There is something wonderfully comforting about homemade muffins, especially when they are bursting with fresh flavors. This Greek Yogurt Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe brings together the creamy tang of Greek yogurt, the warm spice of cinnamon, and the natural sweetness of crisp apples to create tender, moist muffins that feel like a cozy hug in every bite. Not only are they perfect for breakfast or a midday treat, but they also turn simple, wholesome ingredients into a delightful experience you’ll want to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are both simple and thoughtfully chosen, each playing a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the hearty whole wheat flour to the touch of maple syrup, every component adds its own magic to this Greek Yogurt Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe.
- 1/3 cup white flour: Adds lightness and helps create a tender crumb in the muffins.
- 1 tablespoon quick cooking oats: Provides a subtle chewiness and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: A warm, fragrant spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds caramel notes and a bit of moisture.
- 2 tablespoons cold stick butter: Enhances richness and flakiness in the muffins.
- 1/2 cup white flour: Works with whole wheat flour for structure and softness.
- 3/4 cup whole wheat flour: Brings a nutty flavor and wholesome texture.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps keep the muffins tender by softening the flour proteins.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Provides lift so your muffins rise beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: A second hit of comforting spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice: Adds complexity with a blend of warm spices.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: The star that makes these muffins extra moist and tender with a delightful tang.
- 1/4 cup oil: Keeps the muffins soft and fresh for longer.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Natural sweetness and subtle syrupy depth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with floral notes.
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar: For a slight molasses richness.
- 1 cup peeled and chopped apple: Fresh, juicy, and the essence of fall in every bite.
How to Make Greek Yogurt Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by mixing all the dry ingredients together, including the flours, oats, cinnamon, apple pie spice, baking powder, cornstarch, salt, and sugars. This ensures that the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed, setting the stage for an even rise and consistent flavor throughout your muffins.
Step 2: Incorporate the Butter
Next, cut the cold stick butter into small pieces and work it into the dry mix with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key to creating tender muffins with a slightly crumbly top texture that’s simply irresistible.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, Greek yogurt, oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. The Greek yogurt is what makes these muffins stand out, adding moisture without heaviness, plus a gentle tang that cuts through the sweetness.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold them together until just combined. Avoid overmixing here, as that can make the muffins tough. Then fold in the chopped apples, which will add bursts of juiciness and beautiful texture.
Step 5: Bake the Muffins
Spoon the batter into a lined or greased muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for around 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma as they bake, setting your taste buds dancing with anticipation.
How to Serve Greek Yogurt Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top of the muffins before baking for a sweet, crunchy finish. For an extra touch, serve with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey that melts perfectly over the warm muffins.
Side Dishes
These muffins pair wonderfully with warm drinks like chai tea or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. For a fuller breakfast, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a creamy smoothie to balance flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the muffins in half and spread cream cheese or nut butter in the middle for a sandwich-style snack. You can even turn them into dessert by layering with vanilla Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for a parfait-inspired treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, keeping them in the fridge will extend their life to about a week without drying out.
Freezing
These Greek Yogurt Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
Warm muffins in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in an oven preheated to 325°F (160°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. Reheating slightly brings back that fresh-baked softness and revives their wonderful flavors.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
While regular yogurt can work, Greek yogurt’s thicker texture and higher protein content are ideal for keeping these muffins moist and tender. Using regular yogurt might result in a softer, less structured muffin.
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and offer a nice tang that perfectly complements the cinnamon and sweetness within the muffins.
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the wheat flours with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, you can create a gluten-free version. Just be sure your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Is it possible to reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can cut back the brown and light brown sugars slightly, or substitute with natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or honey. Just keep in mind that sweetness levels and moisture may vary.
How can I make these muffins vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, use a flax or chia egg substitute and replace the butter with a plant-based alternative. Also, swap Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond for best results.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Greek Yogurt Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe is like passing along a little piece of warmth and comfort. Its blend of wholesome ingredients, cozy spices, and fresh apple chunks makes it a standout favorite for any time of day. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth goodness as much as I do.
Print
Greek Yogurt Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these moist and flavorful Greek Yogurt Apple Cinnamon Muffins, perfect for a wholesome breakfast or a cozy snack. Combining the natural sweetness of apples with the warming spices of cinnamon and apple pie spice, these muffins boast a tender crumb thanks to Greek yogurt and a blend of whole wheat and white flours.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/3 cup white flour
- 1 tablespoon quick cooking oats
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white flour
- 3/4 cup whole wheat flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice
Wet Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cold stick butter
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup peeled and chopped apple
Instructions
- Prepare the streusel topping: In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup white flour, quick cooking oats, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and cold stick butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until crumbly. Set aside.
- Mix dry ingredients for batter: In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup white flour, 3/4 cup whole wheat flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and apple pie spice until well combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then add Greek yogurt, oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
- Incorporate wet and dry components: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender muffins.
- Add apples and fold in: Gently fold the peeled and chopped apple into the batter, ensuring even distribution.
- Fill muffin cups and top: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease well. Divide the batter evenly among the cups. Sprinkle the prepared streusel topping evenly over each muffin.
- Bake the muffins: Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the tops are golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove from oven and let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture and flavor.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
- Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to one week.
- These muffins freeze well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative and use coconut oil instead of butter and oil.
