Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins

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There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through your kitchen. These Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins are a cozy classic that comes together in no time and fills your home with the warm scent of fall, no matter the season. They’re soft, moist, and spiced just right—perfect for breakfast on the go or a lazy weekend treat.

Made with fresh apples and a cinnamon-sugar topping that creates a delightful crunch, these muffins are the kind of recipe you make once and then crave forever. No complicated steps, no fancy equipment—just simple ingredients and big flavor.

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What Kind of Apples Work Best for Muffins?

For the best texture and flavor, use firm apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji. These varieties hold their shape well when baked and offer a sweet-tart contrast that pairs beautifully with warm cinnamon. You can peel them or leave the skin on for a rustic feel.

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Ingredients for the Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/4 cups diced apples (peeled or unpeeled)

Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

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How To Make the Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Step 1: Prep Your Tools and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it. In a small bowl, mix the topping ingredients and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, both sugars, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, oil, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Fold in the diced apples. Don’t overmix; the batter should be slightly lumpy.

Step 5: Fill and Top

Spoon the batter evenly into your muffin cups, filling them about 3/4 full. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping over each muffin generously.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

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How to Serve and Store Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Serve these muffins warm with a slather of butter or a drizzle of honey. They also taste amazing at room temperature and are perfect for packing into lunchboxes or enjoying with an afternoon coffee.

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; thaw at room temp or warm them up in the oven.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use applesauce instead of chopped apples?

You can swap up to half of the apples for applesauce, but keep some chunks for texture.

Can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Absolutely. Just use your favorite plant-based milk.

How do I keep muffins from getting soggy?

Make sure they’re completely cooled before storing and avoid sealing them while still warm.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a wonderful crunch. Stir in about 1/2 cup with the apples.

What’s the best way to dice apples for muffins?

Cut them into small, bite-sized cubes so they distribute evenly throughout the batter.

Do these muffins freeze well?

They sure do. Just wrap them tightly and freeze for later enjoyment.

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Want More Muffin and Fall Baking Ideas?

If these Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins made your day, you’ll love diving into more warm and cozy recipes:

• Nutella French Toast Casserole for a decadent weekend brunch.
• Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe with that sugary crunch you love.
• Pumpkin Muffins that pair perfectly with your morning coffee.
• Flaky Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Puffs if you’re craving fruity and flaky.
• Baked Apple Empanadas for a portable, pastry-style dessert.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest muffin or dessert board so it’s easy to find next time you need a quick fall-flavored bake.

Tried them? Leave a comment below and tell me how they turned out! Did you mix in nuts or go classic? Maybe a caramel drizzle on top?

I’d love to hear your twist on these! And if you’re looking for daily inspiration, don’t forget to check out my Pinterest board for more sweet ideas from Nina Dishes.

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