If you adore warm, cozy flavors wrapped up in a tender, sweet treat, then this Apple Crumble Muffins Recipe is going to become your new go-to comfort snack. Imagine biting into a fluffy muffin bursting with juicy apple chunks and topped with a buttery, cinnamon-scented crumble that adds the perfect crunch. These muffins are the ultimate blend of soft, moist cake and crumbly topping, delivering a delightful autumnal experience in every bite. Whether you’re making breakfast for the family or bringing a batch to your next gathering, these Apple Crumble Muffins Recipe will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Apple Crumble Muffins Recipe is simple but critical to achieving that perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and texture. Each component plays its part, from the tender flour base to the rich melted butter and tart diced apples, creating a muffin that’s nothing short of irresistible.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the soft, fluffy structure that holds the muffin together beautifully.
- ¾ cup light brown sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness and moisture to the crumble topping.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness in both the crumble and muffin batter for a clean finish.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warm spice flavor that perfectly complements the apples and crumble.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted): Brings richness and helps create a tender crumb texture.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and give the muffins lift and moistness.
- 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Adds fresh, tart bursts of apple flavor and texture in every bite.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and sweetness with a lovely vanilla warmth.
- ½ cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and contributes to a soft crumb.
How to Make Apple Crumble Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s perfectly hot when you’re ready to bake. Line a muffin tin with paper liners, which will help the muffins release easily and keep their shape perfectly after baking.
Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and the cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix with a fork or your fingers until you get a crumbly texture. This topping is the crowning glory of the muffins, adding that irresistible crunch and warm spice flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients for the Muffins
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, and ground cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients evenly helps your muffins rise beautifully and have an even spice throughout.
Step 4: Cream the Wet Ingredients
Using an electric mixer, cream together the sugars and butter until fluffy and light, which introduces air into the batter for perfect softness. Then add the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is combined and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add half the dry mix to your wet mixture, stirring gently, then pour in the milk and continue mixing. Fold in the remaining dry ingredients along with the diced apples, making sure they’re evenly distributed without overmixing, keeping those lovely apple chunks tender but intact.
Step 6: Fill and Top Muffin Cups
Spoon the batter into the lined muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising. Generously sprinkle the prepared crumble topping over each one so every bite has that crave-worthy crispness on top.
Step 7: Bake Until Perfect
Bake your muffins for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before serving so the flavors meld and the texture sets nicely.
How to Serve Apple Crumble Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, dust the cooled muffins with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. A small pat of softened butter melted on top also enhances the comforting flavors and adds richness with every bite.
Side Dishes
These muffins pair wonderfully with hot beverages like a spiced chai latte or classic coffee. For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad, balancing sweet and savory elements on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by serving these Apple Crumble Muffins Recipe in rustic baskets lined with a cheerful tea towel, perfect for brunch or picnics. Alternatively, split and toast them lightly before spreading with cinnamon honey butter for an afternoon treat that tastes fresh and indulgent.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them moist and fresh, ready to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
To save for later, freeze these muffins individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer-safe bag. They keep their flavor and texture wonderfully for up to three months when frozen properly.
Reheating
For a freshly baked taste, warm stored muffins in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. This refreshes the softness inside while restoring the delicious crumble crispness on top.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples in this Apple Crumble Muffins Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices for their tartness and firmness, Fuji or Gala apples work well too if you prefer a sweeter, softer bite.
Is it possible to make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but be sure it contains xanthan gum to help with texture and rise.
Can I add nuts to the crumble topping?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delicious crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples and cinnamon.
How long will these muffins stay fresh without refrigeration?
Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, these muffins stay fresh for about three days. Beyond that, refrigeration or freezing is recommended.
Can I make the crumble topping ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the crumble topping a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before using for the best texture and ease of sprinkling.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Apple Crumble Muffins Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and easy to make. It brings the flavors of fall into your kitchen year-round and is perfect for any occasion. Once you try baking these, they’ll soon become your cherished favorite to share with friends and family, warming hearts one bite at a time.
Print
Apple Crumble Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Apple Crumble Muffins are a delightful blend of tender, moist muffin batter packed with fresh diced apples and topped with a buttery cinnamon crumble. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, they combine the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon with a satisfying crumbly topping.
Ingredients
Muffin Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Crumble Topping
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare muffin tray. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to ensure the muffins do not stick and bake evenly.
- Make the crumble topping. In a medium bowl, combine ¾ cup flour, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Pour in melted butter and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly and fully coated. Set this aside for topping later.
- Mix dry ingredients for muffins. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Create the wet mixture. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the sugars and softened butter until the mixture is fluffy and light. Then add eggs one by one, followed by sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients and add apples. Gradually add half of the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, then pour in the milk and mix gently. Fold in the remaining dry ingredients and finally, incorporate the diced apples carefully to distribute them evenly without overmixing.
- Fill muffin cups and add crumble. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Generously sprinkle the crumble topping over each muffin to create a crunchy, sweet crust.
- Bake the muffins. Place the muffins in the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- To make sour cream substitute, use plain yogurt if unavailable.
- Do not overmix batter to keep muffins tender and light.
- Ensure the crumble topping is evenly distributed for the best crunchy texture.
- Muffins are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
