Apple and Oat Muffins
Apple and Oat Muffins are a wholesome, comforting treat perfect for breakfast, snack time, or a light dessert. Combining tender muffins with hearty oats and sweet, juicy apples, they deliver both flavor and fiber in every bite. A hint of cinnamon enhances the autumnal warmth, while the optional crumb topping adds a satisfying crunch. These muffins are quick to prepare and use simple pantry ingredients, making them a reliable go-to for busy mornings, brunches, or lunchboxes. They’re moist, naturally sweetened with apples and brown sugar, and versatile enough to customize with nuts, dried fruits, or spices to suit your taste.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 standard muffins
Ingredients
For the Muffins
All-purpose flour: 1 3/4 cups (220 g)
Quick rolled oats: 1 cup (90 g)
Packed brown sugar: 3/4 cup (150 g)
Baking powder: 1 tablespoon
Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Chopped apple: 1 cup (about 1 medium apple)
Milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
Egg: 1 large, lightly beaten
Melted butter: 4 tablespoons (60 g)
Optional Crumb Topping
All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup (30 g)
Quick rolled oats: 1/4 cup (22 g)
Packed brown sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g)
Melted butter: 3 tablespoons (45 g)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix milk, egg, and melted butter until combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
Fold in the chopped apple carefully, ensuring even distribution.
If using, prepare the crumb topping by mixing flour, oats, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.
Divide the muffin batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups.
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over each muffin if desired.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from oven, let muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips
Use firm, crisp apples for best texture; peel if desired.
Quick rolled oats help absorb moisture and give a soft, hearty texture.
Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense muffins.
Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
Ensure the melted butter is cooled slightly before adding to prevent cooking the egg.
Muffin liners make removal easy, but lightly greasing works too.
Check muffins at 20 minutes to prevent overbaking.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for additional warmth.
Cool muffins completely to prevent soggy bottoms.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Variations
Substitute half the apples with pears for a milder, sweet flavor.
Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Mix in 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries for natural sweetness.
Replace some brown sugar with coconut sugar for a caramel-like depth.
Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.
Add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
Mix in 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom or allspice for a spiced twist.
Top muffins with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup instead of crumb topping.
Stir in 1/4 cup shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
Make mini muffins for bite-sized snacks, adjusting bake time to 12–15 minutes.
Q&A
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, but soak them in milk for 5–10 minutes first.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
How do I keep the muffins moist?
Don’t overbake, and fold ingredients gently.
Can I use applesauce instead of chopped apples?
Yes, reduce milk slightly to maintain consistency.
Can these be frozen?
Yes, cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Are they suitable for kids?
Yes, naturally sweet and soft.
Can I reduce sugar?
Yes, but muffins may be less caramelized.
Do I need the crumb topping?
No, it’s optional for extra texture.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, fold in 1/4–1/2 cup for a sweeter version.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Not necessary; peel for smoother texture if desired.
Nutrition
(Approximate per muffin)
Calories: 180–200
Protein: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Sugar: 12 g
Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 3 g
Conclusion
Apple and Oat Muffins are a quick, wholesome, and flavorful option for breakfast, snacks, or a light dessert. Combining tender, sweet apples with hearty oats, a hint of cinnamon, and an optional crumb topping creates a comforting treat that’s easy to prepare and satisfying. Their versatility allows for endless variations, from nuts and dried fruits to spices or chocolate, catering to a variety of tastes and dietary needs. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and fast baking, these muffins are a practical and delicious choice for busy mornings, family breakfasts, or anytime you want a wholesome, lightly sweetened snack. Soft, aromatic, and naturally fruity, they showcase how easy it is to enjoy healthy homemade baked goods without sacrificing taste.