Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins are a delightful treat that combines tender muffin texture with the comforting flavors of spiced apples and a crunchy crumble topping. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these muffins are easy to prepare and will impress family and friends alike. Their warm cinnamon aroma makes them an ideal choice for cozy gatherings or a simple afternoon pick-me-up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these muffins in no time.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy them as breakfast, a snack, or even dessert—perfect for any occasion!
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of apples and spices creates a comforting taste that everyone loves.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These muffins are sure to delight both kids and adults with their sweet and buttery flavor.
• Perfect for Fall: The warm spices make these muffins an autumn favorite that captures the essence of the season.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, gather your tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating delicious apple crumble muffins!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Paper liners
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Essential for shaping your muffins perfectly.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures your batter is fluffy and well-blended.
• Whisk: Great for mixing dry ingredients thoroughly, which helps in achieving even flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Apple crumble muffins are tender and sweet muffins spiced with cinnamon and topped with a brown sugar crumble.

For the Muffins:

• ¾ cup (93 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50 g) packed light brown sugar
• 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 4 Tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (100 g) packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick or 113 g) unsalted butter (room temperature)
• ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt) (room temperature)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120 ml) milk (room temperature)
• 1 ½ cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

How to Make Apple Crumble Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400° F. Prepare a muffin tin by placing paper liners in each cup to make muffin removal easier after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In a bowl, whisk together the following:
* ¾ cup all-purpose flour
* ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pour in the melted butter and mix until small clumps form. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together:
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
* ½ teaspoon salt
* 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
* ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Cream the Sugars and Butter

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to blend:
* ½ cup packed light brown sugar
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* ½ cup unsalted butter

Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in:
* 2 large eggs
* ¼ cup sour cream
* 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Mix until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add half of the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Then add:
* ½ cup milk

Mix again before adding the remaining dry mixture. Stir until just combined, then fold in:
* 1 ½ cups diced apples

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups

Divide the batter among prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Generously sprinkle the crumble topping over each muffin.

Step 7: Bake Your Muffins

Bake at 400° F for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with minimal crumbs. Once baked, allow them to cool in the pan for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins are deliciously versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and appeal. Whether for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, these muffins can be paired with a range of accompaniments to elevate your experience.

With a Dollop of Whipped Cream

• Adding whipped cream on top of warm muffins creates a light and airy texture that complements the apple filling beautifully.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey adds natural sweetness and a touch of floral flavor, making your muffins even more irresistible.

Alongside Fresh Fruit

• Pairing your muffins with slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas provides a refreshing contrast to the rich muffin texture.

Served with Yogurt

• A side of yogurt offers a creamy, tangy balance that enhances the flavors of the muffin while adding protein to your meal.

Paired with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoying muffins with a cup of tea or coffee makes for a comforting snack or breakfast combination perfect for any time of day.

How to Perfect Apple Crumble Muffins

Creating the perfect apple crumble muffins requires attention to detail in both mixing and baking. Here are some tips to ensure your muffins turn out delightful every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter, eggs, and dairy are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep the muffins tender. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Choose Quality Apples: Fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp add great flavor and texture. Avoid mushy apples.
• Fill Muffin Cups Properly: Fill each muffin cup three-quarters full for optimal rise and an even bake.
• Let Them Cool: Allow muffins to cool in the pan briefly before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents soggy bottoms.
• Store Correctly: Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins can shine even brighter when served alongside complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt
   A smooth and creamy yogurt provides a tangy contrast that enhances the sweetness of the muffins.

2. Cottage Cheese
   This protein-packed option adds a savory touch that balances the sweet flavors beautifully.

3. Chia Seed Pudding
   A nutrient-dense pudding made with almond milk creates a satisfying side that pairs well with the muffin’s textures.

4. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits can refresh your palate while highlighting the apple notes in the muffins.

5. Nut Butter Spread
   Almond or peanut butter spread on warm muffins offers added richness and healthy fats.

6. Smoothie Bowl
   A vibrant smoothie bowl filled with berries and greens makes for an energizing complement to your muffin experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Crumble Muffins, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your muffins turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can lead to a dense texture. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough muffins. Stir until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents dense muffins due to excess flour.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven. Baking in a cold oven can result in unevenly baked muffins.
• Forgetting the crumble topping: The crumble adds texture and flavor. Don’t skip this step; generously sprinkle it over your muffin batter before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Crumble Muffins

• Freeze muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Apple Crumble Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap muffins in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin on high for about 20-30 seconds. Keep an eye on it to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a muffin in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Crumble Muffins.

Can I use other fruits in my Apple Crumble Muffins?

Yes! You can substitute apples with other fruits like pears or berries for different flavors.

How do I make my Apple Crumble Muffins healthier?

Consider using whole wheat flour or reducing sugar. You could also add nuts or oats for extra fiber.

Can I make Apple Crumble Muffins gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

What is the best way to store leftover Apple Crumble Muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

Apple Crumble Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect breakfast or snack option and can easily be customized with different fruits or spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of homemade muffins!

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Apple Crumble Muffins

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Makes about 12 muffins 1x

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Description

Apple Crumble Muffins are the perfect blend of soft, moist muffin and a crunchy, sweet topping that celebrates the flavors of autumn. These delightful muffins feature tender pieces of spiced apples enveloped in a buttery crumble, making them an ideal choice for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Their enticing aroma fills your kitchen while baking, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting afternoon treat. With straightforward preparation steps, you can impress family and friends with these homemade muffins that are sure to be a hit!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk (room temperature)
• 1 ½ cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together ¾ cup flour, ¼ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Add melted butter and mix until clumpy; set aside.
3. In another bowl, combine 2 cups flour, baking powder, salt, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, and nutmeg; set aside.
4. Using an electric mixer, cream together ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup room temperature butter until fluffy. Mix in eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with milk; fold in diced apples gently.
6. Fill muffin cups three-quarters full and generously sprinkle crumble topping on each.
7. Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 muffin (80g)
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg