Easy Applesauce Muffins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Applesauce Muffins are moist, fluffy, and full of warm cinnamon flavor with a subtle sweetness from applesauce. These one-bowl muffins come together quickly and make for a healthy breakfast, snack, or lunchbox treat. They’re especially great for using up pantry staples and are kid-approved for taste and texture.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
baking soda
baking powder
salt
ground cinnamon
unsweetened applesauce
vegetable oil
granulated sugar
brown sugar
eggs
vanilla extract

directions

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

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

In another bowl, combine the applesauce, oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined—do not overmix.

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 muffins.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 18–22 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Mix in raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity touch.
Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Sprinkle with oats or cinnamon sugar before baking for a bakery-style top.

storage/reheating

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use sweetened applesauce?

Yes, but you may want to reduce the added sugar slightly to compensate.

Can I make these muffins vegan?

Yes, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based oil and sugar.

Can I add fresh fruit?

Chopped apples or grated carrots make great additions.

Why are my muffins dense?

Overmixing the batter can cause dense muffins. Mix just until combined.

Can I make mini muffins?

Absolutely, just reduce the baking time to about 10–12 minutes.

Are these muffins good for toddlers?

Yes, especially if made with reduced sugar and no nuts for safety.

Can I add oats?

Yes, you can substitute part of the flour with quick oats for texture.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Yes, melted butter works and adds a rich flavor.

Do these muffins rise well?

Yes, the combination of baking soda and powder gives them a nice dome.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, it doubles easily—perfect for meal prepping.

Conclusion

Easy Applesauce Muffins are a wholesome and delicious option for busy mornings or cozy snacks. With their soft crumb, warm spice, and easy prep, they’re sure to become a regular in your baking rotation. Try a batch and enjoy the comforting flavor of apples in every bite.

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