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 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup plain yogurt; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 1 cup grated apple (about 1 medium apple); 1/4 cup rolled oats (for topping)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love starting my mornings with a warm muffin, especially when it's a delightful blend of cinnamon and fresh apple. These Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins have become a staple in my kitchen because they strike the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent. The addition of yogurt keeps them moist and adds a subtle tanginess that pairs beautifully with the sweet apples and warm spices. Trust me, once you take a bite, you'll find it hard to stop at just one!

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:01:23.288Z

When I first tried making muffins with yogurt, I was pleasantly surprised by how moist they turned out. I experimented with a few different flavor combinations, but the cinnamon and apple variant has truly stolen my heart. It’s important to use freshly grated apples, as they release moisture during baking and enhance the flavor profile. I also love adding a sprinkle of oats on top for a little crunch!

One of the best tips I can share is to not overmix the batter. This keeps the muffins light and fluffy. I usually mix until just combined; the lumps don’t bother me, and they create an interesting texture. Pair them with a cup of coffee, and you’ll have the perfect cozy morning treat!

        Why You Will Love These Muffins
        Warm and comforting cinnamon flavor paired with fresh apples
Moist texture thanks to the yogurt, keeping each bite soft
Easy to make, perfect for brunch or a quick breakfast on-the-go

      

Perfecting the Muffin Texture

One of the key elements that sets these muffins apart is the use of yogurt in the batter. Yogurt not only adds moisture but also contributes a slight tang that heightens the overall flavor profile. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider substituting the plain yogurt with a plant-based yogurt made from almond or coconut milk. This allows you to maintain the intended moisture and texture while catering to dietary needs.

Avoid over-mixing the batter after combining wet and dry ingredients as this can lead to tough muffins. You want to mix just until the ingredients are moistened. A few lumps are perfectly fine. The goal is to keep the muffins tender and soft, so take care to treat the batter gently during this step.

Serving and Storage Tips

These muffins are delicious served warm, straight out of the oven. However, if you're preparing them ahead of time, they can last up to three days at room temperature in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be stored for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or microwave for a quick reheat.

You can also elevate these muffins by serving them with a dollop of flavored cream cheese or Greek yogurt on the side. For a fun variation, try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch. Just remember to chop them coarsely and fold them in with the grated apple.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start baking your delicious muffins!

Muffin Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 cup grated apple (about 1 medium apple)
1/4 cup rolled oats (for topping)

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's move on to the fun part!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your mouthwatering muffins.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the yogurt, milk, vegetable oil, and egg until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in the Apples

Gently fold the grated apple into the batter until evenly distributed.

Spoon Batter into Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Sprinkle a little rolled oats on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

Now that your muffins are ready, savor them with your favorite beverage!

Pro Tips

Make sure to use fresh apples for the best flavor and moisture. These muffins also freeze well, so you can enjoy them later by simply reheating them in the microwave.

Ingredient Role Insights

The balance of all-purpose and whole wheat flour not only boosts the nutritional profile of these muffins but also provides a hearty texture. Whole wheat flour adds fiber, which contributes to feeling fuller longer. If you prefer a lighter muffin, you can increase the all-purpose flour to 1.5 cups and decrease whole wheat accordingly, but the original ratio helps retain a rustic charm.

Cinnamon plays a crucial role in these muffins, infusing warmth and depth to the flavor. If you're looking for a stronger spice kick, feel free to increase the cinnamon to 1.5 teaspoons. Alternatively, you could combine it with a pinch of nutmeg for a layered spice experience.

Troubleshooting Common Muffin Issues

If you find that your muffins are sinking in the middle, it could be due to underbaking. Make sure to bake until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the center, which usually takes about 20-22 minutes. Always check a minute or two earlier than the stated time as oven temperatures can vary.

Another common issue is dry muffins, often a result of overbaking or using too much flour. To measure flour accurately, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can compact the flour and lead to excess. You might also want to check the freshness of your baking powder and soda, as expired leavening agents can prevent proper rise and moisture retention.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole grain flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole grain flour, but it might change the texture slightly.

→ How long do these muffins last?

Stored in an airtight container, these muffins can last for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a month in the freezer.

→ Can I add nuts or raisins to the mixture?

Absolutely! Adding nuts or raisins will add an extra crunch and flavor to the muffins.

→ What can I substitute for yogurt?

You can substitute yogurt with applesauce or buttermilk if needed.