Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

Filled with diced apples and warm fall spices, these Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins are perfect for school snacks or a cozy treat at home. Easy to make and deliciously satisfying, they cater to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. With their delightful aroma and tender texture, these muffins will quickly become a favorite for both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These muffins come together in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous baking sessions.
• Health-Conscious: Made with gluten-free flour and free from animal products, they are suitable for many dietary preferences.
• Flavorful Spices: The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom adds warmth and depth to every bite.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy them as a breakfast option, a school snack, or an afternoon treat with coffee or tea.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love the sweet taste of applesauce and fresh diced apples, making them an ideal choice for little ones.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare these Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini muffin pan (24-cup)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini muffin pan: Ensures even baking of small muffins that are perfect for snacking.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to easily combine wet and dry ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the mixture for fluffier muffins.
• Cooling rack: Provides proper airflow around muffins, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins:

• ¼ cup (60ml) melted coconut oil
• ½ cup (120ml) unsweetened dairy-free milk
• ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon (78g) unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 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
• ¾ cup (85g) diced apples (1 small apple; see note about apples below)
• 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) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Prepare Muffin Pan

If necessary, grease your mini muffin pan that holds up to 24 cups.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl:
1. Combine melted coconut oil, non-dairy milk, applesauce, and vanilla extract.
2. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together gluten free flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl containing the dry ingredients:
1. Mix well until combined but do not overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Diced Apples

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

Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared muffin cups in your pan.

Step 8: Bake Muffins

Bake in the preheated oven for about 9–11 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean from the largest muffin.

Step 9: Cool Muffins

Once baked:
1. Remove them from the oven.
2. Let cool in the muffin pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack.

Step 10: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While muffins cool:
1. In a small bowl, add remaining melted coconut oil.
2. In another bowl, mix together remaining sugar and cinnamon.

Step 11: Coat Muffins

After muffins are fully cooled:
1. Dip each muffin top into melted coconut oil first.
2. Then dip into cinnamon/sugar mixture ensuring complete coverage.
3. Place back on cooling rack.

Step 12: Repeat Coating Process

Continue this process until all muffins are coated with delicious cinnamon sugar topping! Enjoy your freshly baked Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins!

How to Serve Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

These mini gluten free vegan apple muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy them in various ways to suit your taste or occasion. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your muffin experience.

For Breakfast

• Pair with a dollop of almond butter for a protein boost.
• Serve alongside a smoothie for a balanced start to your day.

As a Snack

• Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Add some nut or seed butter on top for extra flavor and nutrition.

For Dessert

• Drizzle with maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness.
• Serve warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

At Parties

• Arrange on a platter with fresh fruit for a colorful display.
• Offer alongside assorted dips like hummus or guacamole for a unique twist.

How to Perfect Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

To achieve the best results with your mini gluten free vegan apple muffins, consider the following tips. These small adjustments can make a big difference in texture and flavor.

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples will add more flavor and moisture to your muffins.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon the flour into the measuring cup instead of scooping it out to avoid packing it down.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Check doneness early: Ovens vary, so check your muffins at the 9-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
• Cool completely before dipping: Allowing muffins to cool ensures that they hold their shape when dipped in oil and sugar.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

Mini gluten free vegan apple muffins pair wonderfully with various side dishes. These options can complement their sweet flavors and create a delightful meal or snack.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and bright colors to your plate.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for added crunch and creaminess.
3. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside homemade granola for extra texture and nutrients.
4. Vegetable Sticks: Carrot and cucumber sticks provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet muffins.
5. Oatmeal Bowl: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and cinnamon makes for a hearty breakfast option.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: Creamy chia pudding adds healthy fats and pairs well with the muffins’ flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mini gluten free vegan apple muffins is a fun and rewarding experience. However, there are a few common mistakes that can affect your results.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect amounts can lead to muffins that are too dense or too crumbly. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Skipping the cooling time: Removing muffins from the pan too soon can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool for at least 10 minutes in the muffin pan before transferring to a rack.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in tough muffins. Mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Using the wrong flour blend: Not all gluten free flour blends behave the same. Make sure to use a blend suitable for baking and follow any specific instructions on the package.
• Ignoring oven temperature accuracy: An inaccurate oven temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked muffins. Use an oven thermometer for accurate readings.
• Forgetting to fold in apples gently: If you mix in apples too vigorously, they may break down and turn mushy. Fold them in carefully for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

• Freeze muffins in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge overnight before eating.

Reheating Mini Gluten Free Vegan Apple Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and reheat for about 5–10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin for about 15-20 seconds; avoid overheating as it may become dry.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I substitute the coconut oil?

Yes, you can use other oils like vegetable or canola oil as substitutes for coconut oil without altering the recipe significantly.

How do I make these muffins sweeter?

To make them sweeter, consider adding more sugar or including maple syrup or agave nectar into the batter.

Are mini gluten free vegan apple muffins freezable?

Absolutely! These muffins freeze well and can be enjoyed later after thawing.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Yes! Feel free to customize by adding nuts or raisins for extra flavor and texture.

What type of apples should I use?

Choose firm apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best results; they hold up well during baking.

Final Thoughts

These mini gluten free vegan apple muffins are delightful snacks perfect for any occasion. With their warm spices and sweet apple chunks, they’re sure to please everyone. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices or add-ins like nuts or dried fruits for a unique twist!