Name: Apple Spice Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Muffins:; 2 1/2 cups apples (finely chopped, use Granny Smith and Gala); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1/2 cup white sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed); 2 large eggs (at room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For the Streusel Topping:; 1/3 cup brown sugar (lightly packed); 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 tablespoons old-fashioned oats; 2/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup melted butter

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Apple spice muffins are the perfect combination of autumn flavors and comforting sweetness. With finely chopped apples mixed into a moist, cinnamon-spiced batter and topped with a crunchy, sweet streusel, these muffins are a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. The warm aroma of cinnamon and apples filling your kitchen will make these muffins an irresistible favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These apple spice muffins offer the ideal balance of soft, moist interior with a sweet and crispy topping. The combination of Granny Smith and Gala apples creates a perfect blend of tartness and sweetness, while the cinnamon and nutmeg infuse each bite with a warm, spiced flavor. The streusel topping adds an extra layer of texture and sweetness that makes these muffins truly indulgent. Whether you’re baking for yourself or a crowd, these muffins will be a hit every time! Apple Spice Muffins

Ingredients

For the Muffins:

2 1/2 cups apples (finely chopped, use Granny Smith and Gala)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
2 large eggs (at room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping:

1/3 cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons old-fashioned oats
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup melted butter

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

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray a muffin tin with cooking spray or line with muffin liners.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a separate mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth and well-mixed.
Stir in finely chopped apples and gradually add the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Set aside.
For the Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, oats, and flour. Drizzle in the melted butter and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly.
To Assemble: Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the muffin batter.
Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the muffins cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.
Nutty Apple Spice Muffins: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and flavor.
Extra Spicy: Add more cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of ground ginger to enhance the spiciness of the muffins.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover apple spice muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Reheating: Reheat muffins in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to warm them up.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen apples in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen apples. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the muffin batter.

2. Can I make the streusel topping ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the streusel topping ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just sprinkle it over the batter when you’re ready to bake.

3. Can I use a different type of apple for these muffins?

While Granny Smith and Gala apples work well, you can experiment with other apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn, depending on your preference for sweetness or tartness.

4. How do I know when the muffins are done?

The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick is wet with batter, bake for a few more minutes.

5. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to make 24 muffins. Just ensure you have a larger muffin tin or bake in batches.

6. Can I add other fruits to the muffins?

Yes! You can add raisins, cranberries, or chopped pears to the muffin batter for a fruitier twist.

7. Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, you can freeze the muffins! Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months, and reheat before serving.

8. How do I make these muffins even fluffier?

To make the muffins fluffier, make sure you don’t overmix the batter. Mix until just combined to prevent them from becoming dense.

9. Can I use a hand mixer to make the batter?

Yes, a hand mixer will work fine for the batter. Just be careful not to overbeat it.

10. Can I use a mini muffin tin instead of a regular one?

Absolutely! For mini muffins, reduce the baking time to around 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Conclusion

These apple spice muffins are the perfect blend of sweet, spiced, and comforting flavors. With a soft, moist interior, a crumbly streusel topping, and the natural sweetness of apples, they’re a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or as a delicious snack later on, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation!