Loaded with bits of apple, cheddar cheese and oats, these muffins are great for breakfast, afternoon snacks or lunchbox treats.

Apple 'N Cheddar Oatmeal Muffins

1 1/4 cups quick or old fashioned oats
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon apple pie spice or ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
3/4 cup chopped apple (about 1 medium)
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup apple juice
1 large egg, slightly beaten
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1. Heat oven to 400°F (205°C).
2. Line 12 muffin cups with paper baking cups or spray bottoms only with no-stick cooking spray.
3. Combine oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, baking soda and salt. Stir in apples and cheese.
4. Add combined apple juice, beaten egg and oil; mix just until dry ingredients are moistened.
5. Fill muffin cups almost full.
6. Bake 20 to 24 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Makes 12 muffins.