Apple Cinnamon Muffins are a delightful treat that combines tender, moist muffins with sweet chunks of apple and a warm sprinkle of cinnamon. These muffins have a soft crumb and just the right balance of fruity and spicy flavors that make them perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack.
I love making these muffins on chilly mornings because the aroma of cinnamon and fresh apples baking fills the whole kitchen in the best way. A little tip I’ve found helpful is to toss the apple pieces in a bit of cinnamon before mixing them into the batter — it really enhances that cozy flavor we all crave.
These muffins are great to pack for lunchboxes or enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. I often like to split one in half, slather it with a bit of butter, and savor it while it’s still slightly warm. It’s a simple pleasure that always brightens my day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Fresh, peeled, and chopped apples add moisture and natural sweetness. I like using Fuji or Honeycrisp for their crisp texture, but Granny Smith works well if you prefer a tart flavor.
Cinnamon: This spice is what brings warmth and depth. Ground cinnamon is best, but you can use pumpkin pie spice for a bit of extra flavor.
Yogurt or Sour Cream: These keep the muffins moist and tender. Greek yogurt is a good substitute if you want a thicker texture, or use a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
Butter: Melted butter gives richness. You can swap it for vegetable oil or coconut oil to keep the muffins moist but lighter.
Brown Sugar Topping: This creates a lovely crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust. If you want a lighter topping, reduce the amount or skip it entirely.
How Can I Avoid Overmixing the Muffin Batter?
Overmixing muffin batter can make them tough and dense. Here’s how to mix just right:
- Combine wet and dry ingredients gently using a spatula.
- Fold ingredients together until you no longer see dry flour. A few lumps are okay!
- Avoid vigorous stirring or beating, which activates gluten and toughens muffins.
- Fold in the apples carefully at the end to keep the batter airy.
Using this gentle technique helps you get light and fluffy muffins every time with a soft crumb inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 12-cup muffin tin – I recommend it because it helps muffins turn out evenly golden and shapes them nicely.
- Paper muffin liners or non-stick spray – makes removing the muffins easy and keeps cleanup simple.
- Mixing bowls – use one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet; glass or stainless steel works well.
- Whisk or spatula – great for gently combining ingredients without overmixing to keep muffins tender.
- Measuring cups and spoons – essential for accurate ingredients, especially for delicate baked goods.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and nutty flavor. They pair beautifully with apples and cinnamon.
- Replace apples with pears or berries for a different fruity twist that adds moisture and color.
- Mix in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.
- Swirl in a spoonful of caramel sauce on top before baking for a rich, indulgent touch.
Apple Cinnamon Muffins
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups peeled, cored, and finely chopped apples (about 1 large apple)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 10 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to bake. Add a few extra minutes for cooling before you enjoy these warm, delicious muffins — perfect for a morning boost or an afternoon treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
First, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your muffin tin with paper liners or give it a good greasing to keep muffins from sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the melted butter, yogurt (or sour cream), eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
4. Bring It Together:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix. Gently fold everything together — it’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy, but try not to overmix so your muffins stay light and fluffy.
5. Add Apples:
Carefully fold in the chopped apples, distributing them evenly through the batter.
6. Fill Muffin Cups and Add Topping:
Divide the batter into your prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar topping generously over each muffin.
7. Bake:
Pop the muffins into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. They’re ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Enjoy:
Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the cozy apple cinnamon goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Apples Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the batter. This helps prevent soggy muffins.
How Should I Store Leftover Muffins?
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just thaw at room temperature or warm them gently before serving.
Can I Substitute the Yogurt or Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt works well, or you can use buttermilk or even a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan variation. Just make sure the substitute is similar in consistency to keep the muffins moist.
Is There a Way to Make These Muffins Healthier?
You can reduce the sugar slightly or replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. Adding chopped nuts or seeds can also boost the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
