Print

Apple Cinnamon Muffins

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Tender, fluffy muffins packed with chunks of fresh apple and warm cinnamon spice, topped with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. These muffins make the perfect breakfast treat or afternoon snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Tender, fluffy muffins packed with chunks of fresh apple and warm cinnamon spice, topped with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. These muffins make the perfect breakfast treat or afternoon snack.

Ingredients

For the Muffins:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:

 

  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well with cooking spray.
  2. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small 1/4 to 1/2-inch pieces. If preparing ahead, toss with a teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent browning.
  3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
  4. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until well combined and slightly lightened in color, about 1 minute. Add the oil (or melted butter), milk, yogurt, and vanilla extract, whisking until well combined.
  5. Create the Batter: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until combined – a few lumps are okay. Gently fold in the diced apples, being careful not to overmix.
  6. Fill the Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
  7. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Brush the tops of the muffins with melted butter, then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  8. Bake the Muffins: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions:

 

Serve these muffins warm with a pat of butter for a cozy breakfast. They’re also delicious alongside a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For extra indulgence, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and a drop of vanilla extract.

Notes

Pro Tips:

  • Use a mix of apple varieties for the best flavor and texture – try combining tart Granny Smith with sweeter Honeycrisp or Gala apples.
  • Don’t overmix the batter – stir just until the ingredients are combined to ensure tender muffins.
  • For added texture, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
  • For a healthier version, substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
  • If you prefer a more pronounced apple flavor, increase the amount of diced apples to 2 1/2 cups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Overmixing the batter, which can result in tough, dense muffins.
  • Using cold ingredients – room temperature eggs, milk, and yogurt incorporate better.
  • Underbaking – muffins should be golden brown and spring back when touched.
  • Cutting the apples too large, which can make them sink to the bottom of the muffins.

Storage Instructions:

Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual muffins tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

 

Enjoy your Apple Cinnamon Muffins!