Apple and Cinnamon Muffins (Vegan)

🍏🧁 Apple and Cinnamon Muffins (Vegan) 🌱

What is it?
Apple and Cinnamon Muffins are delicious, moist, and flavorful baked goods that combine the natural sweetness of apples with the warm, comforting taste of cinnamon. They are vegan, meaning they contain no animal products like eggs or dairy, making them suitable for those following a plant-based diet.

History:
The history of muffins dates back centuries, but the combination of apples and cinnamon in muffins likely gained popularity in the United States, where apples are a staple fruit. Vegan baking has seen a surge in recent years due to increased awareness of plant-based diets and environmental concerns.

Components:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (e.g., canola or coconut oil)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup finely chopped apples (peeled and cored)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or raisins

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the applesauce, almond milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.

4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

5. Gently fold in the chopped apples and any optional add-ins like nuts or raisins.

6. Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

8. Once done, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Total Time:

• Preparation: Approximately 15 minutes
• Baking: 18-20 minutes
• Cooling: Varies, but allow at least 10-15 minutes

These Vegan Apple and Cinnamon Muffins make for a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert. The combination of apples and cinnamon creates a warm and cozy flavor profile that’s sure to please your taste buds. Enjoy! 🍏🧁🌱

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Vegan Apple and Cinnamon Muffins (per standard-sized muffin, assuming a recipe makes 12 muffins):

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: Approximately 170-190 calories
• Total Fat: About 6-7 grams
• Saturated Fat: About 1 gram
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: Around 180-200 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 27-30 grams
• Dietary Fiber: Roughly 1-2 grams
• Sugars: About 12-15 grams
• Protein: Around 2-3 grams

Health Information:

• Low in Saturated Fat: These muffins are vegan and contain minimal saturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health.

• No Cholesterol: Since they’re plant-based, these muffins are naturally cholesterol-free.

• Moderate Calories: With around 170-190 calories per muffin, they can fit into a balanced diet, especially when consumed in moderation.

• Source of Fiber: While not extremely high in fiber, they do provide some dietary fiber, aiding digestion.

• Natural Sugars: The sugar content primarily comes from natural sources like applesauce and chopped apples, making it a healthier alternative to refined sugars.

• Vitamins and Minerals: Apples in the recipe provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

• Vegan-Friendly: Being vegan, these muffins avoid animal products and are suitable for individuals following a vegan or plant-based diet.

Keep in mind that specific nutrition facts may vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes. These muffins can be a relatively healthier dessert or snack option when compared to traditional baked goods containing eggs and dairy. However, like all treats, it’s essential to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.