These Apple Cinnamon Oat Muffins are a tasty treat, filled with fluffy oats and sweet apples. The warm cinnamon scent makes your kitchen smell amazing!
They’re perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. I love to enjoy them warm with a little butter on top—yum! 😋 These muffins also freeze well, so you can save some for later!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These provide the base for the muffins and add a chewy texture. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can work, but avoid instant oats as they can change the texture.
Whole Wheat Flour: This adds fiber and a nutty flavor. If you prefer, all-purpose flour is a fine substitute, but you might lose some of the health benefits.
Brown Sugar: For sweetness, brown sugar also adds moisture. If you want to cut sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup but adjust other liquids in the recipe slightly.
Applesauce: This helps keep muffins moist and adds apple flavor. You can substitute with mashed bananas for a different fruity flavor or use yogurt for extra creaminess.
Dairy Milk: Any milk works here! Almond, soy, or oat milk are excellent dairy-free options. Feel free to use what you already have on hand.
How Do I Ensure My Muffins Are Moist and Fluffy?
To make sure your muffins turn out moist and fluffy, pay attention to how you mix the ingredients. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Combine dry ingredients separately from wet, and mix them gently to just combine. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
- Use room temperature ingredients—they blend together better and help create a fluffier texture.
- Avoid opening the oven door too often while baking, as this can cause the muffins to sink. Use a timer and check for doneness towards the end of baking time.
These tips will help you achieve perfect Apple Cinnamon Oat Muffins every time! Enjoy your baking!
Apple Cinnamon Oat Muffins
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Muffins:
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 3/4 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce or finely chopped apples
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 medium apple, peeled and finely diced
- Additional rolled oats, for topping
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or raisins
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and 18-22 minutes for baking. For a total of around 40-45 minutes, you’ll have warm, delicious muffins to enjoy! Perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or give it a light grease to prevent sticking later on.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine all the dry ingredients evenly.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the applesauce (or finely chopped apples), milk, vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil), eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is blended smoothly.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins tough.
5. Add the Apples and Optional Ingredients:
Gently fold in the diced apple, and if you want, add any nuts or raisins to the batter for some extra texture and flavor!
6. Fill Muffin Tins:
Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin tin cups, filling each one about 3/4 full. This helps the muffins rise without overflowing.
7. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle a few rolled oats on top of each muffin for a delightful, crunchy topping that looks great!
8. Bake the Muffins:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 18-22 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
9. Cool the Muffins:
Once done, take the muffins out of the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your muffins warm, or at room temperature! They’re delicious on their own or with a touch of butter or a drizzle of honey.
These muffins are hearty, moist, and overflowing with the delicious flavors of apple and cinnamon—perfectly cozy for any time of the day!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes! Quick oats can be used, but they may change the texture slightly, making the muffins a bit softer. Avoid using instant oats, as they won’t provide the same chewiness.
How Can I Store Leftover Muffins?
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries, cranberries, or even pears. Just make sure to keep the total fruit volume similar to maintain the balance of wet and dry ingredients.
What’s the Best Way to Add Sweetness Without Sugar?
If you’re looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute brown sugar with mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the liquid amounts slightly to keep your muffins moist.