Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
In another bowl, whisk together the applesauce, almond milk, and maple syrup until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts and dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter.
In a small bowl, mix a tablespoon of sugar with a teaspoon of cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the filled muffin cups.
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Serve warm with extra maple syrup or nut butter for an indulgent touch.