Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins are a delightful treat that combines tender muffin texture with the sweet and spicy flavors of apple and cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, these muffins feature a crunchy brown sugar crumble topping that adds an irresistible touch. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or packing them for lunch, Apple Crumble Muffins are sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making these muffins is a breeze.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm, inviting flavor perfect for any occasion.
• Perfect for Any Time: Enjoy these muffins for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even dessert.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: These muffins store well in an airtight container, making them ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious Apple Crumble Muffins, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: This is essential for shaping your muffins perfectly while they bake.
• Electric mixer: An electric mixer helps achieve a light and fluffy batter by incorporating air into the mixture efficiently.
• Rubber spatula: It’s great for scraping down the sides of bowls, ensuring no ingredients go to waste.

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 cavity. This will help prevent sticking and make removal easy once baked.

Step 2: Make the Crumble

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
• 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 this mixture aside to create that delightful crumble topping.

Step 3: Prepare the Muffin Batter

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

Set this dry mixture aside.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
* Use an electric mixer to beat together:
– ½ cup packed light brown sugar
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter

Mix until light and fluffy.
Add in:
– 2 large eggs
– ¼ cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Blend until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients

Add half of the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined. Then add:
– ½ cup milk

Mix again before adding the remaining dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Finally, fold in:
– 1½ cups diced apples

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups

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

Step 7: Bake

Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven. Bake at 400° F for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cooling slightly before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins offer versatility and flavor that suits any occasion.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve with sliced bananas or berries for a refreshing contrast to the warm muffins.

With Whipped Cream

• Top your muffins with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

With Yogurt

• Pair with Greek yogurt, which adds creaminess and a touch of tartness to balance the sweetness of the muffins.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include in a larger brunch spread alongside other pastries, fruits, and beverages for a festive gathering.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey enhances the flavors and adds extra sweetness to each bite.

How to Perfect Apple Crumble Muffins

Achieving the ideal texture and flavor in your apple crumble muffins is simple with these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep muffins tender; overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
• Choose the Right Apples: Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balance; they add flavor and hold their shape well during baking.
• Adjust Cinnamon to Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of cinnamon based on your preference; it adds warmth but can be adjusted for milder flavor.
• Cool Properly: Allow the muffins to cool slightly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack; this helps maintain their structure.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins are delightful on their own but can be even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness to your meal.
2. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding provides a nutritious contrast and adds an element of indulgence.
3. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal pairs nicely, offering heartiness alongside sweet muffins.
4. Nut Butter Toast: Whole grain toast topped with almond or peanut butter makes for a satisfying side that’s rich in protein.
5. Green Smoothie: A nutrient-packed smoothie balances the sweetness of the muffins while providing vitamins and minerals.
6. Savory Cheese Platter: Including cheese adds a savory component that complements the sweet flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking apple crumble muffins can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results.

• Incorrect Measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can alter the texture and taste. Always use precise measurements for flour, sugar, and apples.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too vigorously can make muffins tough. Mix until just combined to ensure they stay tender and fluffy.

• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can affect how well your batter combines. Let ingredients come to room temperature for better mixing.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to guarantee that your muffins bake properly.

• Ignoring Muffin Liners: Not using liners may cause muffins to stick to the pan. Liners will help with easy removal and keep your muffins intact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Apple crumble muffins will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Apple Crumble Muffins

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

Reheating Apple Crumble Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat muffins for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time on high for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about apple crumble muffins, here are some common questions answered.

How do I make Apple Crumble Muffins gluten-free?

To make apple crumble muffins gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

Can I use other fruits in Apple Crumble Muffins?

Yes! You can replace apples with pears or berries for different flavors while keeping the same muffin base.

What is the best type of apple for Apple Crumble Muffins?

Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best due to their balance of tartness and sweetness, adding great flavor and texture.

How long do homemade Apple Crumble Muffins last?

Homemade apple crumble muffins last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Apple crumble muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding nuts or swapping fruits. This makes them perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack anytime. Try making them today!