Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples with a crunchy crumble topping. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, making them a versatile choice for various occasions. Their tender texture and sweet flavor make them a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these muffins come together in no time.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of fresh apples and warm spices creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast or a coffee break with friends, apple crumble muffins fit right in.
• Freezer Friendly: You can make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for later enjoyment without losing their deliciousness.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make the baking process much smoother. Here’s what you need to prepare your apple crumble muffins.

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, ensuring they bake evenly.
• Electric mixer: It makes mixing ingredients faster and easier, giving your batter a fluffy texture.
• Whisk: A great tool for blending dry ingredients quickly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

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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 a muffin tin by placing paper liners in each cup.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl, whisk together the following:
* ¾ cup flour
* ¼ cup light brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients for Muffins

In another bowl, whisk together:
* 2 cups flour
* 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
* ½ teaspoon nutmeg
* 1½ teaspoons baking powder
* ½ teaspoon salt

Set this mixture aside as well.

Step 4: Cream the Sugars and Butter

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together:
– ½ cup light brown sugar
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter

Mix until light and fluffy. Then add:
– 2 large eggs
– ¼ cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Continue mixing 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 to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Then add:
– ½ cup milk

Mix again before adding in the remaining dry ingredients. Stir by hand until just combined. Gently fold in:
– 1½ cups diced apples

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups and Add Crumble

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

Step 7: Bake Your Muffins

Bake at 400° F for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with minimal crumbs. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade apple crumble muffins! These treats are sure to be loved by all who taste them!

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, there are many serving suggestions to enhance their flavors.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas – Add fresh banana slices on the side for a sweet and creamy contrast.
• Berries – Serve with strawberries or blueberries for a burst of freshness and color.

With Yogurt

• Greek Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture and tanginess, making it a wholesome option.
• Flavored Yogurt – Choose vanilla or honey-flavored yogurt to complement the muffin’s sweetness.

With Coffee or Tea

• Hot Coffee – Enjoy your muffins with a warm cup of coffee for a classic breakfast pairing.
• Herbal Tea – A soothing herbal tea can balance the sweetness of the muffins and provide relaxation.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Fruit Salad – Create a colorful fruit salad to serve alongside your muffins for a refreshing addition.
• Cheese Platter – Include some mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that pair well with sweet flavors.

How to Perfect Apple Crumble Muffins

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

• Bold Measurements – Accurately measure ingredients to maintain the right texture and flavor balance.
• Bold Room Temperature Ingredients – Use eggs, butter, and milk at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.
• Bold Don’t Overmix – Gently fold in dry ingredients to avoid dense muffins; stop mixing as soon as no flour streaks remain.
• Bold Check Doneness Early – Start checking muffins at 18 minutes to prevent overbaking; they should be golden and spring back when touched.
• Bold Experiment with Apples – Try different apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for varying sweetness and tartness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Muffins

Apple crumble muffins can be complemented by various delicious side dishes that elevate your meal experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Bold Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with fruits and nuts makes for a hearty breakfast alongside muffins.
2. Bold Smoothie Bowl – Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with granola and seeds for added crunch.
3. Bold Chia Pudding – A light chia pudding offers a nutritious side that pairs well with the muffin’s sweetness.
4. Bold Toasted Nuts – Serve mixed toasted nuts for an extra crunch and protein boost next to your muffins.
5. Bold Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and richness that complements the sweet flavor of the muffins.
6. Bold Vegetable Sticks – Fresh vegetable sticks like carrots or cucumbers provide a crunchy contrast to the soft muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Crumble Muffins, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the texture and flavor. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can lead to uneven mixing. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for a better batter consistency.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can create dense muffins. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep your muffins light and fluffy.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your muffins dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Skipping the crumble topping: The crumble adds texture and sweetness. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for that delicious finish.
• Opening the oven door too soon: This can cause your muffins to sink. Wait until they’re nearly done before checking if they’re baked through.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Crumble Muffins in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Crumble Muffins

• Freeze muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Apple Crumble Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat muffins for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Apple Crumble Muffins special?

Apple Crumble Muffins are special because they combine tender muffin texture with a sweet, crunchy topping, making them perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Can I substitute different fruits in these muffins?

Yes! You can use various fruits like pears or berries instead of apples. Just ensure they are diced similarly for even cooking.

How do I prevent my muffins from sticking to the liners?

To prevent sticking, lightly grease the muffin liners or use parchment paper liners designed to be non-stick.

How long do Apple Crumble Muffins take to bake?

Apple Crumble Muffins typically take around 20 minutes in a preheated oven set at 400°F (200°C).

Final Thoughts

Apple Crumble Muffins are delightful treats that combine sweet apples and a crunchy topping, making them perfect for any time of day. These muffins offer versatile customization options—try adding nuts or different spices based on your taste preferences. Give them a try; you won’t be disappointed!