Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

Filled with diced apples and warm fall spices, these easy-to-make Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins are perfect for kids’ school snacks or a delightful treat at home. Their moist texture and sweet apple flavor make them irresistible, while the gluten-free and vegan ingredients ensure everyone can enjoy them. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a quick snack, these muffins fit the bill!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have delicious muffins ready in no time.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fruit and free from animal products, they are nutritious and tasty.
• Versatile Snacking: Enjoy them as a breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or even a dessert.
• Kid-Friendly: These muffins are a hit with children, making them great for lunchboxes or after-school treats.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini muffin pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini muffin pan: Perfectly sized to create bite-sized muffins that are easy to handle.
• Mixing bowls: Allow you to combine ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Whisk: Ensures that dry ingredients are evenly mixed for consistent flavor in every bite.

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Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to whip up your own batch of Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins:

Wet Ingredients

• ¼ cup (60ml) melted coconut oil
• ½ cup (120ml) unsweetened dairy-free milk
• ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon (78g) unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (210g) gluten free flour blend (see important note about flour below)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon (63g) organic cane sugar or granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom

Apples

• ¾ cup (85g) diced apples (about 1 small apple; see note about apples below)

Topping Ingredients

• 2 ½ tablespoons melted coconut oil
• ¼ cup (50g) organic cane sugar or fine granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F (177° C). This step is crucial for achieving perfectly baked muffins.

Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Pan

Grease your mini muffin pan with cooking spray or a little coconut oil if needed. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the muffins.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Melted coconut oil
2. Unsweetened dairy-free milk
3. Unsweetened applesauce
4. Vanilla extract

Set this mixture aside once combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. Gluten free flour blend
2. Baking powder
3. Salt
4. Sugar
5. Ground cinnamon
6. Ground nutmeg
7. Ground ginger
8. Ground cardamom

This ensures all dry ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir well until everything is combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Diced Apples

Gently fold in the diced apples into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups

Divide the batter evenly among the 24 muffin cups in your prepared pan.

Step 8: Bake Muffins

Bake in your preheated oven for about 9-11 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center of a muffin.

Step 9: Cool the Muffins

Remove muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 10: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping

While cooling, mix together melted coconut oil in one bowl and combine sugar with cinnamon in another bowl.

Step 11: Coat Muffins

Once cooled, dip each muffin top into melted coconut oil followed by coating it in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Step 12: Final Touches

Place coated muffins back on the cooling rack and allow them to set before serving.

Enjoy these delightful Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins at any occasion!

How to Serve Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

Mini gluten free vegan apple muffins are delightful on their own, but you can enhance the experience with various serving suggestions. Whether for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these muffins can be paired with a variety of accompaniments.

With a Warm Beverage

• Herbal Tea: Enjoy the muffins alongside a cup of soothing herbal tea for a cozy snack.
• Coffee: Pairing your muffins with a rich cup of coffee creates a perfect morning treat.

Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas: Fresh banana slices add a creamy texture that complements the muffins.
• Berries: A handful of blueberries or strawberries can brighten up the plate and add freshness.

Nut Butters

• Almond Butter: Spread almond butter on top for added protein and flavor.
• Peanut Butter: A classic choice that adds richness and pairs well with apple flavors.

Sweet Dips

• Maple Syrup: Drizzling maple syrup adds an extra touch of sweetness that’s hard to resist.
• Coconut Yogurt: For a creamier option, serve with dairy-free coconut yogurt for dipping.

How to Perfect Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

Creating the perfect mini gluten free vegan apple muffins can take practice. Here are some tips to achieve muffin perfection every time.

• Use Fresh Apples: Choose firm, fresh apples for the best texture and flavor in your muffins.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mixing the batter prevents tough muffins; combine just until wet and dry ingredients meet.
• Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is correctly calibrated to avoid undercooked or overcooked muffins.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste; more cinnamon can enhance that warm flavor.
• Cool Properly: Allowing muffins to cool completely helps maintain their texture and flavor.
• Store Correctly: To keep them fresh longer, store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for later enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

To complement your mini gluten free vegan apple muffins, consider serving them with these delicious side dishes. Each option enhances the overall meal experience.

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives provides a crunchy contrast.
2. Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, quinoa salad adds protein and fiber to your snack time.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and savory flavors that balance the sweetness of the muffins.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding is nutritious and pairs well for breakfast or dessert.
5. Fruit Smoothie: A blend of berries and bananas creates a fruity beverage that complements the muffin flavors.
6. Hummus and Veggies: Crisp vegetables dipped in hummus provide a healthy crunch alongside sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mini gluten free vegan apple muffins can be a breeze, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Flour Blend: Not using a gluten free flour blend can change the texture of your muffins. Always use a blend designed for baking to ensure the best results.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Mix until just combined for light and fluffy results.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Each oven is different. Start checking your muffins at 9 minutes to avoid overbaking them.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Using incorrect measurements can affect the outcome. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy when possible.
• Choosing Incorrect Apples: Some apples are too soft or lack flavor. Opt for crisp, firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

• Place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and heat muffins for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 15-20 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering the pan, and warm for about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about mini gluten free vegan apple muffins.

What makes these muffins gluten free?

These muffins use a specially formulated gluten free flour blend that allows them to rise beautifully without any wheat flour.

Can I substitute any ingredients in Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins?

Yes! You can replace coconut oil with another vegetable oil and use different spices based on your preference.

How many calories are in Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins?

Each muffin contains approximately 81 calories, making them a guilt-free snack option!

Can I make these muffins nut-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure the dairy-free milk and any added ingredients are nut-free.

How do I know when my muffins are done baking?

Check if a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating they are baked through.

Final Thoughts

These mini gluten free vegan apple muffins are perfect for any occasion, from school snacks to cozy family gatherings. Their delightful taste and texture make them versatile; feel free to experiment with different spices or fruits. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy homemade goodness!