Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Muffins

Name: Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tsp nutmeg; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 2 cups peeled and diced apples

Highlighted under: Sweet & Baked

I’ve always loved the smell of cinnamon and apples mingling in the air, and when I discovered a recipe for Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Muffins, I knew I had to try it. Each bite is a warm, comforting experience that feels like a hug in the morning. I experimented with different spices and apple varieties to really bring out the flavor, finally landing on a delightful mix of tart and sweet. These muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast and make the kitchen smell heavenly while baking!

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-02-14T22:25:36.060Z

When I first made these muffins, I was on the hunt for a breakfast option that would fill the house with warmth and comfort. The combination of Granny Smith apples and fragrant cinnamon did just that! I love how adding a pinch of nutmeg elevates the flavor without overpowering the apple.

The secret to perfectly moist muffins lies in not over-mixing the batter. This was a game-changer for me; it keeps the muffins fluffy and tender. Plus, they freeze beautifully, so I can whip up a batch and enjoy them all week!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfectly moist texture that holds well
Great for breakfast or as a snack!

The Importance of Apples and Spices

The type of apples you choose plays a crucial role in the overall flavor of your muffins. Tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the sugar, balancing the flavors perfectly. If you prefer a sweeter muffin, go for Gala or Fuji apples. Just ensure they're peeled and diced uniformly so they cook evenly in the batter, resulting in tender bites that carry the essence of the fruit.

Cinnamon is the star spice in this recipe, but don't shy away from experimenting with other spices to enhance the flavor. Adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice can deepen the warm notes, while a touch of vanilla extract in the wet ingredients adds depth. For a delightful twist, consider sprinkling a cinnamon-sugar mixture on top before baking for a crunchy, sweet finish.

Mastering Muffin Texture

Achieving the right muffin texture requires attention during the mixing process. Be careful not to overmix once you combine the wet and dry ingredients; a little lumpy batter is okay. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins instead of the desired light and fluffy crumb. Mix until the dry ingredients are just incorporated, then gently fold in your apples. This technique helps maintain the muffins' tender texture while ensuring the apples are evenly distributed.

Another key factor is the baking time. Keeping a close eye on your muffins as they bake is essential. Depending on your oven's calibration, cooking times can vary slightly. Start checking for doneness around 18 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached. If your muffins are browning too quickly but are still undercooked, you can tent them with aluminum foil for the last few minutes to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Muffin Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
2 cups peeled and diced apples

Mix all the ingredients well and be careful with over-mixing.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it with cooking spray.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until combined.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter, milk, and eggs until well blended.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples.

Fill Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding chopped walnuts or raisins to the batter. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a crispy finish!

Make-Ahead Tips

These Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Muffins can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment. Once fully cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the muffins individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

For added convenience, you can also prepare your dry ingredients a day or two in advance. Mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and spices in a bowl, then store it in an airtight container. This allows you to simply add your wet ingredients and apples on the day of baking, speeding up your morning routine.

Serving Suggestions

These muffins are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by serving them with a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone spread. The rich, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm muffins, adding an indulgent touch. Alternatively, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can add sweetness and visual appeal.

If you're serving these muffins for a brunch gathering, consider pairing them with a warm beverage such as spiced apple cider or a rich herbal tea. Their cozy flavors complement festive drinks, making them perfect for a seasonal menu. Adding a fresh fruit salad on the side can also enhance the meal, balancing the richness of the muffins.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ How do I store leftover muffins?

Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! Pears or berries work wonderfully as substitutes for apples.

→ What can I do if my muffins are too dense?

Make sure not to over-mix the batter, and check that your baking powder is fresh. Both can lead to dense muffins.