If you’re searching for a cozy, delightful treat to warm up your mornings or sweeten your afternoons, this Cinnamon Stuffed Apple Muffins Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine biting into a moist, tender muffin bursting with the fresh zing of grated apple and a gooey, spiced cinnamon filling that perfectly balances sweet and warm notes. It’s a nostalgic hug in muffin form, packed with flavors that dance beautifully together, making these muffins not just a snack but a comforting experience that you’ll want to share with everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here is simple yet essential, coming together to create that perfect texture, taste, and aroma that makes this Cinnamon Stuffed Apple Muffins Recipe so memorable. From the crunch of ground nuts to the warm spice of cinnamon, each component plays a starring role.
- 3/4 cup ground walnuts (or almonds, or hazelnuts): Adds a nutty crunch and depth of flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: For natural sweetness and a hint of molasses richness in the filling.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or half and half or milk): Keeps the filling creamy and luscious.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: A key spice that infuses warmth and character into the filling and batter.
- 2 cups flour: The foundation that gives the muffins structure and a tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the muffin batter just right without overpowering the natural apple flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a touch of deeper sweetness to the batter.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the muffins rise beautifully, light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a subtle spicy zing that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins moist without heaviness.
- 4 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely, aromatic sweetness that rounds out the batter.
- 12 ounces finely grated apple (about 3-4 small-medium ones): The star ingredient that provides freshness and natural juiciness.
How to Make Cinnamon Stuffed Apple Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Nut Filling
Start by combining the ground walnuts, brown sugar, heavy cream, and one teaspoon of cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix these ingredients until they form a slightly thick, spreadable filling. This filling will serve as the irresistible cinnamon core that surprises you with every bite, adding a rich, gooey center bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Mix the Muffin Batter
In a larger bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt until evenly combined. In another bowl, beat the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently just until incorporated. Then, stir in the finely grated apple, distributing it evenly throughout the batter, which adds moisture and a hint of natural sweetness that defines this recipe.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly. To assemble, spoon about a tablespoon of batter into each muffin cup, then add a heaping teaspoon of the cinnamon nut filling into the center. Cover the filling with more batter until the cups are nearly full. This layering technique ensures every muffin has that delicious stuffed surprise. Bake for 38 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the muffin (not the filling). Let the muffins cool slightly in the tin before removing them to a wire rack.
How to Serve Cinnamon Stuffed Apple Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle the tops of your Cinnamon Stuffed Apple Muffins with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of simple vanilla glaze. A pinch of extra cinnamon powder on top creates an inviting look and intensifies that loving warmth that defines the muffins’ flavor.
Side Dishes
These muffins pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, spiced chai tea, or even a frothy hot chocolate, making them perfect for breakfast or afternoon snack time. Serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a wholesome twist that balances indulgence with nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by slicing the muffins in half and layering cream cheese or mascarpone between the halves for a mini muffin sandwich. You can also turn this recipe into a brunch centerpiece by arranging the muffins on a platter with apple slices and cinnamon sticks, creating an irresistible seasonal display everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Cinnamon Stuffed Apple Muffins have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain their moist texture and the integrity of the cinnamon filling so every bite remains wonderfully fresh.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these muffins later, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor or texture. Just thaw at room temperature before serving for a quick, homemade treat anytime.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly-baked warmth, reheat the muffins in a microwave for about 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. The gooey cinnamon center softens beautifully, making them taste like they just came out of the oven again.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts in this recipe?
Absolutely. Almonds or hazelnuts work just as well and bring their unique flavors and textures. Feel free to use whichever nut you prefer or have on hand.
Do I have to use grated fresh apples, or can I use other forms?
Fresh grated apples are ideal because they provide moisture and natural sweetness. However, you could substitute with finely chopped apples, but avoid canned or cooked apples as they may make the batter too soggy.
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly to get the right batter consistency.
How spicy are the Cinnamon Stuffed Apple Muffins Recipe?
The spice level is mild and warming, primarily from cinnamon and a touch of ginger. It’s meant to enhance the sweetness of the apples, not overpower them, making it friendly for all palates.
Can I skip the nuts if I have allergies?
You can, but the filling won’t have the same texture and depth without them. Consider adding a mix of oats or crushed graham crackers for crunch instead if nuts are off-limits.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Cinnamon Stuffed Apple Muffins Recipe that makes it a favorite for good reason. From the tender crumb to the luscious cinnamon filling, every bite feels like a cozy moment captured in food form. So grab your ingredients, dive into this recipe, and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas that will have everyone asking for more.
Print
Cinnamon Stuffed Apple Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these moist and flavorful Cinnamon Stuffed Apple Muffins, packed with a sweet nutty center and tender apple-infused batter. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, these muffins combine warming spices with a satisfying crunch from ground walnuts, creating an irresistible homemade treat.
Ingredients
Nut Filling
- 3/4 cup ground walnuts (or almonds, or hazelnuts)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or half and half or milk)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Muffin Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 12 ounces finely grated apple (about 3–4 small-medium apples)
Instructions
- Prepare the Nut Filling: In a small bowl, combine the ground walnuts, brown sugar, heavy cream, and cinnamon. Mix until the ingredients form a thick, spreadable paste. Set this mixture aside; it will be used to create the cinnamon-stuffed center of the muffins.
- Make the Muffin Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix gently until combined. Fold in the finely grated apples, taking care not to overmix so the batter remains light and airy.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners or grease it well. Spoon a tablespoon of batter into each muffin cup, followed by about a teaspoon of the nut filling, and then cover with another tablespoon of batter to enclose the filling. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow the muffins to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the ground walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts based on preference or availability.
- For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with milk or half and half in the nut filling.
- Grate the apples finely to ensure they blend well into the batter, providing moisture without large chunks.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to maintain tender muffins with a soft crumb.
- Storage: Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer preservation.
