Applesauce Oat Muffins

Applesauce Oat Muffins are a delightful and healthy treat, perfect for breakfast or a snack. These moist and flavorful muffins are made with wholesome oats and naturally sweetened with applesauce. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or cooled down, theyโ€™re great for any time of the day and loved by both kids and adults.

Preparation Time:


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  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
  • Total Time: 28-30 minutes
    Servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients:

  • 1 ยพ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup oats (old-fashioned or quick oats)
  • ยฝ cup sugar
  • 1 ยฝ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ยฝ teaspoon baking soda
  • ยผ teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • ยฝ cup milk
  • ยผ cup oil (canola or vegetable)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 tablespoon oats, for topping (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Prepare a muffin tin by spraying it with nonstick spray or lining with paper liners.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
  4. Combine the Mixtures:
    • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients along with the applesauce. Stir just until the flour is incorporatedโ€”be careful not to overmix.
  5. Fill the Muffin Tins:
    • Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Sprinkle the tops with a few extra oats if desired.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
  7. Cool:
    • Let the muffins cool in the pan for 3-5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Serve:
    • Enjoy the muffins warm or fully cooled.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with a dollop of yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
  • Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
  • Spread with butter or honey for added sweetness.

Cooking Tips:

  • Avoid overmixing: Overmixing the batter can make the muffins dense. Stir just until combined for a fluffy texture.
  • Add-ins: Customize your muffins by adding 1/2 cup of raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
  • Control sweetness: Use unsweetened applesauce to manage the sweetness level, or adjust the sugar as desired.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Oats: Provide dietary fiber, which helps promote digestion and may lower cholesterol.
  • Applesauce: Rich in vitamin C and adds moisture to the muffins without the need for extra fat.
  • Eggs: Offer high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Dietary Information:

  • Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk with a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk to make the muffins dairy-free.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.

Nutritional Facts (per muffin):

  • Calories: 190
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 12g

Storage:

  • Room Temperature: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: These muffins freeze well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before serving.

Why Youโ€™ll Love This Recipe:

  • Quick and Easy: The batter comes together in minutes, making this a perfect recipe for busy mornings or meal prep.
  • Healthy and Delicious: These muffins are naturally sweetened with applesauce, packed with fiber, and low in added sugar.
  • Versatile and Kid-Friendly: Whether you add mix-ins like raisins or chocolate chips, these muffins are a hit with both kids and adults.
  • Wholesome Ingredients: Made with oats, applesauce, and minimal fat, these muffins offer a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion:

These Applesauce Oat Muffins are a wholesome and flavorful option thatโ€™s simple to make and enjoyable at any time of day. Whether you savor them fresh or reheated, these muffins are sure to become a favorite for their nutritious profile and delicious taste. Try them for breakfast, a snack, or a healthy treat that you can feel good about sharing!