Go Back
- 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1 tablespoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon For these muffins, I always start with the dry ingredients. All-purpose flour gives the muffins a nice structure. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder and baking soda help them rise. Salt enhances all the flavors, and ground cinnamon brings that warm spice we love. - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 2 large eggs, at room temperature - 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature Next, I move on to the wet ingredients. Vanilla extract gives a lovely aroma. Melted unsalted butter adds richness. Eggs bind everything together and add moisture. Buttermilk makes the muffins tender and fluffy, so make sure it’s at room temperature. - 1 1/2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced - 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts (optional) I always choose fresh apples for flavor and texture. They keep the muffins moist and add sweetness. If you like crunch, mix in walnuts. They add a lovely texture and nutty taste. - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened The streusel topping is the best part! It adds a sweet, crunchy layer on top. Combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon with softened butter. You’ll want it to look like coarse crumbs. This topping bakes up perfectly golden and crispy. With these ingredients, you can create delicious apple cinnamon streusel muffins that will impress anyone! 1. Preheat the oven and prepare muffin tins: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly. This helps the muffins come out easily after baking. 2. Prepare the streusel topping: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Then add 1/4 cup of softened butter. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. Set this aside for later. 3. Mix dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately: In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Make sure everything is fluffy and well combined. 4. Combine wet and dry mixtures: In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of melted butter, 2 large eggs, 1 cup of buttermilk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. A few small lumps are okay. 5. Fold in apples and walnuts: Gently add 1 1/2 cups of diced apples and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts (if using) to the batter. Carefully fold them in without overmixing. This helps keep the muffins light and fluffy. 6. Fill muffin cups: Use a scoop or spoon to fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full. This gives the muffins space to rise nicely. 7. Add streusel topping: Sprinkle a generous amount of your prepared streusel topping over each muffin. This will create a crispy layer when baked. 8. Bake and cool muffins: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check if they are done by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. - Measuring Flour Accurately: Use a spoon to scoop flour into your measuring cup. Avoid packing it down. Level it off with a straight edge for precision. This will help keep your muffins light and fluffy. - Preventing Overmixing the Batter: When mixing wet and dry ingredients, stir gently. Stop mixing when you see small lumps. Overmixing can make muffins tough and chewy. - Keeping Apples from Browning: Toss the diced apples in a little lemon juice. This keeps them fresh and bright. Plus, it adds a hint of flavor to your muffins. - Best Ways to Enjoy: Serve the muffins warm for the best taste. They pair well with breakfast or as an afternoon snack. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. - Pairing with Beverages or Toppings: Enjoy these muffins with a cup of coffee or tea. For toppings, try a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. Both add a tasty twist. - Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and buttermilk helps the batter mix evenly. This means your muffins will bake more uniformly and rise perfectly. - Knowing When Muffins Are Fully Baked: Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your muffins are ready. This way, you avoid under or overbaking. {{image_4}} You can change the taste of your muffins by adding different nuts or spices. Try pecans or hazelnuts for a new twist. You can also add spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth. Using other types of fruit is a fun option too. Blueberries or mashed bananas can replace apples. Each choice brings a unique flavor and texture to your muffins. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour. This swap keeps the muffins light and fluffy. You can also add a bit of xanthan gum to help with texture. For vegan substitutions, replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of buttermilk. These changes make the muffins plant-based but still tasty. In fall, add pumpkin puree to the batter for a cozy flavor. Mix in pumpkin pie spice for that festive touch. During winter, try adding dried cranberries or chopped pecans. These ingredients give your muffins a seasonal flair and a burst of flavor. Store your muffins at room temperature in an airtight container. Use parchment paper or a paper towel to help keep them fresh. This method keeps them soft for about two to three days. Avoid refrigeration, as it can dry them out. For long-term storage, freeze the muffins. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, unwrap the muffin and place it in the microwave for about 20 seconds. You can also heat them in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method keeps the muffins moist and brings back their fresh taste. Muffins last different lengths of time based on how you store them: - At room temperature: 2-3 days. - In the freezer: Up to 3 months. - In the fridge: About 1 week, but they may dry out. By following these tips, you can enjoy your apple cinnamon streusel muffins at their best! Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can use whole wheat flour. This will change the texture slightly. The muffins may be denser and have a nuttier flavor. Start by using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for best results. How do I prevent my muffins from sinking? To avoid sinking, do not overmix the batter. Overmixing develops gluten, which can cause the muffins to collapse. Make sure your baking powder is fresh. Also, fill muffin cups only two-thirds full. What's the best way to ensure my muffins are fluffy? Use room temperature ingredients. This helps the batter mix better. Make sure to measure your flour correctly, using the spoon-and-level method. Also, avoid overmixing to keep the batter light. Can I make the batter ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead. Keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just stir gently before filling the muffin cups. What can I do if my streusel topping is too crumbly? If your streusel is too crumbly, add a bit more softened butter. Mix it in slowly until it reaches the right texture. You want it to hold together but still be crumbly. What can I replace buttermilk with? You can use milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice. For one cup of buttermilk, add one tablespoon of vinegar to a cup of milk. Let it sit for five minutes before using. Can I use less sugar without affecting the recipe? You can reduce the sugar slightly, but it may affect sweetness and moisture. Try cutting the sugar by one-quarter first. Taste the batter to see if it needs more sweetness. We covered all the essential steps to make delicious Apple Cinnamon Streusel Muffins. From choosing the right ingredients to tips for the perfect bake, you have the tools you need. Remember, the key is in the details, like accurate measurements and knowing when to stop mixing. Feel free to get creative with flavors and adjust for dietary needs. These muffins are great fresh or stored for later. Enjoy baking and savoring your muffins!

Apple Cinnamon Streusel Muffins

Indulge in the warm and inviting flavors of Heavenly Cinnamon-Swirled Apple Streusel Muffins! This delightful recipe features a perfect blend of fresh apples, fluffy batter, and a crunchy streusel topping that will have everyone coming back for more. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a dozen muffins that are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Click through to discover the full recipe and elevate your baking game today!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus additional for dusting)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature

1 1/2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (approximately 2 medium-sized apples)

1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts (optional but recommended for crunch)

For the Streusel Topping:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or lightly greasing it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Streusel Topping: In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Add the softened butter, using a fork or your fingers to mix it until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set this delightful topping aside.

      Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon until they are fully combined and fluffy.

        Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. Make sure the butter is cool enough to prevent cooking the eggs.

          Mix Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir with a spatula just until combined, being careful not to overmix. It’s perfectly fine if there are a few small lumps in the batter.

            Fold in Apples and Nuts: Gently fold the diced apples and walnuts (if using) into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture without overmixing.

              Fill Muffin Cups: Using a scoop or spoon, fill each muffin cup with batter, filling them approximately two-thirds full. This allows room for the muffins to rise beautifully.

                Add Streusel Topping: Generously sprinkle the prepared streusel topping over each muffin, allowing it to form a nice layer on top that will become deliciously crispy during baking.

                  Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

                    Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40-45 minutes | Servings: 12 muffins

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve these muffins warm or at room temperature, dusted lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board alongside a small bowl of caramel sauce for drizzling or a dollop of fluffy whipped cream. Enjoy each bite of this cozy treat!