Sweet Apple Crumble Muffins Recipe: Cozy Bites For Breakfast

Warm, golden apple crumble muffins bring comfort straight from the oven with their irresistible aroma.

Soft, tender muffins loaded with chunks of sweet apples create a delightful breakfast or afternoon treat.

The buttery crumble topping adds a delectable crunch that makes these muffins truly special.

Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg weave through each bite, promising a nostalgic flavor that feels like a warm hug.

Baking these muffins is easier than you might expect, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

Fresh apples transform ordinary muffins into a memorable morning delight.

Savor each bite and let these muffins become your new favorite weekend baking adventure.

Perfect Pairings for Apple Crumble Muffins

• Pair with Caramel Latte: Complement the apple's sweetness with a creamy caramel latte, enhancing the muffin's warm cinnamon notes and creating a luxurious breakfast experience.
• Serve alongside Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Create a decadent dessert moment by topping a warm apple crumble muffin with a scoop of rich vanilla bean ice cream, melting delightfully into the crumbly texture.
• Match with Chai Tea: Brew a spicy chai tea that echoes the muffin's cinnamon undertones, offering a cozy and aromatic beverage that beautifully balances the apple's natural sweetness.
• Enjoy with Maple Pecan Butter: Spread a homemade maple pecan butter on the muffin, adding nutty depth and complementary maple warmth that elevates the apple and cinnamon flavors.

Apple Crumble Muffins Variations to Try

• Gluten-Free Apple Crumble Muffins: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Use almond flour for the crumble topping to maintain a crunchy texture.
• Vegan Apple Crumble Muffins: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (ground flaxseed mixed with water), use plant-based butter or coconut oil, and swap sour cream with dairy-free yogurt. Select a neutral-flavored vegetable oil for the crumble topping instead of butter.
• Low-Sugar Apple Crumble Muffins: Reduce sugar quantities by half and use monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Replace some sugar with unsweetened applesauce to maintain moisture. Choose tart apple varieties like Granny Smith to enhance natural sweetness without additional sugar.
• Whole Wheat Apple Crumble Muffins: Swap half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Incorporate rolled oats into the crumble topping for extra fiber and a heartier texture. Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for additional nutritional value and crunch.

FAQs

• What makes the crumble topping special?

The crumble topping is made by mixing flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon with melted butter, creating small clumps that provide a delightful crunch and sweet texture to the muffins.

• Why is it important not to overmix the batter?

Overmixing can develop gluten, making the muffins tough and dense. Mixing just until ingredients are combined ensures a tender, light muffin with a soft crumb.

• Can I use a different type of fruit instead of apples?

Yes, you can substitute apples with other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries. Just make sure to dice the fruit into similar-sized pieces for even distribution in the batter.

• How do I know when the muffins are perfectly baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the muffins are done. They should also have a golden-brown top and spring back when lightly touched.

Reasons to Enjoy Apple Crumble Muffins

• Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers, this recipe offers foolproof steps that guarantee delicious results every single time. No complicated techniques required!
• Bursting with warm cinnamon and fresh apple chunks, these muffins capture the essence of cozy autumn mornings and nostalgic home-baked goodness. Each bite feels like a comforting hug. The simple ingredients and straightforward method mean minimal kitchen mess and maximum enjoyment.
• Suitable for breakfast, brunch, snack time, or dessert, these apple crumble muffins appeal to all ages. Kids will love the sweet crumbly topping, while adults appreciate the sophisticated flavor combination.

Ingredients for Apple Crumble Muffins

• All-Purpose Flour: A versatile flour that provides structure and texture to the muffins.
• Ground Cinnamon: A warm spice that adds depth and aromatic flavor to the recipe.
• Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the muffins rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the muffins.

• Light Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar: Sweet ingredients that provide moisture and caramel-like undertones.
• Butter: Adds richness and contributes to the tender crumb of the muffins.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
• Sour Cream, Greek Yogurt: Adds moisture and creates a tangy, tender texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides a classic sweet flavor and enhances the other ingredients.
• Milk: Helps to create a smooth, pourable batter.

• Apples: Fresh fruit that adds natural sweetness and moisture to the muffins.
• Crumble Topping Ingredients (Flour, Light Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar, Cinnamon, Butter): Creates a crunchy, sweet layer that adds texture and flavor to the top of the muffins.

Easy Instructions for Apple Crumble Muffins

Step 1: Whip Up the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, blend flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.

Pour melted butter and mix until crumbly clusters form.

Set this delightful topping aside for later sprinkling.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Mix flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.

Using an electric mixer, cream brown sugar, granulated sugar, and butter in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Components

Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each.

Blend in sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Create Muffin Batter

Gradually fold in half the flour mixture, then add milk.

Mix in remaining flour mixture, stirring until just combined.

Gently fold diced apples into the batter.

Step 5: Prepare Muffin Tin

Line muffin tin with paper liners or grease cups.

Fill each cup three-quarters full with batter.

Sprinkle crumble topping generously over each muffin.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Bake for 20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool muffins in the pan briefly, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Moist Apple Crumble Muffins

• Pat diced apples dry with paper towels before adding to batter to reduce excess moisture and maintain a perfect texture.
• Sprinkle additional chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the crumble topping for extra crispiness and nutty flavor.
• Stir batter minimally when adding flour to keep muffins tender and avoid developing tough gluten strands.
• Swap regular apples with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a natural boost of sugary goodness without adding extra sugar.
• Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or freeze individually wrapped for up to a month to maintain freshness.

Apple Crumble Muffins Storage and Reheat Guide

• Store muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent them from drying out.
• Place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Wrap muffins in aluminum foil to prevent drying. Warm for 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method helps restore the original texture and brings back the delightful crumble topping.
• Reheat individual muffins for 15-20 seconds on medium power. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the muffins tough and chewy.

Apple Crumble Muffins Recipe

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4.5 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Irresistible Apple Crumble Muffins blend homemade comfort with sweet autumn flavors, creating a delightful breakfast or dessert treat. Cinnamon-spiced apples nestled in tender muffin batter and topped with a buttery crumble will make you crave another bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (100 g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk, room temperature

Sugars and Sweeteners:

• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Additional Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Create the crumble topping by whisking flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Pour melted butter into the mixture and blend until small, textured clumps form. Reserve this crunchy topping for later use.
2. Sift flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt into a medium bowl. In a separate large bowl, cream brown sugar, granulated sugar, and butter using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
3. Incorporate eggs individually into the sugar-butter mixture, ensuring thorough blending after each addition. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until the batter becomes smooth and creamy.
4. Gradually fold half the flour mixture into wet ingredients, mixing minimally. Add milk and briefly combine. Introduce remaining flour mixture, stirring until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing. Gently fold diced apples throughout the batter, ensuring even distribution.
5. Prepare a muffin tin by lining with paper cups or lightly greasing. Portion batter evenly, filling each cup approximately three-quarters full. Generously sprinkle the reserved crumble topping across each muffin.
6. Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake muffins for 20 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick. When inserted, it should emerge with minimal moist crumbs. Allow muffins to rest in the pan briefly before transferring to a wire rack for complete cooling.

Notes

• Make sure butter is truly room temperature for optimal mixing and fluffiness in the batter.
• Dice apples into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution and consistent texture throughout muffins.
• Use a light hand when mixing dry and wet ingredients to prevent tough, dense muffins – stop stirring as soon as ingredients are just combined.
• Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt or applesauce for a healthier, lower-fat alternative without compromising moisture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 16 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 31 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg