Applesauce Muffins – Moist, Healthy & Irresistibly Easy!

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Looking for a quick, healthy breakfast or snack? These applesauce muffins are naturally sweetened, incredibly moist, and ready in just 30 minutes! Made with simple pantry ingredients, they’re butter-free, easy to customize, and loved by kids and adults alike.

Unlike traditional muffins loaded with oil and sugar, this version uses unsweetened applesauce to keep them light, fluffy, and guilt-free. Perfect for meal prep, school lunches, or a cozy coffee companion!

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Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before starting, gather these essential tools:

• 12-cup muffin tin (or silicone liners for easy removal)
• Mixing bowls (large + medium)
• Whisk & spatula
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Cooling rack

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Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for healthier option)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg (optional, for warmth)

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (homemade or store-bought)
• ½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for lower GI)
• ⅓ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan)
• 2 tbsp melted coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup raisins or chopped walnuts
• 1 diced apple (for extra texture)
• Cinnamon sugar topping (1 tbsp sugar + ½ tsp cinnamon)

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How to Make Applesauce Muffins

Step 1: Prep the Oven & Muffin Tin

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line muffin tin with liners or grease lightly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, mix applesauce, brown sugar, milk, egg, oil, and vanilla.

Step 4: Combine & Fill

• Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Gently fold until just combined (don’t overmix!).
• Stir in raisins, nuts, or diced apple (if using).
• Divide batter evenly into 12 muffin cups (fill ⅔ full).

Step 5: Bake & Cool

• Bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let cool 5 minutes in tin, then transfer to a cooling rack.

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Variations

✅ Gluten-Free – Use 1:1 gluten-free flour.
✅ Vegan – Swap egg for flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
✅ Lower Sugar – Reduce sugar to ¼ cup (applesauce adds sweetness).
✅ Protein Boost – Add ½ cup Greek yogurt to batter.

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Cooking Notes

⚠ Don’t overmix – Leads to dense muffins.
⚠ Check early – Ovens vary; start checking at 16 mins.
⚠ Storage – Keep in airtight container for 3 days or freeze for 1 month.

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Serving Suggestions

🍽 Pair with:

• Whipped honey butter
• Greek yogurt & fresh berries
• Hot coffee or chai tea

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Helpful Tips

🔹 Use room temp ingredients – Ensures even mixing.
🔹 Homemade applesauce – Boosts flavor (simply cook peeled apples + cinnamon).
🔹 Double batch – Freeze extras for quick breakfasts!

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Tips for the Best Applesauce Muffins

✔ Fill liners ⅔ full – Prevents overflow.
✔ Add streusel topping – Mix 2 tbsp flour, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp butter for crunch.
✔ Cool completely – Before storing to avoid sogginess.

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Prep Time: 10 mins

Cooking Time: 18-20 mins

Total Time: 30 mins

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Nutritional Information (Per Muffin)

Calories: ~150 | Protein: 3g | Carbs: 28g | Fat: 3g | Fiber: 1g

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FAQs

1. Can I use sweetened applesauce?

Yes, but reduce sugar by half to avoid overly sweet muffins.

2. Why are my muffins gummy?

Likely overmixed or underbaked—fold gently and test doneness.

3. Can I make mini muffins?

Yes! Bake for 10-12 minutes instead.

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Conclusion

These applesauce muffins are the perfect balance of moist, fluffy, and wholesome—ideal for busy mornings or afternoon snacks. With no butter, easy swaps, and kid-friendly appeal, they’re a must-try recipe you’ll make again and again!

Grab your bowl and bake a batch today! 🍎🧁