Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. These muffins are filled with tender apples and topped with a crunchy crumble, making them a must-try for any autumn gathering or cozy brunch. The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg add depth to each bite, while the simple preparation makes these muffins accessible for bakers of all levels. Enjoy these muffins fresh out of the oven or pack them for lunch—they’re versatile enough for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these muffins quickly.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples and spices creates a comforting taste that everyone loves.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, these muffins suit any event.
• Freezable: You can make a batch ahead of time and freeze leftovers for later enjoyment.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or other fruits to personalize your muffins.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: This tool shapes your muffins perfectly and ensures they bake evenly.
• Electric mixer: It helps achieve a light and fluffy batter quickly, saving you time and effort.
• Whisk: An essential tool for combining dry ingredients thoroughly before mixing with wet components.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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 placing paper liners in each cup.

Step 2: Make the Crumble

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Brown sugar
3. Granulated sugar
4. Ground cinnamon

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt
4. Ground cinnamon

Set this mixture aside as well.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together:
1. Light brown sugar
2. Granulated sugar
3. Unsalted butter

Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then add:
– Eggs
– Sour cream
– Vanilla extract

Mix until well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.

Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Add half of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Then add:
– Milk

Mix again before incorporating the remaining flour mixture until just combined. Gently stir in diced apples by hand.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups

Divide the batter among prepared muffin cups, filling each 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 with little to no crumbs. Once baked, allow the muffins 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!

How to Serve Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast or as a snack, these muffins can be paired with several accompaniments to enhance their flavor and experience.

For Breakfast

• With Coffee: Pair your muffins with a hot cup of coffee for an energizing start to your day.
• With Yogurt: Serve alongside a bowl of yogurt for a creamy contrast that complements the muffin’s texture.

As a Snack

• With Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on top for added protein and richness.
• With Fresh Fruit: Enjoy with slices of fresh fruit like bananas or berries for a refreshing side.

For Dessert

• With Ice Cream: Warm up the muffins slightly and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
• With Whipped Cream: Top the muffins with whipped cream for an indulgent treat after dinner.

How to Perfect Apple Crumble Muffins

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

• Use Fresh Apples: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor in your muffins.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding the flour. This will keep the muffins fluffy and tender.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature to help create a smooth batter.
• Proper Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven fully before baking to achieve the right rise and browning on your muffins.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins are versatile enough to pair well with many side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy, tangy addition that balances the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your meal.
3. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and sliced fruit in a glass for a delicious contrast.
4. Herbed Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea complements the spices in the muffins beautifully.
5. Cheese Platter: Pair with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory touch.
6. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up a nutritious smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds alongside your muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Crumble Muffins, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few to watch for:

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Not letting eggs and dairy come to room temperature can lead to uneven mixing. Always take them out ahead of time.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the muffins dense instead of fluffy. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can ruin your muffins. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy.
• Ignoring the cooling time: Cutting into the muffins too soon can result in gummy centers. Allow them to cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
• Neglecting the crumble topping: Skipping or skimping on the crumb topping means missing out on that delightful texture. Generously sprinkle it over the muffin batter before baking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Crumble Muffins in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for 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.

Reheating Apple Crumble Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat muffins for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each muffin for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Apple Crumble Muffins and their answers.

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! You can use any firm apple variety like Fuji or Gala, depending on your taste preference.

How do I make gluten-free Apple Crumble Muffins?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute; it provides similar moisture and tanginess.

Can I add nuts or raisins to my Apple Crumble Muffins?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts, pecans, or raisins for extra flavor and texture.

How long do Apple Crumble Muffins last?

These muffins will last about 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

Apple Crumble Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite fruits or nuts. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Give these muffins a try and enjoy their tender texture and sweet apple flavor!