Go Back
As the crisp air of autumn settles in, we find ourselves surrounded by the vibrant colors and flavors of the season. One delightful way to embrace this change is through baking, and what better recipe to bring warmth and joy into your kitchen than Cran-Apple Delight Muffins? This scrumptious treat perfectly marries the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples, creating a comforting muffin that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Apple Cranberry Muffins for Lunchboxes

Embrace the flavors of fall with Cran-Apple Delight Muffins! This cozy recipe combines tart cranberries and sweet apples, resulting in a scrumptious treat perfect for chilly afternoons. With wholesome ingredients like oats, spices, and nuts, these muffins not only taste great but are also packed with nutrients. Baking fills your home with delightful aromas and offers a wonderful way to create cherished memories with family and friends. Enjoy the warmth of homemade goodness!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup rolled oats

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

½ tsp ground cinnamon

¼ cup brown sugar, packed

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

½ cup vegetable oil

1 tsp vanilla extract

Zest of 1 lemon

1 cup fresh cranberries (or ¾ cup dried cranberries if fresh are unavailable)

½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners, or lightly grease each cup with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

    Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Add the packed brown sugar and granulated sugar to the bowl. Whisk all the dry ingredients together until they are thoroughly mixed and free of lumps.

      Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the large egg, unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix until the wet ingredients are well combined and smooth.

        Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Gently fold the two mixtures together using a spatula. Mix just until you see no dry flour; be cautious not to overmix as this could result in dense muffins.

          Add the Freshness: Carefully fold in the cranberries and chopped nuts (if using) until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

            Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. This will allow the muffins to rise without overflowing.

              Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the tops are a lovely golden brown.

                Cool the Muffins: Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for around 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                  Storage: Once cooled, store the muffins in airtight containers or lunchboxes to keep them fresh. They make for delightful snacks throughout the week.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 12 muffins

                      - Presentation Tips: For an extra touch, dust the tops of the muffins with powdered sugar before serving, and garnish with a few fresh cranberries on the side. Enjoy your deliciously moist Cran-Apple Delight Muffins!