Apple Cheddar Muffins

These moist and satisfying muffins are a tasty mix of sweet and savory. The apple chunks are fresh and fabulous in every bite, and the cheddar adds a savory touch that puts them over the top. They’re hearty, moist, flavorful, and perfect warmed up with a dab of butter.

This post may contain affiliate link(s). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See Disclosure.

If you love muffins, you’re going to REALLY love these muffins. And if you’re on the fence about muffins or can take them or leave them, do yourself a favor and try these. They’re the perfect mix of sweet and savory and they’re so buttery and delicious.

These are great for breakfast, brunch, a light lunch, or a snack. Heck, they’d even be great for dinner. I love warming them up and putting a dab of butter on them for an extra bit of salty butteryness. Simply delish!

These easy muffins are also simple to make. You don’t need a mixer, and you can make quick work of chopping the apples using an alligator chopper.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour – Measure correctly by spooning into the cup and leveling off. Packing flour makes the muffins dense and tough.
• Sugar – White granulated sugar.
• Baking powder – Check the expiration date or the muffins won’t rise properly.
• Salt – I use kosher salt.
• Cinnamon – Ground cinnamon. A little goes a long way—too much will overpower the apple and cheddar.
• Cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar has the best flavor. I recommend shredding your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese is coated with anti-caking agents that make it gritty and prevent smooth melting.
• Eggs – Large eggs. Extra-large works without adjustment.
• Apple juice
• Butter – I use salted butter. Let it cool slightly before mixing or it’ll scramble the eggs.
• Apples – See my notes below for the best apples to use in Apple-Cheddar Muffins.

The Best Apples for Apple Cheddar Muffins

Look for apples with a touch of sweetness but a firm, crisp texture that’ll hold up during baking. Some good picks are:

• Jonagold
• Braeburn
• Honeycrisp
• Pink Lady
• Gala

How To Make The Best Apple-Cheddar Muffins

Scroll down for the full recipe card with exact measurements and printable instructions.

Start by preheating the oven to 375°F and generously spraying a 24-cup muffin pan with non-stick baking spray.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.

Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it is distributed throughout the dry ingredients. Coating the cheese in the flour mixture helps prevent it from sinking during baking.

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Add the apple juice, melted butter, and diced apple and whisk until well combined.

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each one nearly to the top.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy.

How To Tell If Muffins Are Cooked

Not sure your muffins are cooked through? To determine if your muffins are cooked to perfection, follow these simple tips. First, give them a gentle press on the top with your finger. If they spring back and feel firm, it’s a good sign that they are done. Next, take a toothpick or a small skewer and insert it into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, your muffins are ready! Remember to let them cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack for further cooling.

Chef Jenn’s Tips

• Peel and core the apple before dicing. Use an alligator chopper to get finely diced apple. You could also grate the apple, but then the apple will melt into the muffins.
• Sharp cheddar cheese is great in these muffins. I like white cheddar.
• Don’t overmix the muffins. Mix only until combined.
• Fill the muffin tins – these muffins don’t get huge and poofy.

Serving Suggestions

Wondering what to serve with Apple Cheddar Muffins? As I said, they’re delish with just a bit of butter on them. Or, turn them into a meal. Pair your muffin with a leafy salad, a hearty bowl of soup, or some of last night’s leftovers.

Storage

Your muffins will keep in an airtight container or plastic bag on the counter for up to a day. If you want to keep them longer, pop them into the freezer! Then all you have to do is thaw one and enjoy!