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, they’re great for any time of the day and loved by both kids and adults.

Preparation Time:

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

Ingredients:

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup oats (old-fashioned or quick oats)
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup milk
  • ¼ 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 375°F (190°C). 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 incorporated—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 You’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 that’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!