Applesauce Muffins

In the heart of small-town America, where mornings start with a gentle sunrise and the smell of fresh coffee, Classic Applesauce Oat Muffins have become a cherished tradition. Passed down through generations, this recipe captures the essence of simple, wholesome baking. These muffins are a delightful blend of applesauce, oats, and walnuts, creating a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness that make every bite unforgettable. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, these muffins embody the warmth and comfort of home. Join us on this delicious journey as we explore how to make these timeless treats, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Course : Breakfast/Snack

Cuisine : American

Prep Time : 15 minutes

Cook Time : 20 minutes

Servings : 12 muffins

Calories : 259 kcal per muffin

Ingredients :

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender crumb.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with a subtle spice.
• ¼ teaspoon allspice: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures the muffins rise beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps with leavening.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 2 large eggs: Provides structure and moisture.
• 1 ⅓ cups all-natural unsweetened applesauce: The key ingredient for moisture and flavor.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins moist and tender.
• ½ cup brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
• ½ cup rolled oats: Adds texture and a nutty flavor.
• ½ cup chopped walnuts: Offers a delightful crunch in every bite.

Instructions :

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This initial high heat will create a nice dome on your muffins, giving them that bakery-perfect look.
2. Line the Muffin Tin: Line a standard 12-count muffin tin with paper baking cups. Paper liners make for easy cleanup and help keep the muffins intact when removing them from the tin.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blend of spices is the heart of the muffin’s flavor, reminiscent of cozy autumn mornings.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

4. Beat the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until they are light and frothy. This helps incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a fluffy muffin.
5. Add the Applesauce Mixture: To the beaten eggs, add the applesauce, vegetable oil, and brown sugar. Stir until well combined. The applesauce not only provides natural sweetness but also contributes to the moistness of the muffins.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

6. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently, folding the batter just until the flour disappears. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins.
7. Add Oats and Walnuts: Fold in the rolled oats and chopped walnuts. These ingredients add texture and a wholesome, nutty flavor, making each bite satisfying and hearty.

Step 5: Fill and Bake the Muffins

8. Spoon the Batter: Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling them almost to the top. This will ensure your muffins have a nice, full shape.
9. Start Baking at High Heat: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes. This initial high heat helps the muffins rise quickly.
10. Reduce the Temperature: After 5 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Continue baking for an additional 11-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. This method ensures that the muffins are perfectly cooked inside without drying out.
11. Cool the Muffins: Once baked, let the muffins cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the muffins to firm up and enhances their flavor as they cool.

Tips for Perfect Muffins

• Accurate Flour Measuring: To avoid dense muffins, spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents packing, which can lead to a heavy batter.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter only until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing activates gluten, resulting in a tough texture.
• Versatile Nut Options: Feel free to substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans, almonds, or pistachios for a different flavor twist.
• Paper Liners: Using paper liners not only makes cleanup easy but also helps the muffins retain moisture and shape.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Keep your muffins fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• Reheating: To enjoy warm muffins, microwave them for 15-20 seconds. This quick reheating revives the flavors and brings back the freshly baked taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Muffin)

• Calories: 259 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0.1g
• Cholesterol: 27mg
• Sodium: 144mg
• Potassium: 101mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 12g
• Vitamin A: 50 IU
• Vitamin C: 0.4mg
• Calcium: 46mg
• Iron: 2mg

Conclusion :

In the bustling kitchens of small towns, where simplicity meets tradition, Classic Applesauce Oat Muffins have stood the test of time. These muffins are more than just a treat—they are a heartfelt connection to a slower pace of life, where the little things matter. With their tender crumb, flavorful spices, and satisfying crunch, they bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia to every table. Whether you’re starting your day with a wholesome breakfast or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack, these muffins are sure to please. Embrace the charm of small-town living and share the joy of baking with your loved ones through this timeless recipe.

Source of the picture : smalltownwoman