For those seeking a homemade snack that’s both nutritious and satisfying, protein-packed apple muffins might just be the ideal option. Perfect for breakfast, lunchboxes, or a quick afternoon pick-me-up, these muffins are made with wholesome ingredients like wholemeal flour, oats, mixed seeds, cottage cheese, fresh apples, and raisins. This combination ensures a good balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, all while keeping added sugar levels low.
To get started, preheat your oven to 195°C (or 175°C if using a fan oven) and line a 12-hole muffin tray with paper liners. In one large bowl, mix together 200g of wholemeal self-raising flour, 80g of mixed seeds, 50g of rolled oats, 50g of raisins, ½ teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda, 1½ teaspoons of mixed spice, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. These dry ingredients will form the base of your muffin batter.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 eggs, 150g of cottage cheese, 125g of demerara sugar, and 100ml of extra-virgin olive oil until you achieve a smooth blend. Combine these wet ingredients with the dry mixture, folding them carefully to maintain a light texture. Add 200g of grated apple, ensuring you leave the skin on to boost fiber and impart a delightful texture to the muffins.
For an added crunch, prepare a topping by mixing 20g of mixed seeds, 15g of rolled oats, 1 tablespoon of demerara sugar, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cases and sprinkle the oat and seed topping over each one. Bake the muffins for about 25 to 30 minutes, checking their doneness by inserting a skewer into the center—if it comes out clean, they are ready. Let the muffins cool in the tin before serving.
These apple muffins remain fresh for up to two days when stored in an airtight container. Additionally, they can be frozen, making them a convenient option for those who like to have a quick, healthy snack available during busy weeks.