What makes these muffins lightened?

Using unsweetened applesauce and low-fat Greek yogurt in place of heavier fats reduces calories while keeping moisture and tenderness.

How do I create the cinnamon swirl effect?

Swirl a mixture of brown sugar and ground cinnamon gently into the batter before baking to create a fragrant cinnamon ribbon inside.

Yes, replacing half the flour with whole wheat adds fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor without compromising texture.

The streusel adds a crunchy, buttery layer on top, balancing the soft muffins with texture and sweetness.

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs when the muffins are fully baked.

Yes, chopped dried cranberries or walnuts can be folded into the batter for additional texture and festivity.

Tender, festive muffins swirled with cinnamon and topped with a crunchy streusel—lighter in calories but full of holiday flavor.

These muffins quickly became a favorite in my family during the holidays and make mornings extra special.

Muffin Batter: 1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (50 g) light brown sugar packed, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened applesauce, 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-fat Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup (60 ml) light olive oil or melted coconut oil, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/4 cup (60 ml) low-fat milk
Cinnamon Swirl: 2 tbsp (30 g) light brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Streusel Topping: 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp (25 g) light brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 2 tbsp (28 g) cold unsalted butter diced

Preheat oven:: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly coat with nonstick spray.
Mix dry ingredients:: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Mix wet ingredients:: In a separate bowl, whisk applesauce, Greek yogurt, oil, eggs, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
Combine batter:: Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Prepare swirl:: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
Fill muffin cups:: Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter. Sprinkle each with about 1/2 tsp of the cinnamon swirl, then top with the remaining batter. Use a toothpick to gently swirl.
Make streusel:: For the streusel, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in the cold butter with a fork or fingers until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the muffins.
Bake:: Bake for 20 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool:: Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Sharing these muffins with my family added a warm, festive touch to our holiday breakfasts.

12-cup muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, fork or pastry blender, wire rack

Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (milk, yogurt, butter). Check all packaged ingredients for potential allergen cross-contamination.

Calories: 165 per muffin, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 25 g, Protein: 3 g

Enjoy these festive lightened muffins warm for the best experience and holiday cheer.

→ What makes these muffins lightened?: Using unsweetened applesauce and low-fat Greek yogurt in place of heavier fats reduces calories while keeping moisture and tenderness.
→ How do I create the cinnamon swirl effect?: Swirl a mixture of brown sugar and ground cinnamon gently into the batter before baking to create a fragrant cinnamon ribbon inside.
→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?: Yes, replacing half the flour with whole wheat adds fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor without compromising texture.
→ What is the purpose of the streusel topping?: The streusel adds a crunchy, buttery layer on top, balancing the soft muffins with texture and sweetness.
→ How do I know when the muffins are done baking?: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs when the muffins are fully baked.
→ Can I add extra ingredients to enhance flavor?: Yes, chopped dried cranberries or walnuts can be folded into the batter for additional texture and festivity.