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Gluten-Free Apple Muffins: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat

If you’re craving a comforting treat with the flavors of fall, these gluten-free apple muffins are just what you need. Packed with juicy apples, warm spices, and a buttery glaze, they deliver the essence of apple pie in a convenient muffin form. Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or dessert, this recipe is easy to make and sure to delight!

gluten free apple muffins
Golden brown gluten-free apple muffins drizzled with a rich, buttery glaze—perfect for fall mornings!

Gluten-Free Apple Muffins: Tips, Tricks, and a Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking for a gluten-free treat that’s packed with fall flavors, these gluten-free apple muffins are exactly what you need. With juicy apples, a hint of cinnamon, and a buttery glaze, they deliver the essence of apple pie in every bite. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, these muffins are sure to impress.

gluten free apple muffins
Pouring the warm brown sugar glaze over freshly baked muffins to lock in moisture and sweetness.

Why Gluten-Free Apple Muffins are a Crowd-Pleaser

These muffins check all the boxes:

  • Naturally Sweet: The apples provide natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon and brown sugar.
  • Gluten-Free and Delicious: Perfect for gluten-sensitive individuals without sacrificing flavor or texture.
  • Easy to Customize: Add your favorite nuts, spices, or even raisins for a personal twist.

Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Apple Muffins

Making gluten-free baked goods can sometimes feel intimidating, but with these tips, you’ll bake like a pro:

1. Choose the Right Apples

The type of apple you use can make a big difference. Here’s a quick guide:

  • Sweet Apples: Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala add natural sweetness and moisture.
  • Tart Apples: Granny Smith provides a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the batter.
  • Mix It Up: Combine sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor.

2. Use Quality Gluten-Free Flour

A good-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour is essential for texture. Pamela’s Gluten-Free Flour works great in this recipe. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum or guar gum, as these help mimic the elasticity of gluten.

3. Don’t Overmix the Batter

Overmixing gluten-free batter can result in dense muffins. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined, then gently fold in the apples and walnuts.

4. Line or Grease Your Pan

Gluten-free batters can stick more than traditional ones. Grease and flour your pan well, or use paper liners if you’re making muffins instead of a cake.

5. Glaze While Hot

Pour the glaze over the muffins while they’re still hot. This allows the glaze to soak into the muffins, adding extra moisture and sweetness.

6. Storage and Reheating

Store these muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for 10–15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Gluten-Free Apple Muffins
Mixing fresh apples and walnuts into the gluten-free batter for the ultimate apple pie flavor

Common Questions About Gluten-Free Apple Muffins

Can I Make These Dairy-Free?

Absolutely! Replace the butter in the glaze with vegan butter and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.

What Can I Use Instead of Walnuts?

If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have an allergy, try pecans, sunflower seeds, or skip the nuts entirely.

Looking for more delicious gluten-free recipes? 🍴 After enjoying these gluten-free apple muffins, don’t miss my Cheesy Artichoke and Spinach Chicken recipe! 🥘 It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for dinner. Click here to check it out and add another favorite to your gluten-free meal rotation!

Gluten-Free Apple Muffins

Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups gluten free all purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs beaten

Add Ins

  • 3 1/2 cups chopped apples
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts

Glaze

  • 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar packed
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a muffin pan or line with wrappers.
  • In a large mixing bowl, sift together the gluten-free flour, white sugar, salt, cinnamon, and baking soda.
  • Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the vegetable oil, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined; the batter will be thick.
  • Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts (if using) until evenly incorporated.
  • Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin pan. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • While the muffins are baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, milk, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 2 ½ minutes.
  • Remove the muffins from the oven and immediately pour the hot glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to soak in as the muffins cool.
  • Let the muffins cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. These muffins can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

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Amanda

Hi! I’m Amanda, a Kansas City Lifestyle Blogger and proud mom of two little ones. I’m passionate about sharing my love for travel, fitness, and baking, all while navigating life’s adventures. When I’m not exploring new places or trying out a recipe, you’ll likely find me geeking out on social media trends or finding inspiration in the everyday.

2 thoughts on “Gluten-Free Apple Muffins: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat

  • What is the baking time for muffins please?

  • Looks yummy! Thank you for the recipe!

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