π§ππ° Apple Walnut Muffins π§ππ°
Apple Walnut Muffins are a delightful and healthier treat that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples with the nutty goodness of walnuts. These muffins are not only delicious but also low in fat, making them a guilt-free indulgence for those looking for a wholesome snack or breakfast option. Let’s dive into the details:
π History:
The exact origin of Apple Walnut Muffins is not well-documented, but muffins, in general, have a long history dating back to the 18th century. Muffins were originally of British origin and were typically made from a simple batter of flour, eggs, milk, and butter. The addition of apples and walnuts to muffins likely evolved as people sought to incorporate more flavors and textures into this beloved baked good.
π§ Components:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup of low-fat yogurt
- 1/4 cup of low-fat milk
- 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups of finely chopped apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts
π©βπ³ Preparation Steps:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix them together well.
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Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, and then add the applesauce, yogurt, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Fold in Apples and Walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts into the batter.
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Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling them about 2/3 full.
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Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
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Cool: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
π Time Needed:
- Preparation: Approximately 15-20 minutes
- Baking: 18-20 minutes
- Cooling: Varies, but usually around 15-20 minutes
In total, you can expect to spend around 45-60 minutes to prepare and bake these delicious Apple Walnut Muffins. Enjoy them as a nutritious snack or a tasty breakfast option! ππ°π§
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apple Walnut Muffins:
Nutrition Facts (Per Muffin, Approximate):
- Calories: 200-250 kcal
- Total Fat: 7-9g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Cholesterol: 25-30mg
- Sodium: 150-200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugars: 12-15g
- Protein: 3-4g
Health Information:
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Low in Fat: These muffins are considered low in fat, which can be a healthier option compared to traditional high-fat baked goods.
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Good Source of Fiber: The inclusion of apples and walnuts adds dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and can help keep you feeling full.
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Moderate Sugar Content: While they do contain some sugar, it’s not excessively high. You can reduce sugar by using alternatives like natural sweeteners or reducing the sugar content in the recipe.
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Nutrient-Rich: Apples are a good source of vitamins and dietary fiber. Walnuts provide healthy fats, protein, and additional nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.
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Portion Control: Like with any treat, moderation is key. Enjoying one muffin as part of a balanced diet can be a reasonable choice.
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Customizable: You can make these muffins even healthier by using whole wheat flour, reducing sugar, or using low-fat alternatives for some ingredients.
Remember that the exact nutritional content may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. These muffins can be a tasty treat when enjoyed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.