Healthy Whole Wheat Apple Muffins Recipe

These Healthy Whole Wheat Apple Muffins are a delicious and wholesome treat packed with nutrients. Made with whole wheat flour, applesauce, and fresh apples, these muffins are naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup and flavored with warm spices like cinnamon and allspice. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, they are a great way to enjoy a healthy dose of fiber and antioxidants. Plus, they are quick and easy to make, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These muffins combine the sweetness of apples and maple syrup with the heartiness of whole wheat flour, creating a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. The addition of shredded apples not only makes them incredibly moist but also adds a natural sweetness. The warm spices elevate the flavor, making each bite feel comforting and satisfying. Plus, the muffins are made without refined sugar, and you can choose to add walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. They’re a guilt-free treat that’s both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (260g) whole wheat flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup (180g) smooth unsweetened applesauce, at room temperature
• 2/3 cup (160ml) pure maple syrup, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup (70g) coconut oil, melted (or vegetable oil or melted butter)
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups (210g) shredded/grated apple (about 2 peeled apples)
• Optional: 3/4 cup (about 90g) chopped pecans or walnuts
• Optional: 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling on top

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

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Spray a 12-count muffin pan with nonstick spray or line it with cupcake liners. Set it aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, applesauce, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir a few times until partially mixed, then add the shredded apple and optional nuts (pecans or walnuts). Using a silicone spatula, gently fold everything together until combined. The batter will be thick.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Pan

Spoon the batter into the muffin liners, filling them all the way to the top. If using, sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish.

Step 6: Bake the Muffins

Bake for 5 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C), keeping the muffins in the oven. Bake for an additional 16–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The total baking time is about 21–23 minutes. (For mini muffins, bake for 11–14 minutes at 350°F.)

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the muffins to cool for 5 minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to continue cooling. You can enjoy them warm or store them for later.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 12 regular-sized muffins
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Baking Time: 21–23 minutes
• Total Time: 31–33 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Omit the walnuts or pecans for a nut-free version.
• Add-Ins: Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free Version: If you prefer a gluten-free version, try substituting the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter or oil if you’re following a dairy-free diet.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: These muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, transfer them to the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Reheating: Reheat muffins in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular white flour instead of whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute regular all-purpose flour for the whole wheat flour, but the texture and nutritional value will be different.

2. Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute honey for maple syrup, but it will alter the flavor slightly.

3. Can I use a different type of oil?

You can use vegetable oil or melted butter in place of coconut oil. Each will give the muffins a slightly different flavor.

4. Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, these muffins freeze well. Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.

5. Can I add more spices to these muffins?

Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of cinnamon, or add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.

6. Can I make these muffins without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or use a store-bought egg replacer.

7. How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. The tops should also be lightly golden.

8. How can I make these muffins sweeter?

If you prefer sweeter muffins, add an extra tablespoon or two of maple syrup or a pinch of stevia or another sweetener of your choice.

9. Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?

Yes, you can try using pears, bananas, or even shredded carrots in place of the apples for a different flavor.

10. Can I make mini muffins instead of regular-sized ones?

Yes, simply use a mini muffin tin and bake for 11–14 minutes at 350°F, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

These Healthy Whole Wheat Apple Muffins are a nutritious, easy-to-make snack or breakfast option that the whole family will enjoy. Packed with natural sweetness from apples and maple syrup, and made with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour and coconut oil, they offer a healthier alternative to traditional muffins. Perfect for meal prep or an on-the-go treat, these muffins are a satisfying and delicious choice for any time of day.

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