Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins: A Warm & Cozy Treat

By Olivia

Quick Benefits

Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins are the perfect way to enjoy fresh apples in a warm, comforting treat. These muffins are simple to make, with a moist texture and a delicious cinnamon-sugar streusel topping. Whether served warm or cooled, they make for a fantastic fall-inspired breakfast or snack.

Essential Ingredients

Muffins:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup white sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
1 large egg
⅓ cup vegetable oil
⅓ cup milk
2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 apples)

Topping:

½ cup white sugar
½ cup all-purpose flour
⅓ cup butter, cubed
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

Preparation Steps

Preheat & Prepare: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line 6 large (3½-inch) muffin cups with paper liners.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Mix in egg, vegetable oil, and milk until well combined.
Fold in Apples: Gently stir in chopped apples until evenly distributed.
Portion the Batter: Spoon about ½ cup of batter into each muffin liner.
Prepare Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, mix sugar, flour, butter, and cinnamon with a fork until crumbly.
Sprinkle Topping: Evenly distribute the topping over the muffins.
Bake: Bake at 425°F for 5 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool & Enjoy: Let muffins cool briefly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

Health Benefits

Rich in Fiber: Apples provide natural fiber, promoting digestive health.
Lower in Artificial Ingredients: Made from scratch, these muffins contain no preservatives.
Warm Spices for Wellness: Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Balanced Energy Source: The combination of carbs, fats, and protein makes for a satisfying snack.

Serving Suggestions

With Coffee or Tea: A warm muffin pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or chai tea.
With Yogurt & Honey: Serve alongside Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a balanced breakfast.
Topped with Whipped Cream: A light dollop of whipped cream makes for a delightful dessert.
With a Side of Warm Applesauce: Enhance the apple flavor with a spoonful of homemade applesauce.

Creative Variations

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel over the muffins for an extra indulgent touch.
Whole Wheat Swap: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
Raisin or Cranberry Twist: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of extra sweetness.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Pro Tips

Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir just until combined to avoid dense muffins.
Use Fresh Apples: Crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji work best.
Double the Batch: Make extra and freeze for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, they’re ready!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes! Any firm apple like Gala, Granny Smith, or Honeycrisp works well.

Can I make these muffins smaller?

Absolutely! Use a regular muffin tin to make 12 smaller muffins instead of 6 large ones. Reduce the baking time to 18-22 minutes.

How do I keep the streusel from sinking into the batter?

Make sure the streusel is evenly sprinkled on top and gently press it in without mixing.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute almond or oat milk for regular milk, and use dairy-free butter.

What if I don’t have paper liners?

Grease the muffin tin well with butter or non-stick spray before adding the batter.

Enjoy these Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins as a cozy, homemade treat that’s perfect for any time of the year!