Apple Spice Muffin Recipe (Freshly Milled Flour And All Purpose Flour)

When fall arrives, the scents of spices and sweet apples fill the air, enticing everyone to bake. There's something comforting about freshly baked muffins that warms your home and soul. Today, we're excited to share a tasty apple spice muffin recipe that can be made with either freshly milled flour or all-purpose flour. This flexibility allows you to choose what works best for you.

Whether you're an experienced baker or a beginner, these muffins are simple to make and perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. Let's jump right in!

Why Use Freshly Milled Flour?

Baking with freshly milled flour can elevate your baked goods. This flour is made from whole grains ground just before use, retaining essential nutrients and flavors. Recent research shows that freshly milled flour can contain up to 50% more vitamins and minerals than all-purpose flour. This flour offers a slightly sweeter taste and a distinct texture that can make your muffins truly special.

All-purpose flour, on the other hand, is a time-tested pantry staple. It delivers consistent results for a variety of recipes, making it a preferred choice for many. Both types of flour can create delightful apple spice muffins; it simply depends on your personal preference and what you have on hand.

Ingredients

For Freshly Milled Flour Apple Spice Muffins:

• 1 ½ cups freshly milled whole wheat flour

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup diced apples (preferably peeled)

  
  

For All-Purpose Flour Apple Spice Muffins:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup diced apples (preferably peeled)

  
  

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Either line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups to prevent the muffins from sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your flour of choice (freshly milled or all-purpose), brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. It’s crucial to mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure a well-flavored muffin.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the applesauce, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk until all the ingredients are combined smoothly.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the muffins’ texture. Finally, gently fold in the diced apples for added sweetness and juicy bites.

Step 5: Bake

Spoon the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Freshly baked apple spice muffins cooling on a rack.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Success

• Selecting the Apples: Choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji for optimal flavor and moisture. Research indicates that Honeycrisp apples are 20% sweeter than many other types.

  
  

• Storage: Keep any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for about three days. For longer storage, freeze them; just wrap them well to maintain freshness.

  
  

• Variations: Personalize your muffins! Consider adding ½ cup of walnuts or pecans, or tossing in ½ cup of raisins for extra texture and flavor.

  
  

The Joy of Baking

Baking is more than just preparing food; it is a way to connect with family and create lasting memories. Involve your children or friends in the process. Let them mix the batter or sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking. This not only makes it fun but also nurtures a love for cooking from an early age.

Muffin tin filled with delicious apple spice muffins ready to be enjoyed.

Happy Baking!

These apple spice muffins, whether made with freshly milled flour or all-purpose flour, are a delightful treat that warms the heart. They are a perfect embodiment of home cooking, serving comfort with every bite.

Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and embrace the joy of making these muffins. They’ll disappear quickly, so have your favorite beverage ready to enjoy alongside them!

Delicious apple spice muffins served on a plate garnished with cinnamon.