Apple, Raisin, and Almond Muffins

Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple, Raisin, and Almond Muffins

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease the muffin cups with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats (if using), sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are well distributed before adding the wet ingredients.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, applesauce, vegetable oil, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Make sure the wet ingredients are fully incorporated and smooth.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix just until combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins. The batter should be slightly lumpy.

5. Add the Apples, Raisins, and Almonds

Fold in the grated apple, raisins, and chopped almonds until evenly distributed throughout the batter. The grated apple adds moisture to the muffins, keeping them soft and tender.

6. Spoon the Batter into the Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each one about 2/3 full. You can also sprinkle a few extra chopped almonds on top for a little extra crunch.

7. Bake the Muffins

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean (or with just a few crumbs). The muffins should be golden brown on top.

8. Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely, or enjoy them warm with a smear of butter or jam.

Tips for Making the Best Apple, Raisin, and Almond Muffins

• Use Fresh, Crisp Apples: Fresh apples work best in this recipe. Choose a variety like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for their balance of sweetness and tartness. Be sure to grate them finely so they mix well into the batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing muffin batter can result in dense muffins. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and no dry spots remain.
• Customize the Add-ins: While this recipe calls for raisins and almonds, feel free to switch them up! Try adding dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, or even a handful of chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• Make Them Dairy-Free: To make these muffins dairy-free, swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based alternative (like coconut yogurt) and use vegetable oil or coconut oil instead of butter.
• Make It Vegan: For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water), and use a plant-based yogurt and milk alternative.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of apple, raisin, and almond offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The sweet and slightly tart apple adds natural moisture, while the raisins provide a chewy contrast to the crunchy almonds. The oats and yogurt contribute to a soft, tender crumb, and the touch of cinnamon and nutmeg gives the muffins a warm, comforting flavor—ideal for fall but perfect all year round.

This muffin recipe is versatile, nutritious, and delicious, making it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven or packed in a lunchbox for later, these muffins will quickly become a staple in your baking rotation.

Conclusion: A Wholesome, Delicious Treat

These Apple, Raisin, and Almond Muffins are an excellent choice for anyone craving a wholesome, homemade treat. They’re packed with flavor, texture, and nutrients, making them a perfect option for breakfast, snacks, or even as an afternoon pick-me-up. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this simple recipe delivers a bakery-quality result with minimal effort.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the warm, comforting goodness of these delicious muffins. You won’t regret it!