What type of apples should I use for apple crumb muffins?

For apple crumb muffins, it’s best to use firm and crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady. These varieties hold their shape well during baking and add a nice tartness or sweetness depending on the type. Avoid soft or mealy apples, as they tend to break down too much and make the muffin texture soggy.

Can I substitute yogurt with sour cream in the muffin batter?

Yes, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream in the muffin batter without affecting the texture much. Both add moisture and tenderness to the muffins. Choose based on what you have available or your flavor preference, as sour cream has a richer taste, while yogurt is slightly tangier.

Why should ingredients be at room temperature before mixing the muffin batter?

Using room temperature ingredients like butter, eggs, and milk helps the batter mix more evenly and smoothly. This prevents the batter from curdling and promotes better air incorporation, resulting in muffins that are tender and have an even crumb.

How does the high initial baking temperature help the muffins?

Starting the baking at a high temperature for 5 minutes creates a quick rise in the batter, producing tall, domed muffin tops. After this initial burst, lowering the oven temperature helps the muffins bake through evenly without burning the tops.

Can apple crumb muffins be frozen and how should I store them?

Yes, baked and fully cooled apple crumb muffins freeze well for up to 3 months. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. For best taste, freeze without any icing or crumb topping and add those fresh after thawing. Defrost muffins overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temperature.

Apple Crumb Muffins Recipe With Crunchy Cinnamon Topping

Name: Apple Crumb Muffins
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup light or dark brown sugar; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup light or dark brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 cup plain yogurt or sour cream; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk (any kind); About 2 medium apples, chopped (approximately 1 1/2 to 2 cups); 1 cup confectioners’ sugar; 2 to 3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk; 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Description

🍏 These Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins bring warm spices and fresh apple pieces together for a comforting treat bursting with flavor.
🌟 The crunchy crumb topping adds delightful texture contrast, making these muffins perfect for breakfast or snack time.

Ingredients

Scale

1/4 cup light or dark brown sugar

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1/2 cup light or dark brown sugar

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 cup plain yogurt or sour cream

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup milk (any kind)

About 2 medium apples, chopped (approximately 1 1/2 to 2 cups)

1 cup confectioners’ sugar

2 to 3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

1-Preheat: the oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare muffin tins with liners or nonstick spray to avoid sticking.

2-Make the crumb topping: by mixing 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon; stir in 3 tablespoons melted butter, then add 1/3 cup flour, keeping it crumbly.

3-In a large bowl, whisk together the dry muffin ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.

4-Cream 1/2 cup butter and both sugars together with a mixer until smooth, then add 2 large eggs, 1 cup yogurt or sour cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; beat until mostly creamy.

5-Gradually add the dry ingredients and 1/2 cup milk to the wet mixture on low speed until just combined, then fold in the chopped apples for even distribution.

6-Fill muffin cups to the top with batter, sprinkle the crumb topping over each and gently press down.

7-Bake at 425°F for 5 minutes, then reduce to 350°F without opening the oven, and bake for another 15-18 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

8-Cool muffins in the pan briefly, then transfer to a wire rack.

Notes

🍎 Use thick batter and fill muffin cups fully for taller tops.
🔥 The initial high temperature jumpstarts rise before reducing heat for even baking.
🍏 Choose firm apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for texture.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 muffin
Calories: 300 kcal
Sugar: 24 g
Sodium: 180 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 4 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: Apple Muffins, Cinnamon Muffins, Crumb Topping, Warm Spices