These Moist Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins are the perfect combination of soft, fluffy muffins and a sweet, crunchy crumb topping. Packed with fresh apple chunks and warm cinnamon, they’re ideal for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor: Each bite is filled with the sweetness of apples and the comforting warmth of cinnamon.
Perfect Texture: Soft and moist muffins complemented by a buttery crumb topping.
Easy to Make: Straightforward steps and ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Versatile: Great for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy evening treat with tea.
Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

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

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Baking powder
Ground cinnamon
Salt
Milk
Unsalted butter (melted)
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Fresh apples (peeled and diced)
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

For the Crumb Topping

All-purpose flour
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter (cold, cubed)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
Prepare the Crumb Topping: In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to create a crumbly texture. Set aside.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Make the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.
Fill the Muffin Tin: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over each muffin.
Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the muffins cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for extra sweetness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes 12 muffins
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Add Nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Use Different Fruits: Substitute apples with pears or add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Spice It Up: Add nutmeg or allspice for a deeper flavor profile.
Lighter Option: Replace half of the butter with applesauce for a lower-fat version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: Wrap individual muffins in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm muffins in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, any firm and slightly tart apple, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji, works well.

2. How do I prevent the crumb topping from sinking?

Ensure the topping mixture is crumbly and press it gently into the batter before baking.

3. Can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Yes, substitute milk with almond milk or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative.

4. What if I don’t have paper liners?

You can grease the muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Double all the ingredients and bake in two batches if needed.

6. How can I tell when the muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the muffins are ready.

7. Can I omit the crumb topping?

Yes, but the crumb topping adds a delightful texture and sweetness.

8. What’s the best way to dice the apples?

Peel the apples, core them, and chop them into small, uniform pieces for even distribution.

9. Can I add a glaze instead of powdered sugar?

Yes, a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk drizzled over the top is delicious.

10. Why did my muffins turn out dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense muffins. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Conclusion

These Moist Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins are a delicious and comforting treat, perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or reheated with a cup of coffee, they’re sure to be a family favorite. Try out the variations to make them your own and savor the warm, cozy flavors!