Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe

Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
• Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the applesauce, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts, if using, until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Enjoy: Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Importance of Each Ingredient

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure and base of the muffins. It helps to create a light and fluffy texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the muffins and helps with moisture retention, contributing to a tender crumb.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents help the muffins rise, creating a light and airy texture.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the muffins and pairing beautifully with the apples.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, balancing sweetness and elevating the overall taste.
• Unsweetened Applesauce: Acts as a moistening agent and adds natural sweetness, reducing the need for additional oil or sugar.
• Vegetable Oil: Contributes to the moistness of the muffins, ensuring they remain tender.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure, while also adding moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the apple and cinnamon.
• Diced Apples: Provides freshness, moisture, and natural sweetness, making the muffins flavorful and delightful.
• Nuts (Optional): Add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste and nutrition.

Enjoy baking your delicious apple cinnamon muffins!