Oatmeal and Apple Muffins: A Quick, Healthy Dessert for Weight Loss
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- 1 cup oatmeal (rolled oats or quick oats)
- 150 ml warm milk (about 2/3 cup)
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 20 g butter (about 1 1/2 tablespoons)
- 1 large egg
- 50 g nuts (about 1/2 cup), chopped (e.g., walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
- Avocado oil (for greasing the muffin tin)
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 muffins
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Protein: 4g
Instructions
1. Soak the Oatmeal
Start by combining 1 cup of oatmeal with 150 ml of warm milk in a medium-sized bowl. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the oats are fully soaked in the milk. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes. This step softens the oats, making them more digestible and giving the muffins a tender texture.
2. Cook the Apples
While the oats are soaking, prepare the apples. In a small pan, melt 20 g of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbly, add the 2 chopped apples. Cook the apples for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and slightly caramelized. This cooking process enhances the natural sweetness of the apples and adds a rich, buttery flavor to the muffins. Once done, set the apples aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Muffin Batter
Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). This temperature ensures that the muffins bake evenly and develop a golden-brown crust.
In a large mixing bowl, lightly beat 1 large egg. This will help to bind the ingredients together and give the muffins structure. To the beaten egg, add the soaked oatmeal, the cooked apples, and 50 g of chopped nuts. Mix everything together until well combined. The nuts add a satisfying crunch and a dose of healthy fats, making the muffins more filling and nutritious.
4. Prepare the Muffin Tin
To prevent the muffins from sticking, grease a muffin tin with a small amount of avocado oil. Avocado oil is a healthy, high-heat oil that won’t break down in the oven, making it a great choice for baking. Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. This allows the muffins room to rise without overflowing.
5. Bake the Muffins
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The muffins are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking them at this temperature and time ensures that they cook through without drying out.
6. Serve
Once the muffins are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for a few minutes. This cooling period helps the muffins firm up, making them easier to remove from the tin. Afterward, transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy these Oatmeal and Apple Muffins warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or a guilt-free dessert. The natural sweetness from the apples and the wholesome goodness of oats make them a satisfying and nutritious choice.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents spoilage.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the muffins individually wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a quick snack.
Recipe Variations
- Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples.
- Fruit Swap: Try replacing the apples with pears or bananas for a different flavor profile. Both fruits work well with oatmeal and add natural sweetness.
- Sweetener Addition: If you prefer a sweeter muffin, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the batter before baking.
These Oatmeal and Apple Muffins are not only quick and easy to make but also a healthy option that can support your weight loss journey. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, they’re a great way to enjoy a sweet treat without any guilt.