Wholesome Oatmeal Apple Muffins

Introduction

Transform your morning routine with these nutritious Oatmeal Apple Muffins. Made with wholesome ingredients like fresh apples, oats, and almonds, these muffins offer a perfect balance of natural sweetness and hearty texture. They’re naturally sweetened with Stevia and fruits, making them a guilt-free option for health-conscious bakers and families alike.

Ingredients

For 12 muffins:

• 300g (3½ cups) old-fashioned oatmeal flakes
• 2 medium apples (approximately 240g or 2 cups when pureed)
• 100ml (⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon) water
• 80g (¾ cup) dried cranberries
• 80g (⅔ cup) whole almonds
• 1-2 tablespoons Stevia (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil, plus more for greasing

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
2. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with avocado oil or line with paper liners
3. Process oatmeal in a food processor until it reaches a flour-like consistency
4. Roughly chop almonds or pulse briefly in food processor

Step 2: Make Apple Puree

5. Wash, core, and roughly chop apples
6. Place apple pieces in blender
7. Add water and blend until smooth
8. Set aside apple puree

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

9. In a large bowl, combine oat flour, chopped almonds, and cranberries
10. Add Stevia and mix well

Step 4: Combine and Bake

11. Add apple puree, vanilla extract, and eggs to dry ingredients
12. Mix until just combined – don’t overmix
13. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups
14. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean
15. Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack
16. Cover with clean kitchen towel while cooling

Nutritional Information

Per muffin:

• Calories: 195
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 31mg
• Sodium: 15mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 27g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 6g

Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 25 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Tips and Tricks

• Use rolled oats rather than quick oats for better texture
• Don’t overmix the batter to ensure tender muffins
• Test doneness with a toothpick at 20 minutes
• Let muffins cool in tin for 5 minutes before removing
• Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation
• Measure oats before grinding into flour

Variations and Substitutions

• Replace cranberries with raisins or chopped dates
• Swap almonds for walnuts or pecans
• Use coconut oil instead of avocado oil
• Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon for warm spice flavor
• Include ¼ cup ground flaxseed for extra nutrition
• Use honey or maple syrup instead of Stevia (adjust liquid accordingly)

Common FAQs

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

How long do these muffins stay fresh?

They keep well at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.

Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

Why are my muffins dense?

This could be from overmixing or too much liquid in the apple puree. Drain excess liquid if needed.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days
• Refrigerate for up to 1 week
• Freeze for up to 3 months
• Thaw frozen muffins overnight in refrigerator
• Reheat in microwave for 15-20 seconds if desired
• Make oat flour ahead and store in airtight container
• Prepare apple puree day before and refrigerate

These hearty oatmeal apple muffins make a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or nutritious snack. Packed with fiber, protein, and natural sweetness, they’re a wholesome alternative to traditional sugar-laden muffins. Enjoy them warm with your favorite beverage for a comforting start to your day!