Healthy Oatmeal Muffins

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Baking Time: 18-20 minutes

Servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients:

- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats

- 1 cup milk (any type, dairy or non-dairy)

- 1 cup whole wheat flour

- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

- 2 large eggs

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

- 1 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)

- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the muffin cups.

2. Prepare the Oatmeal:

   - In a mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats and milk. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the oats to absorb some of the liquid. This will make your muffins moist and hearty.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients:

   - In a separate large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients:

   - In another bowl, sift or whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.

5. Combine All Ingredients:

   - Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

   - Gently fold in the soaked oats, diced apples, raisins or dried cranberries (if using), and chopped nuts (if using).

6. Fill the Muffin Cups:

   - Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, evenly distribute the muffin batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.

7. Bake:

   - Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

8. Cool and Serve:

   - Allow the oatmeal muffins to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Enjoy your homemade healthy oatmeal muffins as a nutritious breakfast, snack, or on-the-go treat!

These oatmeal muffins are packed with whole grains, fiber, and natural sweetness from the honey and apples. They make a delicious and satisfying addition to your morning routine or a wholesome snack throughout the day.