Applesauce Oat Muffins are a delightful and healthy treat, ideal for breakfast or a snack. These moist and flavorful muffins are made with wholesome oats and sweetened naturally with applesauce. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or cooled down, they’re perfect for any time of day.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Total Time: 28-30 minutes
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)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare muffin tins by spraying with nonstick spray or lining with paper liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients along with the applesauce. Mix just until the flour is incorporated; avoid overmixing.
- Fill Muffin Tins:
- Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Sprinkle the tops with oats if desired.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 3-5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve:
- Serve the muffins warm or fully cooled.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy 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 to maintain a fluffy texture.
- Customize by adding 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Use unsweetened applesauce to control sweetness.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats provide dietary fiber and can help lower cholesterol.
- Applesauce is rich in vitamin C and adds moisture without additional fat.
- Eggs contribute high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
Dietary Information:
- Make dairy-free by using a plant-based milk alternative.
- For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Muffins can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy preparation.
- Healthy and delicious, suitable for any meal.
- Versatile and kid-friendly.
- Made with wholesome ingredients for guilt-free enjoyment.
Conclusion:
These Applesauce Oat Muffins are a wholesome and flavorful option that’s simple to make and enjoyable throughout the day. Whether you savor them fresh or reheated, these muffins are sure to be a favorite for their nutritious profile and delicious taste.