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 Greek yogurt; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup peeled and diced apples; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Recipes

I absolutely love starting my day with a warm, fragrant muffin, and these Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins have become a staple in my kitchen. The moisture from the yogurt keeps them fluffy and tender while the combination of cinnamon and fresh apples fills the house with a delightful aroma. Whether I’m enjoying them with my morning coffee or packing them as a snack, these muffins always hit the spot. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends.

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:49:35.400Z

When I first started making these muffins, I experimented with various toppings and add-ins. After several trials, I found that using Greek yogurt not only imparts a lovely tang but also makes the muffins incredibly moist. Adding diced apples brings a natural sweetness and fresh flavor that complements the warm spices beautifully. The key is to not overmix the batter; gentle folding is what creates those lovely muffin domes!

I also love serving them slightly warm, with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top. Each bite is a cozy hug on a plate, and they never last long in my house. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat, I can promise these muffins will become a favorite of yours too!

Why You'll Love These Muffins
Moist and fluffy texture from yogurt and fresh apples
Warm cinnamon flavor that feels like a hug
Quick to prepare and great for meal prep

Why Yogurt Matters

The use of Greek yogurt in these muffins is key to achieving that moist and fluffy texture that makes each bite a delight. Yogurt not only adds moisture but also contributes to a tender crumb because of its acidity, which helps tenderize the flour. If you're running low on yogurt, you can substitute with an equal amount of applesauce for a dairy-free alternative that still offers moisture.

In addition to its texture-enhancing properties, Greek yogurt adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the apples and sugar. This unique flavor profile elevates the overall taste, making it an extraordinary treat. According to your taste preference, you could experiment with flavored yogurts, such as vanilla or honey, but ensure they complement the cinnamon and apples.

Perfect Apples for Baking

Choosing the right type of apple is crucial to the success of your muffins. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji provide a delightful sweetness and retain their structure well when baked. If you prefer a slightly tart muffin, Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice. Aim for about one cup of finely diced apples to ensure even distribution, as larger chunks can lead to uneven texture and baking inconsistencies.

It's also helpful to toss the diced apples in a sprinkle of cinnamon before folding them into the muffin batter. This not only enhances the overall flavor but also ensures that each piece becomes inflected with that warm spice during baking. Be cautious not to overmix the batter once you've added the apples, as this can develop gluten in the flour and result in denser muffins.

Ingredients

For the Muffins

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 large egg
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup peeled and diced apples
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until just combined.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin pan with paper liners.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, egg, sugar, and oil until smooth.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.

Fill Muffin Liners

Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin pan, filling each liner 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

Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these muffins warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking.

Storage Tips

To keep your Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a particularly humid climate, consider refrigerating them to prolong their shelf life. Alternatively, you can freeze these muffins for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen muffin, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a warm treat, you can reheat it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. I love poping mine directly into the oven for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to revive that fresh-baked texture.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to get creative with add-ins that suit your preferences. A half-cup of chopped walnuts or pecans adds a nice crunch to the muffins, or you can sprinkle the top with oats for extra texture. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries also complement the flavors beautifully—just be cautious with the sugar levels if adding sweet ingredients.

These muffins serve as a perfect breakfast on their own but can also be paired wonderfully with a smear of cream cheese or a dollop of yogurt for an added creamy texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup on top before serving for extra sweetness. They also make for a wholesome snack to take along on day trips or school lunches.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of yogurt?

Yes, you can substitute with any plain yogurt, though Greek yogurt will yield the best texture.

→ How should I store these muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

→ Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely! Pears or berries work well as alternatives to apples.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) as a substitute.