Apple Cinnamon Muffins
There is something undeniably cozy about walking into the kitchen and smelling warm muffins baking. These Apple Cinnamon Muffins are exactly that kind of comfort. Soft, fluffy, and bursting with sweet apple flavor and a hint of cinnamon spice, they are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a little afternoon pick-me-up. Every bite has just the right balance of tender crumb and sweet, fruity goodness, making them irresistible for kids and adults alike.
Servings 12 muffins
Calories 210kcal
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg optional
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 2 medium apples peeled, cored, and finely chopped (any sweet variety works well)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with nonstick spray. This step ensures your muffins release easily and maintain their shape.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing the dry ingredients first helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices, so every muffin has consistent flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and yogurt until smooth and creamy. Make sure your butter is not too hot or it can cook the eggs.
- Fold in the chopped apples to the wet mixture. The apples add moisture and natural sweetness, giving each muffin a tender and fruity bite. Make sure they are evenly distributed for consistent flavor.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a wooden spoon or spatula. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix or the muffins can turn out dense. It is okay if a few flour streaks remain.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Notes
Use Fresh Apples
Choose crisp, sweet apples for the best flavor and texture. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work beautifully. Avoid overly soft apples as they can make the muffins soggy. Do Not Overmix the Batter
Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins instead of light and fluffy ones. Room Temperature Ingredients
Bring eggs and yogurt to room temperature before mixing. This helps them combine better with the butter and sugar, resulting in a smoother batter. Check Muffins Early
Ovens can vary, so check your muffins a few minutes before the recommended bake time. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Choose crisp, sweet apples for the best flavor and texture. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work beautifully. Avoid overly soft apples as they can make the muffins soggy. Do Not Overmix the Batter
Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins instead of light and fluffy ones. Room Temperature Ingredients
Bring eggs and yogurt to room temperature before mixing. This helps them combine better with the butter and sugar, resulting in a smoother batter. Check Muffins Early
Ovens can vary, so check your muffins a few minutes before the recommended bake time. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.