These Apple Almond Muffins are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. The combination of tender apples, crunchy almonds, and a light, fluffy batter creates a deliciously sweet muffin that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply enjoying a quiet morning with a cup of coffee, these muffins will make the perfect accompaniment.
Ingredients
- 1 egg
- 75g sugar
- 8g vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 60ml oil
- 125g yogurt (unsweetened preferred for tangier flavor)
- 140g flour
- 7g baking powder
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Almond flakes (for topping)
- Apricot jam (for glazing)
Directions
Prepare the Batter
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease your muffin molds with butter and lightly dust them with flour to prevent the muffins from sticking during baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg, sugar, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt together until well combined. You should have a smooth, slightly frothy mixture.
- Add the oil and yogurt to the egg mixture, stirring to combine. This will create a moist base for the batter.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Add Toppings and Bake
- Spoon the batter into the greased muffin molds, filling each mold about ¾ full.
- Top each muffin with thin slices of apple and drizzle the juice of ½ lemon over the apple slices to prevent browning.
- Sprinkle almond flakes generously over the top of each muffin. The almonds will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to complement the sweetness of the apples.
- Place the muffin tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Glaze
- Once the muffins are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
- For an extra glossy finish and a sweet flavor, brush the tops of the warm muffins with apricot jam. This glaze will not only enhance the appearance of the muffins but also add a touch of sweetness and shine.
- Optionally, dust with a little fine sugar for an added decorative touch before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these Apple Almond Muffins warm with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. They make the perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.
- You can also serve them as part of a brunch spread or pack them into a lunchbox for a delicious treat on the go.
Cooking Tips
- Use unsweetened yogurt: For a tangier flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the apples and sugar, opt for unsweetened yogurt. This will help balance the flavors of the muffins.
- Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Stir just until everything is combined to ensure the muffins are light and fluffy.
- Customize the toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings. You can add cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor, or mix in raisins or walnuts for extra texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: Rich in fiber and vitamin C, apples are a great addition to your diet for digestive health and immune support.
- Yogurt: Provides calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle repair. It also aids in digestion and promotes gut health.
- Almonds: Packed with healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium, almonds help support heart health and maintain healthy skin.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products.
- Contains dairy: The muffins are made with yogurt, which provides a creamy texture and added richness.
- Contains eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients and give the muffins their soft, airy texture.
- Contains gluten: This recipe uses wheat flour, making it unsuitable for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
Nutritional Facts (per muffin)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 75mg
- Potassium: 180mg
- Vitamin A: 2% DV
- Vitamin C: 5% DV
- Calcium: 4% DV
- Iron: 4% DV
Storage Tips
- These Apple Almond Muffins are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- If you want to enjoy them later, you can also freeze them. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes until warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, these muffins come together in no time, making them perfect for busy mornings.
- Versatile: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste. Add more spices, different fruits, or even a crumble topping for added texture.
- Healthy and Delicious: With the natural sweetness of apples and the protein boost from yogurt, these muffins provide a satisfying snack or breakfast that will keep you energized throughout the day.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a brunch, having a tea party, or simply need a snack to brighten your day, these muffins fit any occasion.
FAQs
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these muffins gluten-free by substituting the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking powder is also gluten-free.
Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?
Certainly! You can swap out the apples for other fruits such as pears, peaches, or berries. Just be mindful that the moisture content may vary depending on the fruit, so adjust baking times as needed.
Can I substitute the yogurt?
If you don’t have yogurt on hand, you can substitute it with sour cream or buttermilk for a similar tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt such as almond yogurt.
How do I store these muffins for longer?
For longer storage, freeze the muffins once they’ve cooled. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll last up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or microwave until warm.
Conclusion
These Apple Almond Muffins offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making them an ideal snack or breakfast choice. With their easy preparation and delicious taste, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly baked muffins and the satisfying crunch of almonds with every bite!