Weight-Loss Mini Muffins – Apple, Raisin & Oat (No Sugar, No Flour)

If you’re trying to cut back on sugar and refined flour but still want something comforting with your tea or coffee, these mini muffins are a solid option. They’re naturally sweetened with fruit, packed with fiber from oats, and portion-controlled so you don’t overdo it.

The combination of grated apple, ripe banana, and raisins gives you sweetness without added sugar, while oats create structure and slow-digesting carbs that help keep you full longer. They’re simple, wholesome, and great for meal prep.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Bake Time: 18–22 minutes

Total Time: 35–40 minutes

Yield: 12 mini muffins

Serving Size: 1–2 muffins

Ingredients

1 medium apple, grated with skin (approx. 150 g)

1 ripe banana, mashed (approx. 120 g)

2 large eggs

1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned, approx. 90 g)

1/3 cup raisins (approx. 50 g)

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven.
Set oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line with paper liners.

Prepare the fruit.
Grate the apple with the skin on and mash the banana until smooth.

Blend the oats (optional).
For a smoother texture, pulse the oats in a blender into a coarse flour. Leave whole for a more rustic texture.

Combine wet ingredients.
In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, mashed banana, grated apple, and vanilla extract.

Add dry ingredients.
Stir in oats, cinnamon, and baking powder until well combined.

Fold in raisins.
Mix gently to distribute evenly throughout the batter.

Rest the batter.
Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes so the oats absorb moisture.

Fill muffin tin.
Spoon batter evenly into mini muffin cups, filling about ¾ full.

Bake.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until tops are set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and store.
Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Store in an airtight container.

Tips

Use a very ripe banana for natural sweetness.

Keep apple skin on for added fiber and nutrients.

Don’t skip the resting step; oats need time to hydrate.

Avoid overmixing to keep texture tender.

If batter feels too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons milk.

Use silicone mini muffin molds for easy removal.

Bake on the center rack for even cooking.

Let muffins cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Refrigerate if keeping longer than 2 days.

Warm slightly before eating for better flavor.

Variations

Add chopped walnuts or almonds for crunch.

Replace raisins with chopped dates.

Add 1 tablespoon chia seeds for extra fiber.

Stir in unsweetened shredded coconut.

Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.

Mix in dark chocolate chips for a treat version.

Use blueberries instead of raisins.

Add grated carrot for a carrot-cake feel.

Use pumpkin puree in place of banana for seasonal flavor.

Add protein powder (1–2 tablespoons) for a protein boost.

Q&A

Are these really sugar-free?
Yes, there’s no added sugar. Sweetness comes naturally from fruit and raisins.

Are they gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats if needed.

Can I make them vegan?
Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg).

How long do they last?
2 days at room temperature or 5 days refrigerated.

Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze up to 2 months in a sealed container.

Why are my muffins dense?
Oat-based recipes are naturally denser than flour muffins.

Can I use quick oats?
Yes, though texture will be softer.

Are they good for weight loss?
They’re portion-controlled, high in fiber, and free of refined sugar, which can support balanced eating.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just bake in batches if needed.

Can I make regular-sized muffins?
Yes, bake 22–25 minutes instead.

Nutrition

(Approximate per mini muffin)

Calories: 75–90 kcal

Protein: 3 g

Carbohydrates: 14 g

Fiber: 2 g

Fat: 2 g

Natural Sugars: 6–8 g

Values vary slightly based on fruit size and oat type.

Conclusion

These Weight-Loss Mini Muffins – Apple, Raisin & Oat are proof that you don’t need refined sugar or flour to enjoy a satisfying baked snack. They’re naturally sweet, filling, and easy to prep ahead for busy mornings or afternoon cravings.

With fiber-rich oats, fruit-based sweetness, and balanced portions, they fit well into a mindful eating plan without feeling restrictive. Keep a batch in your fridge or freezer, and you’ll always have a better-for-you option ready when hunger hits.