Name: Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup oil (canola or vegetable); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup applesauce; 1 tablespoon oats

Jump to Recipe

There is something truly comforting about biting into a warm, tender muffin that perfectly balances wholesome oats with the natural sweetness of applesauce. These Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins are a delightful treat that bring together heartiness and flavor in every bite. The oats lend a satisfying texture while the applesauce keeps them irresistibly moist without needing extra butter or sugar. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a quick grab-and-go option, these muffins never fail to impress with their simple ingredients and incredible taste.

Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of common pantry staples, you’re all set to bake a batch of these scrumptious muffins. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the oats adding wholesome chew, to the applesauce delivering moisture and natural sweetness, and spices like cinnamon bringing warmth and aroma.

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base structure for light muffins.
1 cup oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking): Adds texture and a nutty flavor, while boosting nutrition.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the tartness of applesauce.
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Essential leavening to give your muffins that tender rise.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses cozy spice notes that complement the apples perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps with rising and browning for a golden top.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
1 egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to muffin fluffiness.
1/2 cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and ensures a tender crumb.
1/4 cup oil (canola or vegetable): Adds richness and moisture without heaviness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness.
1 cup applesauce: The star ingredient that makes these muffins delightfully moist and naturally sweet.
1 tablespoon oats (optional, for topping): Creates a charming rustic look and a slight crunch.

How to Make Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin

Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it can be perfectly hot when your batter is ready. Grease your muffin tin generously with nonstick spray or pop in some paper liners to make cleanup a breeze and help the muffins release easily after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures the rising agents and spice are evenly spread throughout your batter, which is key for a consistent texture and flavor in every muffin.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together the egg, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform. These wet ingredients provide moisture and richness, which balance beautifully with the drier oat and flour components.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with your dry mix, then add the applesauce. Stir gently until just combined — be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins tough. A few lumps here and there are totally fine and actually help keep the muffins light and fluffy.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tins

Using a scoop or spoon, fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with batter. For that extra special touch and a little crunch, sprinkle a spoonful of oats over the top of each muffin before baking.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Pop your tray into the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes until the muffins look golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them rest in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely—or enjoy one warm right away for pure comfort.

How to Serve Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins

Garnishes

These muffins are lovely on their own, but you can dress them up with a light spread of butter, a drizzle of honey, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for some creaminess. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or cinnamon sugar on top adds a beautiful finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Serve your Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins alongside fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples for a bright, healthy contrast. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect snack for any time of day.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the muffins in half and using them as the base for a mini breakfast sandwich with cream cheese and a slice of smoked turkey or apple. Another fun idea is to crumble them over yogurt or ice cream as a wholesome crumble topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They stay moist without drying out due to the applesauce, making them just as tasty the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, these muffins freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months, ready to thaw whenever you need a quick homemade treat.

Reheating

To enjoy your muffins warm, reheat frozen or refrigerated muffins in a microwave for about 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked experience with a soft, moist crumb every time.

FAQs

Can I use different types of flour?

Absolutely! While all-purpose flour is what’s recommended for the best texture, swapping half for whole wheat flour adds extra fiber and a nuttier flavor. Just keep an eye out, as whole wheat can make the muffins denser.

Is it okay to use flavored applesauce?

For the best results and to keep the flavor balanced, stick to plain, unsweetened applesauce. Flavored versions with spices like cinnamon can work but may alter the taste of your muffins slightly.

Can these muffins be made vegan?

Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax or chia egg, and swap milk for a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk. Use vegetable oil as specified, and you’ll have delicious vegan Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins.

What type of oats works best?

Both old-fashioned and quick-cooking oats work well in this recipe. Old-fashioned oats provide a bit more texture, while quick oats blend in smoothly. Feel free to choose based on your texture preference.

Why is applesauce used instead of fresh apples?

Applesauce adds moisture directly to the batter, ensuring the muffins stay tender and soft. Fresh apples add chunks but don’t hydrate the flour as well, so muffins made solely with fresh apples can be a little drier.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a delicious, wholesome muffin recipe that is easy to make and gives you that perfect blend of moistness and texture, these Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins are a must-try. They’re ideal for mornings when you want something nourishing yet quick, or for satisfying mid-day cravings with a little homemade goodness. I can’t wait for you to bake a batch and fall in love with every bite, just like I did!

Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 13 reviews

Author: Marina
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 muffins 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins are a wholesome and delicious treat, perfect for breakfast or a snack. Made with a blend of oats, applesauce, and warm spices, they offer a soft, fluffy texture without the need for refined fats. Easy to prepare, these muffins feature natural sweetness from applesauce and a comforting hint of cinnamon, making them a nutritious and tasty option for all ages.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your muffin tins by spraying with nonstick cooking spray or lining with paper muffin liners to prevent sticking.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, oats, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly combined. This ensures the leavening and spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This liquid base will moisten the dry ingredients and add flavor.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Add the applesauce as well. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Do not over-mix; some lumps are okay and will help keep the muffins tender and fluffy.
Fill the Muffin Tins: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. For an attractive finish, sprinkle a small amount of oats on top of each muffin if desired.
Bake and Cool: Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let them cool in the pan for 3-5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely or enjoy warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins tender and moist.
Using applesauce reduces the need for additional fat and adds natural sweetness.
Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier texture; quick-cooking oats will yield a softer muffin.
Oil can be substituted with melted butter for richer flavor if desired.
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American