Cinnamon Apple Muffins

Makes 12 muffins

This recipe for apple muffins came from my mother. They are quick, easy and so delicious. Make them as indicated or in miniature muffin tins, adjusting the baking time accordingly.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup shortening, melted, preferably non-hydrogenated
• 1 cup sliced and coarsely chopped apples

Preheat oven to 350° F. Grease medium-sized muffin tins. Sift together the sifted flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and 1/4 cup sugar. Combine the milk and egg; beat well. Add to flour mixture and stir to blend. Blend in melted shortening. Beat just enough to mix well. Combine apple slices and remaining 1/4 cup sugar. Fold into batter. Pour into muffin tins, filling each cup 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cake tester inserted in center of muffin comes out clean. Cool in pans for about 5 minutes. Remove and cool completely on a rack. These muffins are equally good if served slightly warm.