Looking for a tasty, unique muffin recipe that’s both healthy and easy to make? These Sourdough Applesauce Muffins are exactly what you need. Combining the mild tang of sourdough with the natural sweetness of applesauce, these muffins are moist, flavorful, and perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone just starting out, this recipe is accessible and rewarding.
Who is This Recipe For?
These muffins are perfect for sourdough lovers who are looking for a new way to use their starter. They’re also ideal for people who prefer a healthy, yet delicious, baked treat. Applesauce is a natural sweetener, reducing the need for extra sugar, making this a great option for families or anyone trying to cut back on refined sugars. Additionally, if you’re new to baking, this recipe’s simplicity will boost your confidence in the kitchen
Ingredients for Sourdough Applesauce Muffins
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious muffins:
- 1 cup sourdough starter (discard or active)
- 1 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar (or your preferred sweetener)
- 1/4 cup oil (vegetable or coconut oil)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations:
- Swap out regular flour for whole wheat for added fiber.
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness.
- Replace oil with melted butter or Greek yogurt for extra moisture.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make these muffins, you don’t need any fancy kitchen gadgets. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Sourdough Applesauce Muffins
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter and applesauce, whisking them together until smooth.
- Add the sugar, oil, egg, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough muffins.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Recipe Tips and Shortcuts
- Use leftover sourdough starter: This recipe is a great way to use up sourdough discard.
- Freeze for later: These muffins freeze beautifully. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Quick applesauce fix: If you’re out of applesauce, you can substitute mashed bananas or pumpkin puree for a different flavor twist.
Variations and Recipe Swaps
- Add-ins for extra flavor: Stir in some chopped walnuts, raisins, or chocolate chips for added texture and sweetness.
- Flavor boost: Add a touch of ginger or cloves for a warm, spicy flavor profile.
- Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour to make the recipe suitable for gluten-intolerant diets.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftover muffins (though they tend to disappear quickly), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. To thaw, just leave them at room temperature for a few hours, or heat them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.
Food and Drink Pairings
These Sourdough Applesauce Muffins pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or a light herbal tea like chamomile. They also make a great side dish to scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast or a light snack paired with yogurt and fruit.