Name: Apple Cinnamon Muffins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 medium fresh apples, peeled, cored, and chopped

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love these muffins for their soft, moist texture and classic fall-inspired flavor. The burst of juicy apple bits combined with aromatic cinnamon creates a satisfying treat that’s easy to whip up and sure to please both family and guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
all-purpose flour
granulated sugar
baking powder
ground cinnamon
salt
eggs
milk
vegetable oil (or butter)
vanilla extract
fresh apples, peeled, cored, and chopped

Directions

Preheat your oven and prepare a muffin tin (line with paper liners or grease lightly).
In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: eggs, milk, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla.
Fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined do not overmix.
Gently fold in the chopped apples, distributing them evenly through the batter.
Scoop the batter into muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool slightly before enjoying.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 12 muffins.
Prep Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
Cook Time: Approximately 22 minutes.

Variations

Sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar mixture on top before baking for a touch of sweetness and crunch.
Add a streusel topping mix equal parts flour, sugar, and cold butter until crumbly for extra texture and flavor.
Use applesauce in place of some of the oil or sugar to reduce fat and increase moisture.
Mix in chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or dried fruit (such as raisins or cranberries) for added texture and taste.
Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier, heartier muffin.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to a month. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 160 °C (325 °F) for 5–8 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes. Tart varieties like Granny Smith hold their shape well, while sweeter types like Fuji or Honeycrisp add natural sweetness and soft texture.

2. Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the peel on adds nutrients and a slightly rustic texture just make sure the pieces are finely chopped.

3. Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely especially if your apples are very sweet. You can reduce the sugar by up to half without dramatically altering flavor.

4. How can I make these muffins healthier?

Use applesauce as a partial substitute for oil, reduce sugar, or swap in whole wheat flour for half the all-purpose flour.

5. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes. Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend, and confirm your baking powder is gluten-free.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, doubling works well. Just be sure to use additional muffin tins or bake in batches to maintain even baking.

7. How do I know when the muffins are done?

They’re done when the tops turn golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

8. Can I add spices other than cinnamon?

Absolutely. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or allspice for added warmth and complexity.

9. Can I make them vegan?

Yes. Replace eggs with flax or chia egg substitutes, use plant-based milk, and swap oil for melted coconut oil or vegan butter.

10. Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely! Fold in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit gently into the batter before scooping into muffin cups.

Conclusion

These Apple Cinnamon Muffins are a timeless treat that’s simple to make yet full of comforting flavor. With minimal prep and flexible variations, they’re ideal for busy mornings or a sweet snack anytime. Enjoy them warm, fresh from the oven or store and reheat for a quick, delicious bite later on.