Maple Apple Muffins

Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: December 17, 2022

My 6 year old daughter had been begging all last week to bake something. She wanted to make some apple cupcakes. She took out a page of her recipe book and wrote down all the ingredients and handed it to me. When I asked her how much of each ingredient, she didn’t have an answer. So I had to explain to her that recipes are not just about ingredients, they are all about measurements. So she started pulling out her measuring spoons and put one next to each ingredient. It was really cute, but then I had to explain to her that when you don’t know what you are doing, it is best to start with a base recipe and adapt it from there.

I found a recipe on the Food Network website for Apple Coffee Cake with Crumble Topping that sounded good. It was by Emeril Lagasse, you can’t go wrong with any of his recipes. I didn’t want a heavy cupcake and I wasn’t in the mood for frosting. So I convinced my daughter we should try to make this recipe as muffins in cute cupcake liners. She was happy. I had most of the ingredients except for sour cream, but I had some Vanilla Chobani yogurt on hand. I also wanted to add a touch of maple, so I replaced some of the sugar for maple syrup.

Just look at those chunks of apples sitting in that fluffy maple cloud. Don’t you just want to dive right in?

Here my assistant in sprinkling the crumble on top of the muffins before putting then in the oven.

We did not go overboard on the crumble, just a little to give the muffins a little crunch. I used some maple butter that I had made before to make the crumble and keep with the maple flavor.

The end result was a light, airy muffin. Not to sweet, but full of maple and apple flavor with a slightly crunchy topping. Perfect to go with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. I’d share, but sadly they are all gone.

Maple Apple Muffins

by The Sweet Chick

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12-20 minutes

Keywords: bake dessert snack breakfast apple maple syrup muffin

Ingredients (24 muffins)

For the muffins

8 tablespoons(1 stick) butter
1 cup light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup all purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
2 cups chopped apples

For the topping

1/2 cup light brown sugar
1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup quick oats
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
4 tablespoons butter (or maple butter)

Instructions

For the muffins

Preheat oven to 350º F. Fill muffin tins with liners.

In a stand mixer, cream together the brown sugar and the butter. Then add the eggs and mix on low until well blended.

In a large bowl sift together flours, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. Then slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture while mixing on low.

Add yogurt and vanilla extract. Then add maple syrup and continue to mix on low until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Lastly, add the chopped apples and mix until apple pieces are well distributed.

Evenly distribute the batter into the muffin liners. Then make the topping.

For the topping

In a small bowl mix together the sugar, flour, oatmeal, and cinnamon. Blend with a fork, making sure there are no lumps.

Melt the butter in a glass container in the microwave for about 20 seconds. Then pour over the dry mixture. Blend with a fork until mixture becomes crumbly.

Evenly distribute the crumble mixture over muffin batter.

Then place muffin tins in the oven and bake at 350º for 15-20 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out dry.

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Is Spinach Acidic? Spinach and Acid Reflux

Health

Aneeza Pervez

Updated Date:
January 2, 2026

Spinach is often celebrated for its nutritional benefits, but for individuals with acid reflux, it’s important to consider how foods impact their condition. Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and irritation. Dietary choices play a critical role in managing this condition, as certain foods can either trigger or alleviate symptoms.

Among the many leafy greens available, spinach stands out for its versatility and nutrient profile. But how does it affect acid reflux? Is it a trigger food, or can it provide relief? In this article, we’ll explore the acidity of spinach, its effects on acid reflux, and practical tips for incorporating it into a reflux-friendly diet.

Is Spinach Acidic or Alkaline?

Spinach has a mildly acidic natural pH, ranging between 5.5 and 6.8. However, once digested, spinach has an alkaline effect on the body due to its high mineral content, including magnesium, calcium, and potassium. This makes it a favorable choice for people managing acid reflux.

Acidic vs. Alkaline Foods

Foods that leave an alkaline residue after digestion can neutralize stomach acid and reduce reflux symptoms. Spinach’s alkalizing properties make it one of the most recommended leafy greens for those dealing with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Spinach and Acid Reflux: Benefits

1. Rich in Alkalizing Minerals

Spinach is packed with magnesium and potassium, which help neutralize stomach acid and soothe the digestive tract.

2. Low in Fat and Calories

Fatty foods are a common trigger for acid reflux because they relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Spinach is naturally low in fat, making it a reflux-friendly option.

3. High in Fiber

Dietary fiber promotes healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation, a condition that can exacerbate acid reflux. One cup of cooked spinach contains approximately 4.3 grams of fiber.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Spinach contains compounds like beta-carotene and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory effects. This can help reduce esophageal irritation caused by acid reflux.

Related to Read: Are Baby Spinach Acidic?

Potential Concerns with Spinach

While spinach is generally safe and beneficial for acid reflux sufferers, some individuals may experience issues:

1. Oxalate Content

Spinach is high in oxalates, which can contribute to kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals. Oxalates do not directly cause acid reflux but may pose risks if consumed in excess.

2. Cooking Methods

How spinach is prepared can influence its effect on acid reflux. For example:

Raw Spinach: Easier to digest for most people and retains its alkalizing properties.
Creamed Spinach: Often prepared with dairy and butter, which are high in fat and can trigger acid reflux.

3. Portion Size

Overeating any food, including spinach, can lead to an overfilled stomach, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux. Moderation is key.

How to Include Spinach in an Acid Reflux-Friendly Diet?

To safely incorporate spinach into your diet, consider the following tips:

1. Pair with Alkaline Foods

Combine spinach with other alkaline foods like cucumbers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for a balanced meal that reduces acidity.

2. Avoid Trigger Ingredients

Avoid adding high-fat dressings, cheese, or acidic condiments like vinegar to spinach dishes.

3. Steam Instead of Frying

Steamed spinach retains its nutrients and is gentle on the stomach. Avoid frying spinach in oil or butter to minimize reflux triggers.

4. Monitor Your Tolerance

Everyone’s tolerance levels differ. Start with small portions of spinach and observe how your body responds.

Author Tip: 7 Kinds of Foods to Avoid with GERD

Spinach-Based Recipes for Acid Reflux

1. Spinach and Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup diced cucumbers
1 tbsp olive oil
A pinch of salt

Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Toss with olive oil and enjoy a light, reflux-friendly meal.

2. Spinach and Sweet Potato Smoothie

Ingredients:

1 cup fresh spinach
1/2 cup cooked sweet potato
1 cup almond milk (unsweetened)
1 tsp honey (optional)

Instructions: Blend all ingredients until smooth. This nutrient-packed smoothie is soothing and easy to digest.

Author Tip: 7-Day Meal Plan For Gastritis

Scientific Evidence Supporting Spinach for Acid Reflux

Several studies support the inclusion of alkaline foods, including spinach, in managing acid reflux symptoms:

Alkaline Diets and GERD Relief: A 2018 study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology highlighted the benefits of alkaline foods in reducing GERD symptoms by neutralizing stomach acid.
Magnesium’s Role: Research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2020) emphasized magnesium’s role in reducing acid production and promoting LES function.
Fiber and Digestive Health: A 2017 study in Nutrients found that high-fiber diets improve digestion and reduce reflux risk.

Final Thoughts

Is spinach acidic? Technically, spinach has a mildly acidic pH, but its alkalizing effect in the body makes it a safe and beneficial choice for those managing acid reflux. By preparing spinach in healthy, low-fat ways and consuming it in moderation, you can enjoy its numerous health benefits without aggravating reflux symptoms.

If you’re unsure about adding spinach to your diet, consult a healthcare provider or dietitian for personalized advice. With mindful choices, spinach can be a delicious and reflux-friendly addition to your meals.