Apple Crumble Muffins

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that makes your kitchen smell heavenly, then these Apple Crumble Muffins are just what you need! They are the perfect blend of sweet and spiced, with a delightful crumble topping that adds a satisfying crunch. I love making these muffins for family gatherings or simply to enjoy on a busy weekday morning. They are so easy to whip up, and the best part is that they fill your home with the warm scent of cinnamon and apples—truly irresistible!

These muffins aren’t just delicious; they are also wonderfully versatile. Whether you’re hosting brunch, packing snacks for school, or indulging in a quiet moment with coffee, Apple Crumble Muffins fit right in. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can have these muffins ready in no time.
• Family-approved: Everyone loves the sweet apple and crunchy topping combination—perfect for all ages!
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. They freeze beautifully too!
• Deliciously spiced: The addition of cinnamon brings warmth and flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Crumble Muffins are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful treat:

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)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120 ml) milk
• 1 ½ cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

Variations

One of the best things about these muffins is how flexible they can be! Feel free to mix it up based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Change up the fruit: Swap out apples for pears or berries if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Make it gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
• Try different spices: Experiment with pumpkin pie spice or cardamom for a unique flavor twist.

How to Make Apple Crumble Muffins

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400° F. While it warms up, prepare your muffin tin by lining it with paper liners. This little step makes cleanup super easy!

Step 2: Prepare the Crumble

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix until small clumps form. This crumble will add a wonderful texture to your muffins!

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Setting this aside helps ensure even distribution when mixing with wet ingredients later on.

Step 4: Cream Together Sugars and Butter

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and room-temperature butter until light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it creates air pockets that result in tender muffins!

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in sour cream and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure nothing is left behind.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Add half of your dry ingredients into the wet mixture and mix just until combined. Then pour in the milk and mix again before adding remaining dry ingredients. Finally, gently fold in those lovely diced apples by hand—this way they stay intact!

Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups

Divide the batter among prepared muffin cups so each is about three-quarters full. Don’t be shy with that crumble mixture; generously sprinkle it on top of each muffin for maximum deliciousness!

Step 8: Bake & Cool

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

Now grab yourself one of these scrumptious Apple Crumble Muffins and savor every bite! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumble Muffins

Creating the perfect apple crumble muffins is all about attention to detail and a dash of love. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your muffins turn out deliciously every time!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp not only add natural sweetness but also provide a delightful texture that complements the fluffy muffins.

• Room temperature ingredients: Letting your eggs, butter, and sour cream come to room temperature before mixing helps them combine more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and fluffier muffins.

• Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined keeps your muffins tender. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough muffins instead of the light and airy treat we desire.

• Fill muffin cups properly: Aim to fill each cup about three-quarters full. This allows enough room for the muffins to rise beautifully without overflowing.

• Cool before serving: Giving your muffins a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack allows them to set properly, preventing them from falling apart when you serve them.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Muffins

These apple crumble muffins are perfect for breakfast, snack time, or any cozy gathering. Here’s how you can elevate your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness that complements the crumble perfectly.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A sprinkle of cinnamon on top enhances the warm flavors and gives an inviting aroma that will make everyone eager to dig in.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds a refreshing contrast and pairs beautifully with the sweet muffins for a wholesome breakfast.
• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness to your plate and balances the richness of the muffins.
• Coffee or tea: A warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea makes for delightful pairing, enhancing the overall experience while enjoying these scrumptious treats.
• Maple syrup drizzle: For those with a sweet tooth, a drizzle of maple syrup can take these muffins over-the-top delicious while adding an extra layer of flavor.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy your homemade apple crumble muffins in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Crumble Muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve their delightful freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Store muffins at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them cold, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• For best results, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow muffins to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours.
• Transfer frozen muffins to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, microwave each muffin on high for about 30 seconds or until warmed through.
• For a crispier texture, bake them in a preheated oven at 350° F (175° C) for 10-12 minutes.
• Enjoy warm, perhaps with a pat of butter or drizzle of honey!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious Apple Crumble Muffins that might help you out!

Can I use other types of apples for Apple Crumble Muffins?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices, feel free to experiment with your favorite apple varieties. Just ensure they are firm enough so they hold their shape while baking.

How long do Apple Crumble Muffins last?

If stored properly, Apple Crumble Muffins can last up to 3 days at room temperature and up to a week if refrigerated. They also freeze well for up to 3 months!

Are Apple Crumble Muffins suitable for breakfast?

Yes! These muffins make a fantastic breakfast option. They’re sweet but not overly indulgent, making them a great start to your day.

Can I reduce the sugar in Apple Crumble Muffins?

You can definitely adjust the sugar content according to your taste. Reducing it slightly may still yield delicious results while keeping the muffins flavorful.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about trying these Apple Crumble Muffins! They’re not just tasty; they bring warmth and comfort with every bite. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as part of your meal prep, they’re sure to become a favorite. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your delightful creations!