Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Muffins

Name: Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup grated apple (about 2 medium apples); 1/2 cup milk

Highlighted under: Sweet Kitchen Classics

I can never resist the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Muffins wafting through my kitchen. The combination of sweet apples and spicy cinnamon not only fills the air with delightful scents but also creates a comforting moment that brightens up my mornings. I love how simple ingredients can come together to produce such a flavorful and satisfying treat. These muffins are perfect not just for breakfast but any time you crave something sweet and wholesome.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:37:36.811Z

When I first tried making these Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Muffins, I was surprised at how effortlessly they came together. Using fresh, grated apples not only makes the muffins moist, but it also adds a natural sweetness that's hard to resist. I found that combining the flour and baking powder with the spices before adding them to the wet ingredients really helps create an even distribution of flavor throughout the muffins.

After a few trials, I discovered that letting the batter sit for just a few minutes enhances the texture, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. These muffins make for an incredible start to the day or even an afternoon snack, perfect for sharing with friends or savouring during a cozy moment at home.

Why You'll Love These Muffins
A delightful balance of sweet apples and warm cinnamon.
Moist and fluffy texture that keeps you coming back for more.
Perfect for breakfast or a wholesome snack any time of day.

The Importance of Grating Apples

Grating apples for these muffins not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to their moistness. The grated apple pieces blend seamlessly into the batter and cook down slightly during baking, resulting in small bursts of apple flavor in every bite. Using a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Fuji, can elevate the taste profile, providing a nice contrast between sweetness and tanginess that pairs well with the cinnamon.

If you don't have fresh apples on hand, unsweetened applesauce can be a convenient alternative. Use 1 cup of applesauce to replace the grated apples in your muffin batter. Keep in mind that if you use applesauce, you may want to reduce the sugar slightly, since it already adds sweetness to the muffins.

Achieving the Perfect Muffin Texture

To ensure your muffins come out light and fluffy, it's crucial to avoid over-mixing the batter. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you no longer see dry flour. Small lumps are fine; this gentle approach prevents the muffins from becoming dense and chewy. The incorporation of air into the batter is what gives these muffins their delightful rise and tender crumb.

Another tip for achieving great texture is to use room temperature ingredients. Allowing your eggs and milk to sit out for 30 minutes before baking helps them mix more evenly, contributing to the overall consistency of the batter. This step may seem minor, but it can significantly impact the final product.

Storing and Enjoying Your Muffins

Once baked, allow the muffins to cool completely on a wire rack. This step helps prevent moisture from building up under the muffins, which can make them soggy. If you plan to enjoy them later, store the cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the muffins. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen muffins, simply thaw them at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a quick breakfast treat. I like to pop them in the toaster oven for a few minutes, as it restores their lovely freshly baked texture, especially when you’re in the mood for a warm snack with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious muffins.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Apple Muffins

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup grated apple (about 2 medium apples)
1/2 cup milk

Make sure to mix well and enjoy your baking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your muffin magic happen.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin pan with paper liners or grease it lightly.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the grated apple.

Fill Muffin Cups

Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin pan, filling each cup about two-thirds full.

Bake

Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delightful muffins warm with a cup of coffee or tea.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or raisins into the batter before baking.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your muffins are coming out too dry, it might be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on them while they’re in the oven, and do the toothpick test around 18 minutes. Remember, they’ll continue to cook slightly as they cool, so pulling them out when the toothpick is just clean ensures they stay moist.

Another common issue is muffins that dome too much on top. This can sometimes be a sign of too much baking powder. Make sure to measure accurately, leveling off the measuring spoon to avoid excess. If you find your muffins are still rising too much, try reducing the baking powder slightly to achieve a more even rise.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding mix-ins to customize your muffins. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and enhance the flavor. Dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries also works beautifully with the apple and cinnamon combination. Add about 1/2 cup of your choice, and fold them into the batter just before scooping it into the muffin pan.

For those who enjoy a little sweetness on top, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking can add a pleasant crunch to the muffin tops. Simply mix equal parts sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle lightly over the uncooked batter for a delicious finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

These Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Muffins are versatile and can be served alongside a variety of accompaniments. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a comforting morning ritual. They’re lovely on their own, but adding a dollop of yogurt or a smear of cream cheese can elevate the experience, making for both a satisfying and hearty snack.

For a special brunch occasion, arrange your muffins on a platter with sliced fresh fruit and a bowl of honey or maple syrup for drizzling. This not only adds aesthetic appeal but also gives your guests a chance to customize their muffins to their liking, introducing a fun interactive element to your breakfast spread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

→ How should I store the muffins?

Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these muffins?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container. They will last for about 3 months.

→ What can I use as a substitute for eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce as a substitute for eggs.