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| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins – 25 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
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| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 234 | 10g | 2g | 33g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 16g | 2g | 4g | 0.34g |
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There’s a certain charm to baking that transports me back to Sunday mornings in my grandmother’s kitchen. The aroma of freshly baked Apple Muffins conjures those precious moments with family, sipping on fresh guava juice and indulging in homemade treats. This recipe for Apple Muffins strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and spice, making it an ideal choice for breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack. The blend of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates an irresistible scent that fills the kitchen and beckons everyone to gather around.
A Dance of Flavors and Textures
What I truly love about these Apple Muffins is the comforting medley of flavors and textures. The tender, moist interior bursting with juicy apple chunks contrasts beautifully with the subtle crunch from optional walnuts or pecans. The spices—cinnamon and nutmeg—add a layer of warmth and depth, reminiscent of the flavors I grew up with in Miami, where the kitchens are always alive with bold and inviting aromas.
Why Apples Are a Star Ingredient
Apples aren’t just delicious; they bring several health benefits to the table. Rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants, apples can contribute to heart health and improved digestion. They also help in maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of diabetes. Incorporating apples into muffins allows for a moist texture without needing an excessive amount of oil or sugar, making these treats a healthier option compared to typical pastries. For another fruit-based delight, consider my Blueberry Muffins recipe, which shares a similar texture but offers a different fruity burst.
Pairs Perfectly With…
These Apple Muffins pair wonderfully with a cup of rich Cuban coffee or a spiced chai latte, enhancing the cozy vibes of fall mornings or relaxed gatherings. They’re also a fantastic addition to a brunch spread, complementing dishes like Spanish tortilla or avocado toast. The muffins’ light sweetness will offset the savory flavors, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Living in Miami, I’ve always had easy access to incredible produce, and apples are a year-round staple in my kitchen. Their versatility makes them perfect for both savory dishes and sweet treats. So, whether you’re enjoying these muffins fresh out of the oven or packing them for a quick breakfast on-the-go, they’ll surely bring a comforting, homey touch to your day.
Give this Apple Muffins recipe a try, and let the simple pleasure of homemade baking brighten up your routines. I promise, one bite and you’ll fall in love just like I did.
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What You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup peeled and diced apples
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
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Method
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Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with non-stick spray.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Stir well to distribute the dry ingredients evenly.
Step Three
In another bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Step Four
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to over-mix. The batter may be a little lumpy, and that’s okay.
Step Five
Gently fold in 1 cup of peeled and diced apples and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans (if using) into the batter. Make sure the apple pieces and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step Six
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
Step Seven
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Step Eight
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your homemade apple muffins warm or at room temperature!
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