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In recent years, healthy baking has taken the culinary world by storm, transforming traditional recipes into nutritious alternatives that cater to a health-conscious audience. With the rise of protein-enriched recipes, home bakers are increasingly seeking ways to incorporate wholesome ingredients into their favorite snacks and meals. One such delightful recipe that exemplifies this trend is the Cinnamon-Swirled Apple Protein Muffins. These muffins not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also pack a nutritional punch, making them an excellent choice for breakfast or as an on-the-go snack.

Apple Cinnamon Protein Muffins

Discover the joy of making Cinnamon-Swirled Apple Protein Muffins, a healthy twist on a classic treat that perfectly combines flavor and nutrition. These moist muffins are packed with protein-rich ingredients like rolled oats, Greek yogurt, and apples for added sweetness and fiber. Ideal for breakfast or as a snack, they're an easy, guilt-free way to fuel your day. Enjoy a simple recipe that not only satisfies your cravings but supports your health goals too!

Ingredients
  

1 cup rolled oats

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

2 medium apples, peeled and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (or your favorite flavor)

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of your choice)

1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or a non-dairy alternative)

2 large eggs

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional)

Pinch of salt

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or lightly greasing it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined and evenly mixed.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), almond milk, Greek yogurt, and eggs. Mix until the mixture is smooth and the ingredients are fully integrated.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir them together until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.

          Fold in Apples and Nuts: Carefully fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts or pecans (if using) to the batter. Ensure that the fruit and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the mixture without overworking the batter.

            Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each cup about 2/3 full to allow space for the muffins to rise.

              Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 18-20 minutes. The muffins are done when they are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

                Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm, or store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days for a delightful snack any time!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Makes 12 muffins