based milk)

• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces (about 1 medium apple)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

3. Prepare the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.

4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy.

5. Add the apples: Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter.

6. Fill the muffin tin: Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.

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

8. Cool and serve: Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 muffins

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Add-ins: Try adding walnuts, raisins, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.

• Spiced Muffins: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a more complex spice profile.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the whole wheat or all-purpose flour to make these muffins gluten-free.

• Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk and oil for a vegan-friendly muffin.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to 1 week.

• Freezing: These muffins freeze well! Let them cool completely, then wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats are best for this recipe, as they provide more texture and help keep the muffins moist. Quick oats can be used, but they might affect the texture slightly, making the muffins a bit softer.

2. Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use any apple variety you like. Granny Smith apples will give a tart contrast, while Fuji or Honeycrisp apples will add more sweetness. Just make sure the apples are firm to avoid mushy muffins.

3. Can I make these muffins without sugar?

You can reduce the sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that reducing the sugar may change the texture and sweetness of the muffins.

4. How can I make these muffins fluffier?

For fluffier muffins, make sure not to overmix the batter, and be careful not to add too much liquid. If you want extra fluffiness, consider adding a teaspoon of baking powder along with the baking soda.

5. Can I add nuts or seeds to these muffins?

Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds would be great additions. Just fold them in with the apples for added crunch and flavor.

6. How can I make these muffins lower in fat?

You can reduce the oil to 2 tablespoons and increase the applesauce to 1/2 cup for a healthier, lower-fat version. You could also substitute the oil with mashed banana or Greek yogurt.

7. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour in equal amounts. Whole wheat flour adds extra fiber, but all-purpose flour will still result in a delicious muffin.

8. Can I make these muffins sugar-free?

You can use a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener to make the muffins sugar-free. Just be sure to follow the substitute’s packaging for equivalent measurements.

9. How do I know when the muffins are done?

To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the muffins are done. If it comes out wet with batter, they need a little more time.

10. Can I make these muffins without applesauce?

You can replace the applesauce with mashed banana, yogurt, or even extra milk. The applesauce helps keep the muffins moist, so you’ll want to use a substitute with a similar consistency.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Muffins are a delicious, wholesome treat that’s perfect for any time of day. The combination of oats, cinnamon, and apples creates a moist and flavorful muffin that’s both comforting and nourishing. Easy to make and full of heartwarming flavors, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy them fresh from the oven, or store them for a quick breakfast or snack throughout the week!