Start your day with Apple Cinnamon Protein Muffins, a wholesome and satisfying breakfast option. These muffins are packed with natural sweetness from fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and protein powder to keep you energized throughout the morning.

Whether you need a quick breakfast, post-workout snack, or meal prep option, these muffins are easy to make and naturally moist. With a soft crumb and subtle apple-cinnamon flavor, they’re a healthy treat the whole family will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love These Apple Cinnamon Protein Muffins

Packed with protein to fuel your day
Soft, moist texture with natural sweetness from apples
Quick and easy to prepare
Perfect for meal prep or on-the-go breakfasts
Gluten-free or whole wheat options available

Ingredients

1 ½ cups rolled oats (or oat flour)
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 scoop vanilla protein powder (about 30g)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced
2 large eggs
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare pan.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease lightly.
Mix dry ingredients.
In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
Prepare wet ingredients.
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, Greek yogurt, honey, applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine wet and dry ingredients.
Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined. Gently stir in diced apple and optional nuts. Do not overmix.
Fill muffin cups.
Divide batter evenly among 12 muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
Bake.
Bake 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Apple Cinnamon Protein Muffins

Moist texture: Use unsweetened applesauce or yogurt to keep muffins soft.
Flavor boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
Even baking: Avoid overfilling muffin cups to prevent uneven baking.
Protein powder substitution: Vanilla or unflavored protein powders work best.

Variations

Vegan version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based yogurt.
Add-ins: Mix in dark chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut.
Gluten-free option: Use 2 cups oat flour instead of rolled oats + whole wheat flour.
Extra sweetness: Top muffins with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or nut butter
Pair with coffee, tea, or a protein shake for a complete breakfast
Pack for on-the-go breakfasts or snacks

Storage & Reheating

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
Refrigerate for up to 1 week
Freeze individually in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months
Reheat in microwave for 15–20 seconds for a warm, soft muffin

Nutritional Benefits

High in protein for sustained energy
Fiber-rich from oats and apples
Healthy fats from optional nuts
Naturally sweetened without refined sugar

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these muffins ahead?

Yes, they are perfect for meal prep. Store in the fridge or freezer and reheat before eating.

Can I use other fruits?

Yes, diced pears, blueberries, or grated zucchini work well.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Replace Greek yogurt with almond or soy yogurt and use plant-based milk if needed.

Can I reduce sugar?

Yes, reduce honey to 2 tablespoons or use a sugar substitute.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cinnamon Protein Muffins are a healthy, protein-packed breakfast or snack that combines the natural sweetness of apples with warm cinnamon and the benefits of protein. Soft, fluffy, and versatile, these muffins are a must-try for anyone looking to fuel their day deliciously.