Spiced Apple Muffins

Am I allowed to describe the sky as being spicy? Is that an appropriate adjective? How about I say that it's spicy, because it warms the very depths of one's heart? Does that make it an accurate term? I think so. 

I took this photograph Monday morning as my muffin man left for work. It was too beautiful not to snap a quick shot. The colors were absolutely incredible, so full of warmth and emotion. It is quite a coincidence that the adjective used to describe the apple muffins I made the same day, also suits the glorious image of that morning's sunrise.

 

One of my favorite desserts to tackle any day of the week is muffins or cupcakes. Would anyone venture to guess why? Well, I'll tell you... They are fun, easy, delicious, and a full-blown dessert in one content little package! What could be better than picking up a portion of cake in its own individual wrapper and scarfing it down without having to worry about how many centimeters it will add to one's love handles? In my opinion, one muffin a day should keep the doctor away!

 These spiced apple muffins are a wonderful addition to any afternoon tea-time snack. A tartness from the apples is the perfect accompaniment to the warm flavor of the cinnamon and nutmeg. A surprising moistness is retained throughout the cooking process and they seem to taste even better as the days pass by. I recommend treating yourself to these little gems as soon as possible. Spice up your tummy as you enjoy the spiciness of a sunrise near you!

Spiced Apple Muffins

Recipe adapted from Tasty Kitchen Member, kitchenlovenest

2 whole Granny Smith Apples, peeled

1 tsp. lemon juice
½ cup canola oil
½ cup white sugar
½ cup brown sugar

2 tsp. vanilla extract

1 tsp. almond extract
1 whole egg
2 cups flour
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 pinch nutmeg
1 pinch allspice
½ tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking powder
6 Tablespoons milk

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Chop your apples into small cubes and coat them with the lemon juice to prevent browning. Combine the oil, sugars, and vanilla, and cream until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs and beat 1-2 minutes or until fully combined.
Sift together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and baking powder.

Add the apples, dry ingredients, and milk to the wet mixture. Stir only until just incorporated. Divide the batter into muffin cups (or spray the tin with baking spray). Bake for 25-35 minutes, until the tops are just starting to crack. Remove from the oven and place muffins on a cooling rack. Cool completely and enjoy.