Looking to sweeten your day without the guilt? This delicious AIP-friendly Apple Cinnamon Muffin recipe is your answer! These moist and fluffy muffins are naturally sweetened with honey and loaded with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or as a delightful snack, they’re a treat you can feel good about!
Budget Information
The total cost for this delightful batch of Apple Cinnamon Muffins is approximately $10.50. With about 12 muffins yielded from the recipe, the cost per serving comes to just about $0.88. Now you can indulge in deliciousness without breaking the bank!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines because it marries simple, wholesome ingredients with the satisfying sweetness of fruit and honey. The fluffy texture of the muffins is amplified by the apples, which also keep them moist and delicious. Plus, by using honey instead of refined sugar, you’re making a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. These muffins are perfect for breakfast on-the-go or a wholesome treat in the afternoon!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to bake these scrumptious muffins:
- 2 cups almond flour (about $4.00) – You can substitute with coconut flour, but you’ll need to adjust the quantity.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (about $0.10) – Baking powder can work in a pinch.
- ½ teaspoon salt (about $0.05) – A pinch of sea salt enhances flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (about $0.50) – Feel free to add nutmeg for extra warmth.
- 3 large eggs (about $1.50) – You can use flax eggs if preferred for a vegan spin.
- ½ cup honey (about $2.50) – Maple syrup is a great alternative, or try agave nectar.
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (about $1.50) – You can use grated apples to achieve the same sweetness.
- 1 cup diced apples (about $1.00) – Any variety will do, but sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp are the best!
Step-by-step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it with a little coconut oil. Preheating the oven ensures that your muffins bake evenly and rise perfectly!
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth muffin texture! The warm fragrance of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, making it feel delightful.
Step 3: In another bowl, beat the eggs before adding in the honey and applesauce. Mix everything until it’s creamy and well blended. The glossy mixture will bring a beautiful shine to your muffins!
Step 4: Slowly combine the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep those muffins light and fluffy! Add in the diced apples last, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Spoon the muffin batter equally into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ of the way full. This allows for that delightful muffin rise without spilling over the edges!
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. As they bake, your home will be filled with the heavenly scent of baked apples and cinnamon that’s sure to draw everyone to the kitchen.
Step 7: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling step helps to set the muffins firmly and makes for easier handling without falling apart.
Nutritional Facts
Per muffin, you can expect:
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
Once cooled, store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or let them thaw at room temperature. Freshly baked muffins, day after day? Yes, please!
Serving Suggestions
These muffins are delightful on their own, but why not take it a step further? Serve them warm with a smear of almond butter or a drizzle of maple syrup for a delicious treat. They also pair beautifully with a steaming cup of herbal tea or your morning coffee. Imagine the cozy vibes!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Want to mix things up? Try adding in some chopped nuts for added crunch, or a handful of dried cranberries for a burst of tartness. You can also switch out the apples for pears or even mashed bananas for a whole new flavor profile. And don’t worry about making them perfect—baking is all about having fun in the kitchen!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these muffins vegan? Yes! Use flax eggs in place of the regular eggs.
What if I don’t have almond flour? You can use coconut flour, but make sure to use only 1/3 of the amount since it’s more absorbent.
Can I bake these muffins in a different pan? Absolutely! You can use a loaf pan—just adjust the baking time to about 50 minutes.
Are they gluten-free? Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free!
Can I add spices other than cinnamon? Definitely! Nutmeg or ginger would be fantastic additions for more warmth and depth of flavor.
