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 plain yogurt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup peeled and diced apples

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I'm excited to share my recipe for Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins, which have quickly become a favorite in our household. These muffins are soft, moist, and bursting with the delicious flavors of sweet apples and warming cinnamon. Using yogurt not only adds tanginess but also keeps the muffins tender and light. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a midday snack, these muffins are sure to brighten your day. Let’s dive in; you won't want to miss out on this delightful recipe!

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:52:18.230Z

When I first baked these Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins, I wasn't sure how they would turn out. However, the combination of apples and cinnamon is always a win in my book, so I took the plunge! The first bite confirmed my suspicions; they were not just good but absolutely delicious and comforting. The yogurt adds a lovely moistness that pairs perfectly with the fruity chunks.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Depending on my mood, I sometimes toss in walnuts or swap out the apples for pears. This flexibility means I get to keep my family guessing, and they love that each batch can taste a little different. Trust me, once you try them, you'll find yourself making these muffins again and again!

        Why You Will Love These Muffins
        Warm cinnamon flavor enveloping tender apples
Moist and fluffy texture thanks to yogurt
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings

      

The Magic of Yogurt in Muffins

Yogurt is a game-changer in muffin recipes like these Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins. It not only adds a delightful tang but also contributes to a moist, fluffy texture due to its acidity, which activates the baking soda. This reaction creates those beautiful, airy pockets in your muffins. When using yogurt, opt for plain varieties to avoid added sugars that might alter the flavor balance. Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute if you prefer a thicker consistency, giving an even richer mouthfeel.

The choice of yogurt can significantly influence the final flavor and texture of the muffins. For an added twist, try swapping plain yogurt for flavored versions, such as vanilla or cinnamon, to enhance the existing flavor profile. Just be cautious with the sugar content in flavored yogurt, as it may lead to overly sweet muffins. My favorite approach is to mix plain yogurt with a teaspoon of vanilla for a little extra richness.

Choosing the Right Apples

The type of apples you use can dramatically affect the taste and texture of your muffins. Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji hold their shape well during baking, adding both texture and flavor. I recommend using a mix for added complexity; combining sweet and tart apples balances the overall sweetness of the muffin. Chop them into small dice to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the batter, creating those delightful bursts of apple in every bite.

If fresh apples aren't available, consider using applesauce for a different take on moisture. Replace half the diced apples with an equal amount of applesauce, which will enhance the muffin's moisture but may slightly alter the texture. This can be a great option for those who prefer a smoother consistency. However, reduce the sugar in the recipe slightly, as applesauce adds natural sweetness.

Storage and Enjoyment Tips

These muffins are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for up to three days at room temperature in an airtight container. If you’d like to keep them longer, freezing is an excellent option. Allow the muffins to cool completely, then individually wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They’ll last up to three months in the freezer, and you can reheat them in the microwave for about 20 seconds for a hot, comforting snack.

For a delightful twist when serving, consider drizzling a light glaze over the muffins once they have cooled. A simple mix of powdered sugar and a bit of milk or yogurt creates a lovely, sweet finishing touch. If you want to take it a step further, sprinkle some chopped nuts or oatmeal on top before baking for added crunch and nutrition. These muffins are versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your taste.

Ingredients

For the Muffins

1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup peeled and diced apples

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, sugar, oil, egg, and vanilla. Whisk until well blended.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed.

Fill Muffin Cups

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.

Bake

Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or raisins. Also, if you're a fan of spice, you can increase the cinnamon or add a touch of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Baking Tips for Success

When baking these muffins, even temperature control is vital for achieving the ideal texture. If your oven tends to run hot or cold, invest in an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. Muffins baked at the wrong temperature might rise unevenly, leading to a dense texture. Aim for a golden-brown top, and remember that subtle changes, like slight browning on the edges, indicate they are ready.

Another common trouble is overmixing, which can lead to tough muffins. Mix until just combined to keep the batter light and airy. Don’t fret if there are a few small lumps; they're part of the charm of homemade muffins. Gently folding the apples into the batter at the end helps maintain that tender texture while ensuring each bite has a bit of apple.

Celebrating Variations

Feel free to personalize the mix-ins for these muffins! Adding a cup of chopped nuts or a handful of raisins can introduce additional flavors and textures. You can also experiment with spices: nutmeg, cloves, or ginger can complement the cinnamon beautifully, creating a seasonal feel. If you wish to make them chocolatey, folding in some dark chocolate chips will transform the muffins into a decadent treat without compromising the apple-cinnamon theme.

If you want to create a low-sugar version, substitute half the granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like coconut sugar or maple syrup. Just remember that this might slightly alter the moisture content, so you may need to adjust the liquid ingredients if using a liquid sweetener. Tailoring the recipe to your dietary needs can make these muffins not only delicious but also more accessible!

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrients.

→ How should I store these muffins?

Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these muffins?

Absolutely! Allow the muffins to cool completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ Can I substitute the yogurt with something else?

If you don't have yogurt, you can use sour cream or buttermilk as alternatives, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.