If you’re looking for a cozy and wholesome treat that fits perfectly into your Whole30 lifestyle, this Easy Whole30 Cinnamon Apple Muffins Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Bursting with warm cinnamon spice and fresh apple bites, these muffins are soft, tender, and naturally sweetened using fruit without any added sugars. They strike the perfect balance between nourishing and indulgent, making them a fantastic breakfast option or a snack that feels like a hug in muffin form. Plus, with simple, clean ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a batch ready before you know it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is thoughtfully chosen for its flavor and Whole30-approved qualities. Together, they create muffins that are moist, lightly spiced, and satisfying without any artificial additives.
- 2 cups cassava flour: A gluten-free flour that provides a light, tender crumb with a mild, slightly nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the muffins rise perfectly, giving them a delightful texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and depth to every bite.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle hint of cozy spice, enhancing the cinnamon’s effect.
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 3 large eggs at room temperature: Bind the batter and add richness and moisture.
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (no added sugar): Naturally sweetens and keeps muffins moist without extra sugar.
- ½ cup finely diced apple (peeled if desired): Brings fresh bursts of juicy sweetness and texture.
- â…“ cup melted coconut oil (cooled slightly): Adds tender moisture and a gentle tropical note.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a subtle sweetness and aroma.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the batter and balances the sweetness with a touch of natural acidity.
How to Make Easy Whole30 Cinnamon Apple Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with parchment liners or grease it well to ensure your muffins don’t stick and come out smoothly after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cassava flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and fine sea salt until they are evenly combined. This dry mix is the foundation of your muffin batter’s spice and structure.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and fresh lemon juice until completely smooth. These wet ingredients bring moisture, flavor, and natural sweetness to the muffins.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir just until a thick batter forms, being careful not to overmix to keep the muffins tender.
Step 5: Fold in the Diced Apples
Now, fold in your finely diced apples evenly throughout the batter. These little fruit pieces add bursts of juiciness that make every bite exciting and fresh.
Step 6: Bake Your Muffins
Divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the tops feel set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This baking time yields perfect texture—soft inside with just a slight golden top.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps the muffins finish setting and prevents them from crumbling.
How to Serve Easy Whole30 Cinnamon Apple Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
These muffins are delightful on their own, but adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top or a thin slice of fresh apple can make them look and taste even more inviting. If you want to keep it Whole30-friendly, a small spread of compliant nut butter can add creaminess without overpowering the flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair your muffins with a side of fresh fruit salad or a handful of nuts for a balanced breakfast or snack. A hot cup of herbal tea or black coffee complements the warm, spiced notes perfectly, making your munching moment cozy and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, try serving these muffins warm topped with a dollop of coconut cream or drizzled with a homemade date syrup glaze that fits within Whole30 guidelines. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board with whole apples and cinnamon sticks for a charming display that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover muffins fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Chilling helps retain moisture and flavor while ensuring they stay safe to eat.
Freezing
To enjoy these muffins longer, freeze them individually wrapped or in a freezer-safe container. They freeze beautifully and can be stored for several months, making them perfect for meal prep or quick breakfasts later on.
Reheating
When you’re ready to eat a frozen or refrigerated muffin, simply warm it in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, or microwave it for 20-30 seconds until heated through. This revives their softness and comforting aroma, just like fresh-baked.
FAQs
Can I substitute cassava flour with almond flour?
While almond flour is delicious, it behaves differently in baking. Cassava flour gives these muffins their signature texture and rise, so a direct substitution may result in a denser muffin. For best results, stick with cassava flour for this recipe.
Are these muffins completely sugar-free?
Yes! These muffins are sweetened naturally with applesauce and fresh apple pieces, so no added sugars are needed. They are perfect for anyone following Whole30 or seeking a wholesome breakfast option.
Can I add nuts or seeds to this recipe?
Absolutely. Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds can add a lovely crunch and extra nutrition. Just fold them in with the diced apples before baking.
How can I make these muffins dairy-free?
This recipe is already dairy-free thanks to the use of coconut oil and no milk-based ingredients. It’s an ideal option if you’re avoiding dairy while sticking to Whole30.
What’s the best way to dice the apples?
Finely dice your apples into small, even pieces about ¼-inch in size. This ensures they distribute evenly throughout the muffin and cook properly without making the batter too wet.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Whole30 Cinnamon Apple Muffins Recipe is a wonderful way to bring wholesome, flavorful baking into your routine with minimal fuss. The blend of warming spices, juicy apples, and tender crumb make each bite a comforting reminder that healthy treats can be delicious and satisfying. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for these muffins again and again whether it’s breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy treat to share with friends and family.
Print
Easy Whole30 Cinnamon Apple Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Whole30
Description
These Easy Whole30 Cinnamon Apple Muffins are a delicious and healthy breakfast option, made with cassava flour and naturally sweetened with fruit. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, these moist muffins feature diced apples and a hint of vanilla, providing a wholesome and satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups cassava flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce, no added sugar
- 1/2 cup finely diced apple, peeled if desired
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil, cooled slightly
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare muffin pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with parchment liners or grease it well to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cassava flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and fine sea salt until evenly combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and fresh lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredient bowl. Stir gently until a thick batter forms, being careful not to overmix to maintain tenderness.
- Fold in diced apple: Evenly fold the finely diced apple pieces into the batter, distributing them throughout.
- Fill muffin cups: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Bake the muffins: Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the muffin tops are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the muffins: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set and prevents sogginess.
Notes
- For extra apple flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples.
- These muffins are naturally sweetened only with fruit.
- Store muffins in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for longer storage.
