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Apple Cinnamon Muffins

These moist and tender muffins combine tart apple slices with warm cinnamon, creating a cozy treat that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas. Baked to a golden brown, they feature a slightly cracked top and juicy apple bits, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and spice in every bite. Ideal for a comforting breakfast or snack, they evoke a nostalgic, homey feel.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled slightly
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 medium tart apples (like Granny Smith) peeled, cored, and grated or finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment

  • Muffin tin
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Grater or knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined. This creates a fluffy, aerated base for the batter.
  3. In a separate bowl, crack in the eggs and whisk until smooth. Pour in the melted butter, sour cream, and vanilla extract, then stir until well combined. The mixture should be slightly creamy and smooth.
  4. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, folding gently with a spatula or spoon just until the batter is combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if it’s a bit lumpy.
  5. Peel, core, and grate the apples directly into the batter, or finely chop them. Add the grated apples to the mixture along with the ground cinnamon, then gently fold to distribute evenly.
  6. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tins, filling each about three-quarters full. If desired, sprinkle the tops with cinnamon sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the muffins turn a golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will fill with the warm scent of cinnamon and baked apples.
  8. Remove the muffins from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack. Let them rest for about 5 minutes to firm up slightly before serving. The tops should be crackled and fragrant, with juicy apple bits peeking through.
  9. Serve the muffins warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter. Enjoy the cozy aroma and moist, tender crumb with every delicious bite.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking. These muffins are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.