Apple Muffins with Crumb Topping

Apple Muffins with Crumb Topping are one of those baked goods that feel like a warm hug on a chilly morning. They combine the sweet and tart flavor of apples with a crunchy, buttery topping that makes every bite a little celebration. If you’ve ever wondered how to get that perfect crumbly top or what kind of apples work best, I’ve got you covered.

Why You Should Try Apple Muffins with Crumb Topping

Honestly, these muffins are the perfect balance of moist and crumbly. The apples keep the muffins juicy, while the crumb topping adds a satisfying crunch that makes your taste buds smile. Plus, they’re fantastic for breakfast, snacks, or even a quick dessert when you’re in a pinch.

Do you ever get bored of plain muffins? Adding apples and a crumb topping changes the whole game. It feels like a mini dessert disguised as a breakfast treat. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself baking these more often than you planned.

Variations I’ve Tried

I’ve played around with this recipe quite a bit. Here are a few twists that worked well:

• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Adding a pinch of nutmeg along with cinnamon gives the muffins a cozy, spiced flavor.
• Walnuts or Pecans: Toss some chopped nuts into the crumb topping for an extra crunch and nuttiness.
• Caramel Drizzle: After baking, drizzle a little caramel sauce on top for a sweet surprise.
• Different Apples: Granny Smith apples add tartness, while Fuji or Gala apples bring more sweetness. Mixing them up keeps things interesting.

Ever thought about tossing in some raisins or dried cranberries? I did once, and it added a nice chewy texture, but it’s totally optional.

Adaly Kandice

Apple Muffins with Crumb Topping

Delicious apple muffins topped with a crunchy crumb topping, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 12

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups peeled and chopped apples

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter cold and cut into cubes
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped apples gently.
6. Spoon batter evenly into the muffin tin.
7. To make crumb topping, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then cut in butter until mixture is crumbly.
8. Sprinkle crumb topping evenly over each muffin.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Use tart apples for best flavor. Do not overmix batter to ensure muffins stay tender. Crumb topping adds a crunchy texture that complements the soft muffin.

Serving Ideas for Apple Muffins with Crumb Topping

These muffins shine on their own, but you can also:

• Serve them warm with a pat of butter melting on top.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy morning treat.
• Slice in half and spread some cream cheese for a tangy contrast.
• Offer them at brunch alongside fresh fruit and yogurt.

Ever tried them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? It’s like apple pie in muffin form!

Helpful Tips for Apple Muffins with Crumb Topping

Here are some quick tips from my kitchen to yours:

• Use firm apples so they hold their shape and don’t turn mushy.
• Don’t skip chilling the butter for the crumb topping; it’s what gives that perfect crunchy texture.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to keep muffins tender.
• If you want extra moist muffins, add a tablespoon or two of applesauce.
• Keep an eye on baking time; ovens vary, and you don’t want dry muffins.

Leftovers and Storage

If you have any muffins left (which is rare in my house), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.

To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm them in the oven for a few minutes. The crumb topping might lose some crunch after reheating, but the flavor stays amazing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using apples that are too soft or watery; they can make the batter soggy.
• Overmixing the batter, which leads to tough muffins.
• Forgetting to chill the butter for the crumb topping, resulting in a less crumbly texture.
• Not greasing the muffin tin or using liners, which can cause sticking.
• Baking at too high a temperature and burning the crumb topping before the muffins cook through.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 22 g

These numbers can vary slightly depending on apple variety and exact ingredient brands, but it gives you a good idea of what you’re enjoying with each bite.