Applesauce Muffins Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings.

Crumb Topping:

• 2 tablespoons cold butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts

Muffins:

• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup no-sugar-added applesauce
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Prepare a 6-cup jumbo muffin pan by lining it with paper liners or greasing it with butter.
2. For the crumb topping: In a small bowl, combine the cold butter, flour, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts. Use a fork to mix until the mixture forms small crumbles. Set aside.
3. For the muffins: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter. Add the brown sugar, applesauce, and vanilla extract, and whisk until well blended. Set aside.
4. In another bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding carefully until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with the batter, then sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the top of each muffin.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
7. Remove the muffins from the pan and allow them to cool on a rack before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	383	-
Total Fat	11g	14%
Saturated Fat	6g	28%
Cholesterol	52mg	17%
Sodium	428mg	19%
Total Carbohydrate	65g	24%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Total Sugars	27g	-
Protein	7g	14%
Vitamin C	1mg	1%
Calcium	153mg	12%
Iron	3mg	16%
Potassium	166mg	4%

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information may not be available for all ingredients.

The Story Behind Applesauce Muffins

Applesauce muffins have a rich history rooted in American home baking traditions. Their origin can be traced back to the early 20th century, when home cooks sought ways to use up leftover apples and avoid waste. By incorporating applesauce into batter, bakers could create moist, tender muffins without needing excessive fat, making them both economical and wholesome. Over time, these muffins became a staple for breakfast tables and school lunches, especially in autumn when apples were abundant.

Regional Characteristics

While applesauce muffins are enjoyed nationwide, they have subtle regional variations. In New England, they often include warm spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, reflecting the area's affinity for spiced baked goods. In the Midwest, nuts such as walnuts or pecans are commonly added to the topping for extra texture. Southern versions may incorporate a touch of molasses or brown sugar to enhance sweetness, creating a deeper, richer flavor profile.

How They Differ From Similar Baked Goods

Although applesauce muffins might seem similar to classic apple muffins, they are distinct in texture and moisture. The use of applesauce, rather than chunks of apple or oil, results in a denser, more uniformly moist crumb. Unlike cupcakes, they are less sweet and not overly rich, making them suitable for breakfast or a light snack. The crumb topping, often featuring nuts and brown sugar, adds a signature crunch that separates them from other quick breads or muffins.

Where They Are Commonly Served

Applesauce muffins are versatile and appear in many settings. They are commonly served at breakfast buffets, coffee shops, and family brunches. In schools, they are favored as a nutritious snack for children due to their mild sweetness and wholesome ingredients. Additionally, they are popular during fall festivals and farmers markets, often paired with hot apple cider or tea for a comforting seasonal treat.

Interesting Facts

• Applesauce muffins are a clever way to reduce fat in baking, as applesauce replaces a portion of butter or oil.
• The addition of warm spices like cloves and nutmeg gives a nostalgic flavor reminiscent of classic apple pies.
• These muffins can be made with no added sugar, making them a healthier alternative to many commercially baked goods.
• Historically, leftover applesauce from winter preservation was commonly used to bake muffins, showcasing an early example of sustainable cooking practices.
• Some bakers add a streusel topping or drizzle of glaze to elevate the texture and flavor, blending sweet, crunchy, and tender elements in a single bite.

FAQ about Applesauce Muffins Recipe

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