vegan apple cinnamon muffins for a cozy morning

Vegan Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe: A Cozy Morning Treat

Ingredients

For the Muffin Batter:

• 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• ½ cup maple syrup (or agave syrup)
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 medium-sized apple, peeled, cored, and chopped (preferably Granny Smith or Fuji)

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Muffin tin (12-cup)
• Mixing bowls
• Muffin liners (optional)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line the muffin tin with muffin liners or grease it lightly with vegetable oil for easy removal of the muffins.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk thoroughly to ensure all the dry ingredients are well combined and there are no lumps.

3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
   In another bowl, mix together the almond milk, maple syrup, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well incorporated.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense muffins.

5. Add Chopped Apples:
   Fold in the chopped apple pieces, distributing them evenly throughout the batter for a delicious burst of flavor in every bite.

6. Prepare the Topping:
   In a small bowl, mix together the chopped nuts, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. This will add a delightful crunch and additional flavor to your muffins.

7. Fill the Muffin Tin:
   Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with the batter. This allows room for the muffins to rise while baking.

8. Add Topping:
   Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the filled muffin cups.

9. Bake:
   Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

10. Cool:
    Once baked to perfection, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Serve:
    Enjoy your vegan apple cinnamon muffins warm, or store them in an airtight container for a cozy breakfast or snack throughout the week.

Nutritional Benefits

Vegan apple cinnamon muffins not only tantalize the taste buds but also provide a range of health benefits:

• Whole Grains: Using whole wheat flour and rolled oats increases fiber content, aiding digestion and promoting heart health.
• Natural Sweetener: The use of maple syrup instead of refined sugars ensures that the muffins are not overly sweet while providing vitamins and minerals.
• Apples: Fresh apples are a great source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, promoting healthy skin and a strong immune system.
• Healthy Fats: Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain health.

Tips for Customization

To personalize your vegan apple cinnamon muffins, consider these variations:

• Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a warmth that complements the cinnamon.
• Add-Ins: Dried cranberries or raisins can provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute whole wheat flour with gluten-free flour and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
• Sugar Alternatives: For a lower-calorie option, you can reduce the amount of maple syrup or replace it with mashed bananas or dates.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: For prolonged freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: These muffins can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Final Thoughts – Perfect for Any Morning

These vegan apple cinnamon muffins are not just a light breakfast; they’re a fantastic treat for any time of day. Their wholesome ingredients ensure that they fuel your morning without compromise. Whether paired with a cozy cup of coffee, tea, or enjoyed solo, they deliver warmth, comfort, and satisfaction. With easy preparation and delightful flavors, these muffins are bound to become a staple in your recipe collection, making your mornings a little cozier and more delicious.