These soft and cozy applesauce muffins are a quick, wholesome breakfast or snack, made with oats, whole wheat flour, and warm spices.

1½ cups quick-cooking oats

1½ cups whole wheat flour

½ cup sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon salt

1½ cups unsweetened applesauce

1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.

In a large bowl, whisk together oats, whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.

Add applesauce, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until fully combined—do not overmix.

Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.

Bake for 23–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Add ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for extra texture.

Sprinkle muffin tops with brown sugar before baking for a hint of sweetness.

Use gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.

Reduce sugar to ⅓ cup for a less sweet version.