Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins

Name: Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup whole wheat flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup peeled and diced apples (approximately 1 large apple)

Highlighted under: Baked Meals

I absolutely adore these Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins! The combination of creamy yogurt and delicious fresh apples creates a moist texture that keeps them perfectly soft. Each bite bursts with warm cinnamon, making them not just a treat for breakfast but also a delightful snack. I’ve found that letting the batter sit for a few minutes before baking helps keep the muffins light and fluffy. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to keep them in your regular baking rotation!

Created by

Odette Fairbanks

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:45:41.136Z

When I first baked these muffins, I was enchanted by the aroma that filled my kitchen. The combination of cinnamon and baked apples is irresistible, and I couldn't wait to share them with my family. My secret tip is to sauté the apple pieces in a bit of butter before adding them to the batter; this brings out their natural sweetness and ensure they stay beautifully tender.

Since this recipe uses yogurt, the muffins are wonderfully moist without being overly dense. Each bite feels indulgent yet light, making them perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. I've also experimented by adding walnuts for an extra crunch, and they turn out just as delightful!

Why You'll Love These Muffins
Moist and fluffy texture thanks to yogurt
Delightful aroma of fresh apples and cinnamon
Perfect for breakfast or snacks with a warm cup of tea

Perfecting the Muffin Texture

The key to achieving the moist and fluffy texture of these Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins lies in the yogurt itself. Yogurt not only adds moisture but also acts as a natural tenderizer, helping to create that delightful soft crumb. Make sure to use full-fat plain yogurt for the best results, as it contributes to the overall richness of the muffins. If you're watching calories, a low-fat yogurt can be substituted but may yield a slightly denser muffin.

Avoid overmixing the batter when combining wet and dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined helps prevent gluten development, which can lead to dense, rubbery muffins. It’s perfectly fine if there are a few lumps in the batter; these will bake out, resulting in a lighter texture. Trust me, following this step will make a noticeable difference in the final product.

Choosing Your Apples Wisely

The type of apple you use can drastically impact the flavor and texture of the muffins. While sweet apples like Fuji or Gala are great for adding natural sweetness, I prefer the balance of tartness that Granny Smith apples bring. Their acidity cuts through the sweetness of the muffins, creating a wonderful flavor contrast. However, feel free to mix different varieties of apples for added depth.

When chopping your apples, aim for even-sized cubes to ensure they cook uniformly during baking. A rough chop of about 1/2-inch pieces is ideal, as it allows for some juicy bites while still integrating well with the batter. If you have leftover apples, consider making a quick apple compote to serve on the side for an extra special treat!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make delightful muffins:

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup melted butter
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup peeled and diced apples (approximately 1 large apple)

Mix these ingredients well to ensure a smooth batter!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect muffins:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Prepare Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the yogurt, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Fill Muffin Tin

Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.

Bake the Muffins

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade treats!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping the apples for pears. You can also sprinkle some oats or nuts on top before baking for added texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins store wonderfully, making them perfect for meal prep. Once completely cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, consider refrigerating them, though I recommend bringing them to room temperature before enjoying. Alternatively, freeze the muffins by wrapping each one individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or bake them from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. A quick reheat will liven up the cinnamon aroma and ensure they taste fresh, just like when they first came out of the oven!

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to modify this recipe for dietary preferences, consider swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, which will help mimic the elasticity of traditional flour. Alternatively, you can replace the sugar with a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup. Use approximately 3/4 cup of honey or maple syrup, but reduce the yogurt by 1/4 cup to maintain the right batter consistency.

For a fun twist, try adding a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch and flavor. You could also experiment with spices; a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can beautifully complement the cinnamon and apple combination. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on what you have available!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the yogurt with something else?

Yes, you can use applesauce or sour cream as substitutes for yogurt.

→ How do I store the muffins?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to a month.

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

Absolutely! Just ensure you are using a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

→ How can I make these muffins healthier?

You can reduce the sugar content and add more fruits or nuts for added nutrition.