Apple Crumble Muffins

If you’re looking for a deliciously cozy treat, you’re in the right place! Apple crumble muffins are the perfect blend of sweet apples and warm spices, all wrapped up in a tender muffin. They’re not just tasty; they bring a smile to everyone’s face, whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a gathering with friends and family. The delightful aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating these little bundles of joy!

What makes these muffins truly special is their crumbly topping. It adds a lovely texture that pairs perfectly with the moistness of the muffin itself. Plus, they can be enjoyed any time of day—whether as a breakfast pick-me-up or an afternoon snack. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have these muffins baking in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet apple and cinnamon flavor, making them perfect for all ages.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch on the weekend and enjoy fresh muffins all week long!
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients or adjust the spices to your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each one plays a vital role in creating those delicious apple crumble muffins.

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)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tweak it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the apples: Experiment with different varieties like Fuji or Gala for a unique flavor.
• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Include dried fruit: Dried cranberries or raisins can add a lovely sweetness and chewiness.
• Spice it up: If you love warmth, try adding ginger or cloves for an extra kick!

How to Make Apple Crumble Muffins

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your muffins bake evenly and rise beautifully. While that’s heating up, prepare your muffin tin with paper liners so they’re ready when your batter is mixed.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and optional cinnamon. Pour in melted butter and mix until small clumps form. This crumble will give your muffins that irresistible topping that everyone loves!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This step is important because it ensures even distribution of the leavening agents throughout your muffins.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together both sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. Scraping down the sides helps incorporate all ingredients thoroughly for a smooth batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add half of your dry mixture into the wet mix. Stir gently until just combined—you don’t want to overmix! Then pour in the milk and mix again before adding the rest of the dry mixture along with those gorgeous diced apples.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups

Carefully divide your batter among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Generously sprinkle that delightful crumble mixture over top—don’t be shy; this is what makes these muffins special!

Step 7: Bake Them Up!

Pop those beauties in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; when a toothpick comes out clean with just a few crumbs attached, they’re done! Let them cool in the pan briefly before transferring them to a wire rack.

Enjoy every bite of these scrumptious apple crumble muffins—they’re sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumble Muffins

Making apple crumble muffins is easy and fun, but a few tips can take your baking to the next level!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and results in fluffier muffins.

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp; both add a delightful balance of flavor to your muffins.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep your muffins light and airy. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins!

• Let Them Cool Slightly: Allowing the muffins to cool in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack ensures they hold their shape and prevents sogginess.

• Make Extra Crumble: If you love a crunchy topping, feel free to double the crumble mixture! A generous layer adds texture and flavor that everyone will appreciate.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Muffins

These apple crumble muffins make a fantastic treat for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and makes the muffins look extra special.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Mix equal parts cinnamon and sugar, then sprinkle over warm muffins for an aromatic finish that enhances their flavor.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt serves as a creamy contrast that complements the flavors of the muffin while adding protein.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits not only adds color but also balances the sweetness of the muffins with its natural tartness.
• Hot Cocoa or Tea: Pairing these muffins with a warm beverage creates a cozy experience perfect for chilly mornings or afternoons.
• Nuts or Granola: For added crunch, serve your muffins alongside some toasted nuts or granola. This brings in another layer of texture that’s delightful with each bite.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions ready, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking! Enjoy every delicious moment of making these scrumptious apple crumble muffins!

Make Ahead and Storage

Apple crumble muffins are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast or snack throughout the week. They store well and can easily be frozen, making them a convenient choice for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow muffins to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Store wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat muffins in the oven at 350° F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave muffins on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds.
• Enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture!

FAQs

Have questions about making these delightful apple crumble muffins? Here are some common queries!

Can I use different types of apples in apple crumble muffins?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Fuji or Gala for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Apple Crumble Muffins healthier?

You can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour, use less sugar, or replace some butter with unsweetened applesauce. This will maintain moisture while cutting down on calories.

Can I make Apple Crumble Muffins gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How long do Apple Crumble Muffins last?

When stored properly, these muffins can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try these scrumptious apple crumble muffins! They’re not only easy to make but also bring warmth and comfort that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as part of your meal prep, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!