Name: Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples; 1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping); 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)

Craving a cozy, bakery-style muffin that makes your kitchen smell like fall? These Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins hit the spot with a buttery crumb topping, tender apple chunks, and warm cinnamon baked into every bite.

Whether you’re prepping breakfast for the week or need a sweet companion for your afternoon coffee, these muffins are as effortless as they are comforting. With just a few pantry staples and fresh apples, you can whip up a batch in under an hour. Perfect for meal prep, bake sales, or just treating yourself on a crisp morning.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into mixing, let’s make sure your kitchen is equipped. These tools are essential for both ease and consistency:

Mixing bowls (at least two sizes) — One for dry and one for wet ingredients. This keeps textures consistent and prevents overmixing.
Whisk and rubber spatula — A whisk helps combine dry ingredients evenly, while a spatula is ideal for folding the batter gently.
Muffin pan and paper liners — The right muffin tin ensures uniform baking, and liners make cleanup (and serving) easier.
Ice cream scoop or spoon — For evenly portioned muffins that bake at the same rate.
Cooling rack — Allows air circulation to prevent sogginess at the base.

Having these tools ready sets you up for stress-free baking and perfectly domed muffins every time.

Ingredients for the Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins

All-purpose flour — The base of the muffins, it gives them structure while keeping the crumb tender.
Granulated sugar — Sweetens the batter and also helps with browning.
Baking powder — Provides lift, making each muffin soft and fluffy.
Ground cinnamon — Infuses the muffins with warm spice flavor.
Salt — Enhances all the other flavors.
Milk — Adds moisture to create a soft texture.
Egg — Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
Melted butter — Adds buttery flavor and keeps the muffins moist.
Vanilla extract — Rounds out the sweetness with aromatic depth.
Apples (peeled and diced) — The star ingredient! Brings natural sweetness, texture, and seasonal charm.
Brown sugar and cinnamon (for topping) — Creates a crunchy, flavorful topping that sets these muffins apart.

How To Make the Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin pan with paper liners. Lightly spray the liners for extra non-stick assurance.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate larger bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Bring It Together

Gradually add the dry mix into the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix—the batter should be slightly lumpy.

Step 5: Add Apples

Fold in the diced apples evenly. The chunks should be small enough to distribute throughout the batter without sinking.

Step 6: Portion and Top

Scoop the batter into muffin cups, filling about 3/4 full. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle generously over the top of each muffin.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake for 20–22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let muffins rest in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve and Store Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins

These muffins are best served warm, either straight from the oven or reheated gently in the microwave. Pair them with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of whipped cream for a cozy treat.

To store, let the muffins cool completely, then place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or warm in the microwave for 20 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of apples work best for these muffins?

Firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith hold their shape well and add a good balance of tart and sweet.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

How do I prevent soggy bottoms?

Cool the muffins on a wire rack and avoid letting them sit too long in the pan after baking.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

You can substitute melted coconut oil or vegetable oil for the butter, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Do these muffins freeze well?

Absolutely! Let them cool, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the microwave as needed.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Yes! Add up to 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or raisins to the batter for extra texture and flavor.

Want More Apple Dessert Ideas?

You might also love the Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake, perfect with a morning cup of coffee. Or try my Apple Enchiladas if you’re craving a warm, cinnamon-filled dessert.

Looking for slow-cooked apple comfort? Check out the Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples.

For more fun twists, give my Cinnamon Donut Bread a go or bake the Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a fruity, creamy bite.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dessert boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add walnuts? Try a different apple variety? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others bake it.

Explore more cozy bakes and daily ideas over on my Pinterest at LadyPlate.