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Apple Cinnamon Muffins in a Cast Iron Skillet

These apple cinnamon muffins are baked directly in a vintage cast iron skillet, creating a rustic, cozy treat with crispy edges and a moist, tender crumb. The key ingredients—firm tart apples, warm cinnamon, and buttery batter—combine to produce a fragrant, golden-brown top with juicy apple bites inside. The baking method emphasizes the comforting ritual of homemade baking, perfect for autumn mornings or any chilly day.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium apples firm tart variety like Granny Smith
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2/3 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon for sprinkling on top (optional)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Cast iron skillet or muffin tin
  • Rubber spatula
  • Toothpick or cake tester
  • Oven thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease your cast iron skillet or muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Peel and dice the apples into small, even 1/4-inch pieces. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening and spices.
  4. In a separate bowl, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Then whisk in the light brown sugar until combined and slightly thickened.
  5. Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for added depth.
  6. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this keeps the muffins tender.
  7. Fold in the diced apples, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
  8. Spoon the batter into the prepared skillet or muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. Don't worry about smoothing the tops; a rustic look is charming.
  9. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top of each muffin for extra warmth and aroma, if desired.
  10. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should look crispy, and the house will smell like cinnamon and baked apples.
  11. Remove from the oven and allow the muffins to rest in the skillet for about 10 minutes. They will firm up slightly as they cool, making them easier to serve.
  12. Serve warm, perhaps dusted with a little powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey. Enjoy the crispy edges and juicy apple bites inside, savoring the cozy, nostalgic flavors.

Notes

For an extra touch, sprinkle cinnamon over the batter before baking or serve with a dollop of whipped cream.