Print

Cinnamon Apple Muffins Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 2 reviews

These Cinnamon Apple Muffins are a wholesome, flavorful treat perfect for breakfast or a snack. Made with whole wheat flour, fresh apples, Greek yogurt, and warm cinnamon spices, they offer a moist texture and naturally sweet flavor without excessive sugar. The optional cinnamon sugar topping adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup 0% plain Greek yogurt (250g)
  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (115g)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup milk or buttermilk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown sugar, lightly packed (210g)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2½ cups whole wheat flour, fluffed (325g)

Fruit

  • 2 Granny Smith or baking apples, peeled and finely chopped (3 cups or 315g)

Cinnamon Sugar Topping (Optional)

  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the muffins.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, unsweetened applesauce, eggs, milk (or buttermilk), vanilla extract, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture, whisking until combined evenly.
  4. Fold in Flour and Apples: Using a spatula, gently fold in the whole wheat flour and chopped apples just until there is no dry flour left and the batter is moistened without overmixing.
  5. Prepare Muffin Pan: Lightly grease a non-stick muffin pan or line it with paper muffin liners. Fill each muffin cup to the top with the batter. For smaller muffins, adjust baking time accordingly.
  6. Bake Muffins: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Allow muffins to cool for 5-10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. Make Cinnamon Sugar Topping (Optional): Mix together the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
  8. Apply Butter: Brush the tops of the slightly cooled muffins with melted butter to help the cinnamon sugar stick.
  9. Sprinkle Topping: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the muffin tops before serving for added sweetness and texture.
  10. Storage: Store muffins uncovered at room temperature on the day they are made. For longer storage, place muffins in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

  • Use 0% Greek yogurt for a lower fat option; can substitute with full fat if preferred.
  • Applesauce can be homemade or store-bought but must be unsweetened to control sugar content.
  • Make sure to peel and finely chop apples for even distribution and texture in the muffins.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins tender and light.
  • The cinnamon sugar topping is optional but adds a nice crunch and extra flavor.
  • For smaller muffins, reduce the baking time to avoid overbaking.
  • Whole wheat flour gives a hearty texture and increases fiber content.