Apple Cinnamon Streusel Muffins

These Apple Cinnamon Streusel Muffins are a deliciously cozy, fall-inspired treat that captures the comforting flavors of apple pie or apple crumble in muffin form. With tender, moist muffins filled with juicy apple pieces, a fragrant cinnamon-spiced batter, and a buttery, crumbly streusel topping, every bite is packed with warmth and sweetness. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a dessert, these muffins are sure to be a hit with friends and family!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Muffins:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup milk

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup chopped apples (about 1 medium apple)

For the Streusel Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup packed light brown sugar

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare Muffin Pan:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.

2. Prepare the Muffin Batter:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

• In a separate medium bowl, whisk the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until moistened—do not overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

• Gently fold in the chopped apples.

3. Make the Streusel Topping:

• In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

• Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Assemble the Muffins:

• Divide the muffin batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups.

• Sprinkle a generous amount of streusel topping over each muffin.

5. Bake the Muffins:

• Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

• Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Serve:

• Serve the muffins warm or at room temperature. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 muffins

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for an extra layer of warmth.

• Nutty Addition: Fold in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans into the muffin batter for added crunch.

• Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based milk and butter to make this recipe vegan.

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a warm oven for a few minutes for a fresh, warm muffin.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of apple?

Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji are best for baking. These apples hold their shape and provide the right balance of sweetness and tartness.

2. Can I use other fruits in these muffins?

Yes, you can substitute apples with other fruits like pears, berries, or peaches. Just make sure to adjust the quantity accordingly.

3. Can I make these muffins without the streusel topping?

While the streusel topping adds a delicious crunch and sweetness, you can omit it if you prefer a simpler muffin.

4. Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes! Let the muffins cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to enjoy.

5. Can I add a glaze to these muffins?

Yes, you can drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top of the muffins for an extra touch of sweetness.

6. Can I make the muffin batter ahead of time?

The batter is best used immediately after mixing, but you can prepare the dry ingredients ahead of time and store them in a sealed container for convenience.

7. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the batter?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar in the muffin batter, which will add a slight molasses flavor.

8. How can I make sure my muffins are light and fluffy?

Make sure not to overmix the batter. Mix just until combined, and be gentle when folding in the apples.

9. Can I make these muffins in a mini muffin pan?

Yes, you can make mini muffins by adjusting the baking time. Bake for 10-12 minutes, checking with a skewer to ensure they are done.

10. Can I use a hand mixer for this recipe?

While you can use a hand mixer, it’s best to mix the batter by hand to avoid overmixing and ensure light, fluffy muffins.

Conclusion

These Apple Cinnamon Streusel Muffins are a delicious and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their soft, moist interior, spiced apple filling, and sweet streusel topping, they taste just like a warm apple crumble in muffin form. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the cozy, fall-inspired flavors in every bite!

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