Name: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins Healthy & Easy to Make
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-481923H52M58S
Total time: 2 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup old-fashioned or quick oats; ¾ cup light brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; ½ cup milk or apple cider; ½ cup unsweetened applesauce; ¼ cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup finely chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch

Looking for a wholesome, delicious muffin that’s perfect for fall? Apple cinnamon oatmeal muffins might just be your new favorite recipe. These muffins combine the flavors of fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and hearty oats, creating a healthy snack or breakfast option that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any time of day.

**Why Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins are a Fall Favorite**

Fall is the ideal time to bake with apples, and these apple cinnamon oatmeal muffins make the most of the season’s best ingredients. They’re packed with the warm spice of cinnamon, balanced by the sweetness of apples, and given extra heartiness with oats. Not only are they delicious, but they are also incredibly nutritious, thanks to the inclusion of fiber-rich oats, which are known for their role in supporting digestion and overall health. Learn more about the health benefits of oats, which include helping to lower cholesterol and improve blood sugar control.

The choice of apples can also make a big difference in your muffins’ flavor. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady are excellent choices because of their firm texture and balanced sweetness. If you’re unsure which apples to choose, check out this guide on the best apples for baking, ensuring you get the best flavor in every bite.

Essential Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins

To make these muffins, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a flavorful, moist treat:

Apples: Fresh, finely chopped apples add natural sweetness and moisture.
Oats: Use old-fashioned or quick oats. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier texture, while quick oats yield softer muffins.
Cinnamon: This warm spice brings that classic fall flavor to your muffins.
Applesauce: A healthy swap for oil, applesauce helps keep the muffins moist and reduces the fat content. You can learn more about using applesauce as a healthy baking substitute in various recipes.
Milk or Apple Cider: Either adds moisture and richness. Apple cider boosts the apple flavor.

For a seasonal twist, you might enjoy the warm fall flavors found in this pumpkin banana loaf as well, another great option for cozy baking.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins

Follow these simple steps to create delicious muffins that will fill your kitchen with the cozy scents of apples and cinnamon:

Preheat the oven to 400°F and prepare a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or cooking spray.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Whisk wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk (or apple cider), applesauce, oil, and vanilla extract.
Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Fold in apples: Gently fold in the finely chopped apples.
Fill muffin tins: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling them almost to the top.
Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

If you’re a fan of baked goods, you might also want to try out these on-the-go pancake muffins, which are another convenient and delicious option for breakfast.

Why These Muffins Are Nutritious

These apple cinnamon oatmeal muffins aren’t just a treat for your taste buds; they’re packed with health benefits:

Oats: A great source of fiber, oats help with digestion and can improve heart health.
Apples: Full of vitamins and antioxidants, apples add natural sweetness and moisture without the need for extra sugar.
Cinnamon: This spice is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels.
Applesauce: A healthier alternative to oil, applesauce reduces the fat content of these muffins while maintaining moisture.

Customizing Your Muffins

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s easy to modify. Here are a few ways you can tweak the muffins to suit your taste or dietary preferences:

Add-ins: For extra flavor and texture, mix in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries.
Flavor Enhancers: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a more complex flavor profile.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk.

How to Store and Freeze Muffins

Once baked, these muffins store well, making them a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or snack:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for about 30 seconds.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Pears, blueberries, or cranberries make great alternatives to apples and bring their own unique flavors to the muffins.

What type of oats should I use?

Both old-fashioned oats and quick oats work well in this recipe. If you prefer a chewier muffin, go for old-fashioned oats. For a softer texture, use quick oats.

How do I make these muffins vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk like almond or soy.

Conclusion

These apple cinnamon oatmeal muffins are the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition. With wholesome ingredients like oats, apples, and cinnamon, they offer a tasty and healthy option for breakfast or a snack. Whether you’re making a batch for meal prep or just to enjoy with your morning coffee, these muffins are sure to satisfy. Plus, with easy variations, you can tweak them to suit any dietary needs or preferences. Try them out, and enjoy the delicious taste of fall in every bite!