These Apple Cinnamon Oat Muffins are a yummy treat! With juicy apples and warm cinnamon, each bite feels like a cozy hug. They’re perfect for breakfast or a snack!
I love how easy they are to make—just mix, pour, and bake! Plus, the smell of cinnamon in the kitchen is enough to make anyone smile. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the star of the muffins, providing texture and fiber. For a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats. Instant oats can work too, but the texture may be softer.
Brown Sugar: This adds a lovely depth of sweetness. If you’re short on brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of sugar) as a substitute.
Apples: Fresh apples bring moisture and flavor! I like to use Granny Smith for a tart kick, but sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work great too. If apples are out of season, try using unsweetened applesauce instead.
Milk: You can use any type of milk, dairy or plant-based. Almond or oat milk adds a nice subtle flavor. If you’re aiming for a richer muffin, whole milk or buttermilk is a fantastic option.
How Do I Ensure My Muffins Are Perfectly Baked?
Getting the bake time right is key! Start checking your muffins around 18 minutes. To do this, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. If there’s wet batter, pop them back in for another minute or two.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated; otherwise, muffins can bake unevenly.
- If the tops are browning too quickly, you can loosely cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Let them cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This keeps the bottoms from becoming soggy.
Apple Cinnamon Oat Muffins
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Muffins:
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped apple (about 1 medium apple)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Optional Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk or apple cider
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and another 18-22 minutes for baking. After baking, let the muffins cool for a few minutes before enjoying them. Overall, you can have these delicious muffins ready in under 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This step ensures easy removal of the muffins later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together until well mixed. This helps the baking powder and baking soda distribute evenly.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the chopped apple, milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is combined nicely. The egg will help the muffins rise and keep them fluffy!
4. Combine Both Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t worry if there are a few lumps, but avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender.
5. Fill the Muffin Cups:
Carefully divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. This gives them room to rise without overflowing.
6. Bake:
Pop the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. They are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
7. Cool and Prepare the Glaze:
When the muffins are done, let them cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you want to add the optional glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk (or apple cider) in a small bowl until smooth.
8. Drizzle the Glaze:
Once the muffins are completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. This adds a sweet finishing touch that pairs perfectly with the apple and cinnamon flavors!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
These muffins are delightful served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy snack or breakfast treat!
Enjoy the hearty oat texture, warm apple flavor, and cinnamon spice in these delightful muffins!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture of the muffins will be slightly different, as quick oats absorb moisture more quickly. If you prefer a chewier texture, stick with rolled oats.
Can I Substitute Another Sweetener for Brown Sugar?
Absolutely! You can use white sugar, coconut sugar, or even maple syrup. If using maple syrup, reduce the milk by a couple of tablespoons since it’s a liquid sweetener.
How Should I Store Leftover Muffins?
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn!
What Types of Apples Work Best?
Firmer apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are great choices as they hold their shape and offer a nice contrast to the sweetness. Feel free to mix different types for a unique flavor!
