Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and tender apples, all topped with a sweet brown sugar crumble. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Their warm aroma fills your kitchen as they bake, inviting everyone to gather around for a taste of this cozy delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and a crumbly topping creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these muffins quickly, even on busy mornings.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual brunch or a cozy family gathering, these muffins fit right in.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to switch up the fruits or spices based on your preferences or what’s in season.
• Great for Meal Prep: These muffins store well and make for an easy grab-and-go snack throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Ensures even baking and shapes the muffins perfectly; essential for any muffin recipe.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, resulting in light and fluffy batter.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for organized preparation of dry and wet ingredients separately.

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Ingredients

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

For the Crumble Topping:

• 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)

For the Muffins:

• 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 your muffin tin by adding paper liners to each cup. This will prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and optional cinnamon. Then pour in the melted butter. Mix until small clumps form. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set this mixture aside as well.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and room temperature butter until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time along with sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add half of the flour mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing gently just until combined. Then pour in the milk and mix again until smooth. Finally, add the remaining flour mixture and stir just until incorporated. Gently fold in the diced apples using a rubber spatula.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups

Divide your batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups filling each about three-quarters full. Generously sprinkle the crumble topping over each muffin—use it all!

Step 7: Bake Muffins

Bake at 400° F for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with little to no crumbs attached. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these delicious apple crumble muffins fresh out of the oven or stored for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins are delightful any time of day. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance their flavor and texture.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee – Pair your muffins with a warm cup of coffee for a perfect morning boost.
• Tea – A soothing herbal tea complements the sweetness and spice of the muffins nicely.

Topped with Spreads

• Cream Cheese – Spread a layer of cream cheese for a rich and creamy addition.
• Nut Butter – Almond or peanut butter adds a nutty flavor that balances the sweetness.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Fruit Salad – Serve alongside fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt Parfait – Layer with yogurt and granola for a wholesome brunch option.

How to Perfect Apple Crumble Muffins

To ensure your apple crumble muffins turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Apples – Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately – Avoid packing flour into the measuring cup; spoon it in lightly for accurate measurements.
• Room Temperature Ingredients – Using room temperature eggs and dairy helps create a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix just until combined to keep your muffins tender and fluffy.
• Cool Before Serving – Allow muffins to cool slightly before serving to enhance their flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins can be paired with various side dishes that complement their sweet and spiced notes. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt – A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast.
2. Cheese Platter – Offer a selection of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or brie, for an interesting flavor profile.
3. Oatmeal – Warm oatmeal adds heartiness and can be flavored with cinnamon or fruits.
4. Smoothies – Blend up a fruity smoothie for a light and nutritious side.
5. Granola Bars – Crunchy granola bars make an easy grab-and-go option alongside your muffins.
6. Chia Pudding – Creamy chia pudding is not only healthy but also makes for an elegant pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Apple Crumble Muffins, even small errors can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients – Cold butter or eggs can prevent the batter from mixing properly. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.

• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can make muffins dense. Stir until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.

• Skipping the crumble topping – The crumble adds texture and flavor. Don’t skip it; generously sprinkle it on top of your muffins before baking.

• Not measuring flour correctly – Using too much flour can dry out your muffins. Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.

• Opening the oven too soon – Allowing heat to escape can lead to uneven baking. Wait until at least halfway through the baking time before checking on them.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Crumble Muffins

• Place muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label them with the date.

Reheating Apple Crumble Muffins

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat one muffin at a time for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Place a muffin in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Apple Crumble Muffins:

How do I ensure my Apple Crumble Muffins are moist?

Using room temperature ingredients like butter and eggs helps create a moist batter. Also, be careful not to overmix.

Can I substitute sugars in Apple Crumble Muffins?

Yes! You can use coconut sugar or honey as alternatives, but this may change the flavor slightly.

What types of apples are best for Apple Crumble Muffins?

Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best due to their balance of sweetness and tartness, which enhances the flavor.

Can I add nuts or other fruits to my Apple Crumble Muffins?

Absolutely! Adding walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries can give added texture and flavor. Customize as you like!

Final Thoughts

Apple Crumble Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding nuts or different spices according to your taste. Enjoy these sweet treats as breakfast or a snack, and share them with friends and family!