Apple crumble muffins are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or a snack. These muffins combine tender apple pieces with a warm cinnamon flavor, all topped with a crunchy brown sugar crumble. Ideal for any occasion, they are sure to please family and friends alike, making your kitchen smell heavenly while filling your taste buds with joy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick prep time, these muffins are perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a comforting taste that everyone loves.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert.
- Perfectly Portable: Muffins are easy to grab on the go, making them an excellent choice for busy mornings.
- Customizable: Add nuts or other spices to make these apple crumble muffins uniquely yours!
Tools and Preparation
To make the best apple crumble muffins, having the right tools is essential. Gather these items before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin tin: Ensures even baking and helps create perfectly shaped muffins.
- Electric mixer: Makes it easier to blend ingredients quickly and achieve a light texture.
- Whisk: Helps mix dry ingredients thoroughly for consistent flavor in each muffin.
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 a muffin tin by placing paper liners in each cup.
Step 2: Make the Crumble
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and 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 the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set this mixture aside.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing 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.
* Mix in sour cream and vanilla until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Add half of the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients; mix just until combined.
- Pour in the milk and mix again until smooth.
- Finally, add the remaining dry mixture and stir until just combined. Gently fold in diced apples by hand.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups
Divide the muffin batter among prepared muffin cups. Fill each cup about three-quarters full.
Generously sprinkle the crumble mixture over each muffin.
Step 7: Bake
Bake at 400° F for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with few crumbs.
Allow muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Apple Crumble Muffins
Apple crumble muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance their flavor.
With Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a delightful sweetness that complements the muffins perfectly.
Drizzled with Honey
- A simple drizzle of honey brings out the natural apple sweetness and adds a hint of floral flavor.
Paired with Coffee
- Enjoy these muffins alongside a hot cup of coffee for a cozy morning treat.
Served Warm with Ice Cream
- For a special dessert, warm up the muffins and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.
Accompanied by Fresh Fruit
- Fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the muffins.
With Yogurt
- Pairing your muffin with yogurt creates a creamy texture that complements the crumbly topping nicely.
How to Perfect Apple Crumble Muffins
To ensure your apple crumble muffins come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing.
Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the muffins tender and light. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
Choose the Right Apples: Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor balance against the sweet batter.
Fill Muffin Cups Properly: Fill each muffin cup three-quarters full to allow room for rising while baking without overflowing.
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with only a few crumbs when done baking.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Muffins
Serving side dishes alongside apple crumble muffins can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
Greek Yogurt
A creamy option that pairs well with the muffins’ sweetness while adding protein.Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that provides contrast in texture and flavor.Oatmeal
Serve warm oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit for a hearty breakfast alongside your muffins.Cheese Plate
Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which offer rich flavors that complement the sweet muffins.Nut Butter Spread
Almond or peanut butter spread on muffin halves adds protein and healthy fats, enhancing nutrition.Chia Pudding
This light and nutritious pudding can be served as a refreshing side that balances sweetness.Coconut Milk Shake
A creamy coconut shake adds tropical flair and goes well with the flavors in your apple crumble muffins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making apple crumble muffins can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter, eggs, or milk can make the batter dense. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in tough muffins. Mix just until combined to keep them tender and fluffy.
- Skipping the crumble topping: The crumble adds texture and flavor. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall experience of your muffins.
- Ignoring the baking time: Every oven is different. Check your muffins a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
- Not using enough apples: Apples add moisture and flavor. Be generous with your diced apples for a delicious bite.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Apple Crumble Muffins
- Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.
Reheating Apple Crumble Muffins
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm muffins for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding apple crumble muffins:
Can I use different fruits in Apple Crumble Muffins?
Yes! You can experiment with other fruits like pears or berries. Just ensure they have similar moisture content as apples.
What type of apples are best for Apple Crumble Muffins?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best due to their balance of tartness and sweetness, which enhances the flavor of your muffins.
How do I make my Apple Crumble Muffins healthier?
You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or reduce the sugar slightly without compromising taste.
Can I skip the crumble topping on my Apple Crumble Muffins?
While you can skip it, the crumble topping adds delightful texture and sweetness that makes these muffins special.
Final Thoughts
Apple crumble muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different fruits or spices based on your preferences. This recipe is perfect for breakfast or as a snack, so give it a try and enjoy these delightful treats!
Apple Crumble Muffins
Apple Crumble Muffins are a delightful fusion of tender apples and warm cinnamon, crowned with a crunchy brown sugar crumble. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these muffins not only fill your home with a heavenly aroma but also tantalize your taste buds with every bite. They are easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for bakers of all levels. With the option to customize with nuts or different spices, these muffins can be uniquely yours. Experience the joy of baking and enjoy these scrumptious treats fresh from your oven!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- For the crumble topping, mix flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Add melted butter and combine until clumps form; set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon for the muffins.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugars until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Mix in sour cream and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk until just combined. Fold in diced apples gently.
- Fill muffin cups three-quarters full and top generously with crumble mixture.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin (90g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Experiment by adding nuts or dried fruits for extra texture. For a healthier option, substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.