Pin Tender, festive muffins swirled with cinnamon and topped with a crunchy streusel lighter in calories but full of holiday flavor.
This recipe has become a holiday staple in my home; the warm cinnamon aroma always starts our mornings off right.
Ingredients
- Muffin Batter: 1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (50 g) light brown sugar packed, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened applesauce, 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-fat Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup (60 ml) light olive oil or melted coconut oil, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/4 cup (60 ml) low-fat milk
- Cinnamon Swirl: 2 tbsp (30 g) light brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Streusel Topping: 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp (25 g) light brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 2 tbsp (28 g) cold unsalted butter diced
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly coat with nonstick spray.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Step 3:
- In a separate bowl, whisk applesauce, Greek yogurt, oil, eggs, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 5:
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Step 6:
- Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter. Sprinkle each with about 1/2 tsp of the cinnamon swirl then top with the remaining batter. Use a toothpick to gently swirl.
- Step 7:
- For the streusel, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in the cold butter with a fork or fingers until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the muffins.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 20–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 9:
- Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pin These muffins are always a hit at family gatherings bringing everyone together over coffee and conversation.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Preparation Time 15 minutes Cooking Time 22 minutes Total Time 37 minutes
Required Tools
12-cup muffin tin Mixing bowls Whisk Measuring cups and spoons Fork or pastry blender Wire rack
Nutritional Information
Per muffin Calories 165 Total Fat 6 g Carbohydrates 25 g Protein 3 g
Pin Enjoy these moist and flavorful muffins fresh out of the oven or lightly warmed the next day for a delightful holiday treat.
Recipe Questions
- → What makes these muffins lightened?
Using unsweetened applesauce and low-fat Greek yogurt reduces fat content while keeping the texture moist and tender.
- → How is the cinnamon swirl incorporated?
A mixture of brown sugar and ground cinnamon is added halfway through the batter for a warm, spiced surprise in each muffin.
- → What is the streusel topping made of?
The streusel is a crumbly mix of flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter, creating a crunchy contrast to the soft muffins.
- → Can I add extra flavors or ingredients?
Yes, adding chopped dried cranberries or walnuts enhances both texture and festive flair.
- → What baking equipment do I need?
A 12-cup muffin tin, mixing bowls, a whisk, measuring tools, and a wire rack for cooling are required for preparation and baking.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients including dairy, eggs, and no meat-based components.