Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins

Name: Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup diced apples (peeled and cored)

Highlighted under: Home Baking Collection

I absolutely love making these Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins! The joyful combination of warm cinnamon and fresh apples creates a comforting aroma in my kitchen. I enjoy how the yogurt not only adds a delightful tang but also keeps the muffins moist and fluffy. It's an easy recipe to whip up on a weekend morning, and the results are always delicious. These muffins are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, and they disappear quickly. Trust me, once you try them, you'll want to make them again and again!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:30:36.895Z

When I first experimented with adding yogurt to muffin batters, I was amazed at how much moisture it brought, without being heavy. These Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins quickly became a favorite at my house. I like to use Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which complements the sweetness of the cinnamon beautifully.

Each muffin is packed with flavor, and the burst of apple adds a fresh texture. I’ve found that letting the batter sit for a few minutes before baking gives the muffins a little extra lift, resulting in a fluffy treat that’s perfect for any time of the day.

        Why You'll Love These Muffins
        Deliciously moist thanks to the yogurt
Warm spices and flavorful apples create a perfect balance
Quick and easy to make, ideal for breakfast or snacks

      

The Secret to Moist Muffins

One key ingredient that sets these Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins apart is the yogurt. It not only contributes a pleasant tang but also helps to keep the muffins tender and moist. Yogurt performs well in baked goods by providing fat and moisture, which prevents the muffins from becoming dry. If you ever find yourself out of plain yogurt, you can substitute it with a similar quantity of sour cream or buttermilk, keeping the texture beautifully rich.

Another factor contributing to the moisture content is the diced apples. When incorporated into the muffin batter, they release their natural juices as they bake, adding to the overall softness. Make sure to use fresh, firm apples for the best results—Granny Smith or Honeycrisp varieties work wonderfully. Avoid overly ripe apples, as they may break down too much and jeopardize the structure of your muffins.

Perfecting Your Technique

When mixing your batter, remember that over-mixing can lead to tough muffins. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined; you want to see a few lumps in the batter. This method preserves the light and airy texture that everyone loves in muffins. Additionally, letting the batter rest for about 10 minutes before scooping can enhance the final texture and allow the flour to fully hydrate.

For the best rise, ensure that your baking powder is fresh. Old or expired baking powder can lead to dense muffins that don't rise as expected. A simple test involves adding a teaspoon of baking powder to warm water; if it bubbles vigorously, it’s good to go. If you want to make your muffins even fluffier, consider adding an extra egg white to bolster the leavening action.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Muffin Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup diced apples (peeled and cored)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you begin.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your muffins:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk them together until well mixed.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the yogurt, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.

Fill Muffin Liners

Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins into the batter. These can enhance the texture and add a delightful crunch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, freeze them in freezer-safe bags for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat that tastes fresh out of the oven.

To make your baking process even smoother, consider prepping the muffin batter a day in advance. Keep the wet and dry ingredients separate in the refrigerator overnight, and combine just before baking. This quick tip is perfect for busy mornings when you want delicious muffins without the hassle of starting from scratch.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These muffins are delightful as-is, but you can elevate them further by adding a streusel topping. Combine melted butter, flour, sugar, and oatmeal, and sprinkle it over the batter before baking. This adds a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and apples.

For an extra flavor twist, you might include chopped nuts or dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins into the batter. They not only enhance the taste but also provide additional texture. If you're aiming for a lower sugar option, you can reduce the sugar by half without sacrificing taste, especially if the apples are naturally sweet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the yogurt with something else?

Yes, if you're out of yogurt, you can use applesauce or sour cream as a substitute, but it may change the flavor slightly.

→ How should I store leftover muffins?

Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Absolutely! You can replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ What types of apples work best for this recipe?

I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they provide great flavor and texture.