What type of apples are best for making apple crumb muffins?

Firmer apples work best for apple crumb muffins to prevent a mushy texture. Popular choices include Granny Smith for a tart flavor and Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness. You can use just one variety or a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor. Using fresh, crisp apples ensures the muffins have chunks of fruit that hold their shape during baking.

Can I substitute yogurt or sour cream in the apple crumb muffin recipe?

Yes, you can substitute yogurt or sour cream with plain yogurt (regular or Greek) or sour cream interchangeably. If these aren’t available, unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana can be used, although they may slightly change the texture. These ingredients add moisture and tenderness, making the muffins soft and moist.

How do I get tall, rounded tops on my apple crumb muffins?

To achieve tall, rounded muffin tops, use thick batter and fill the muffin cups to the very top. Start baking at a high temperature (around 425°F or 220°C) for 5 minutes to create oven spring, then lower the heat to bake through. This method encourages the batter to rise quickly and form a domed shape.

Is the crumb topping necessary for apple crumb muffins?

The crumb topping is optional but highly recommended as it adds a crunchy, buttery texture and enhances the apple and cinnamon flavors. It’s simple to make with flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon—ingredients often already in the muffin batter. It creates a satisfying contrast to the soft muffin beneath.

How should I store and freeze apple crumb muffins for best freshness?

After baking, allow the muffins to cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the muffins without the crumb topping or icing for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator, then add any topping or icing after thawing to preserve texture and flavor.

Apple Crumb Muffins Recipe With Crispy Topping In 2024

Name: Apple Crumb Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/3 cup packed light or dark brown sugar; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1 3/4 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 packed light or dark brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1/2 cup yogurt or sour cream, room temperature; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1/4 cup milk (any kind), room temperature; 1 1/2 cups chopped apples (about 2 medium apples, cut into 1/2-inch chunks); 1 cup confectioners’ sugar; 3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (adjust for thinner consistency); 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Description

🍎 These Apple Cinnamon Muffins with a Crispy Crumb Topping bring a delightful combination of sweet apples and warm cinnamon in a soft, tender muffin.
🌟 The crunchy crumb topping adds texture and flavor, making these muffins perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

1/3 cup packed light or dark brown sugar

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2/3 cup all-purpose flour

1 3/4 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 packed light or dark brown sugar

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, room temperature

1/2 cup yogurt or sour cream, room temperature

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1/4 cup milk (any kind), room temperature

1 1/2 cups chopped apples (about 2 medium apples, cut into 1/2-inch chunks)

1 cup confectioners’ sugar

3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (adjust for thinner consistency)

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

1-Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C): Prepare muffin pans with nonstick spray or liners to get everything ready for the batter.

2-For the crumb topping, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon, then stir in melted butter and gently fold in flour using a fork. Set it aside for later.

3-In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to ensure even distribution.

4-Cream butter and sugars with a mixer until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes, then add eggs, yogurt or sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until mostly creamy.

5-On low speed, add the dry ingredients and milk, beating until fully combined, then fold in the chopped apples carefully.

6-Fill muffin cups to the top with batter, spoon the crumb topping over each one, and gently press it to adhere.

7-Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 5 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

8-For the optional icing, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, cream or milk, and vanilla extract, then drizzle over the warm or cooled muffins.

Notes

🍏 Use firmer apple varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady for best texture.
🌡️ Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and tall muffin tops.
🔥 Baking at a high temperature initially helps muffins rise quickly and evenly.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 23 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 muffin
Calories: 280 kcal
Sugar: 20 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 4 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: Apple Cinnamon Muffins, Crumb Topping, Morning Muffins, Spiced Muffins