Nothing beats the cozy comfort of homemade muffins, especially when they’re bursting with tender apples and the warm spice of cinnamon. This Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe is a delightful treat that brings together simple ingredients to create moist, flavorful muffins topped with a sweet streusel and finished with a light glaze. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a comforting snack, or a crowd-pleasing addition to your next brunch, these muffins deliver all the cozy vibes and deliciousness you could hope for.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe lies in its straightforward but carefully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a vital role in creating the ideal muffin texture, taste, and aroma – from the crisp apples that add moisture and freshness to the cinnamon-spiced streusel topping that delivers a crispy contrast.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and softness to the muffins.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the apples.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures your muffins rise beautifully, making them light and fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and a signature flavor that perfectly complements the apples.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor with a subtle hint of sweetness and aroma.
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and chopped apples: The star ingredient that keeps each bite juicy and fresh.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel): Helps create that crumbly, delicious topping.
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (for streusel): Adds a molasses note and sweetness to the streusel.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for streusel): Echoes the muffin’s cinnamon flavor in the topping.
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter (for streusel): Gives the streusel its buttery crunch.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Adds sweetness and a pretty finish.
- 1 to 2 teaspoons milk (for glaze): Adjusts glaze consistency for drizzling.
How to Make Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze — this small step saves you a lot of fuss later on.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening and spices throughout the batter for consistent flavor and rise.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat together the 2 eggs, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 1/2 cup milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This mixture adds moisture and richness, creating the perfect contrast to the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together and Add Apples
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined; don’t overmix or the muffins might turn out dense. Then fold in the peeled and chopped apples, which lend juiciness and a natural sweetness with every bite.
Step 5: Prepare the Streusel Topping
Mix 1/2 cup flour, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter in a small bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until crumbly. This streusel adds a delightful crunchy layer that contrasts deliciously with the soft muffins.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups and Add Streusel
Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups. Sprinkle the streusel topping generously on each muffin for that perfect crisp finish that makes these muffins stand out.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Done
Bake for 20 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer them to a wire rack to finish cooling and avoid sogginess.
Step 8: Drizzle the Sweet Glaze
Whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1 to 2 teaspoons of milk until smooth and slightly runny. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins for an extra touch of sweetness and a pretty presentation.
How to Serve Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe beauties, try garnishing with a light dusting of cinnamon sugar or a few thin apple slices on top for a fresh look and extra apple flavor.
Side Dishes
These muffins pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee. For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a dollop of Greek yogurt with honey.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving muffins doesn’t have to be boring! Arrange them on a rustic wooden board with small ramekins of cream cheese spread, honey, or jam. For a party, set up a muffin bar with toppings like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even a cinnamon sugar sprinkle for guests to customize their own.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh without drying out.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze muffins individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight at room temperature or gently warm before serving.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the muffins in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds. This brings back that freshly baked warmth and softness you crave.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various apple varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for extra sweetness. Just make sure to peel and chop them finely for even distribution.
Is it possible to make these muffins gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I skip the streusel topping?
Yes, the muffins will still be tasty without the streusel, but that crumbly topping adds a lovely texture contrast that we highly recommend not missing out on!
How can I make these muffins dairy-free?
Swap out the butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine and use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk. The muffins will still taste amazing.
What is the best way to ensure the muffins stay moist?
Don’t overmix the batter and be sure to fold in the apples carefully. Also, avoid overbaking by checking with a toothpick closely at the 20-minute mark.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a warm, inviting treat that feels like a hug in every bite, this Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s simple to make, uses wholesome ingredients, and delivers mouthwatering results that will have everyone asking for seconds. So grab those apples and get baking — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins Recipe
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins are a delightful treat combining tender apples and warm cinnamon in a moist, buttery muffin topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel and a sweet powdered sugar glaze. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, they bake quickly and are simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Muffin Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and chopped apples
Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter
Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 teaspoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat 2 eggs, then whisk in 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 1/2 cup milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep muffins tender. Fold in the 1 1/2 cups peeled and chopped apples evenly.
- Prepare Streusel: In another bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the 12 prepared muffin cups. Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over each muffin.
- Bake Muffins: Bake for 20 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make Glaze and Drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1 to 2 teaspoons milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg to the batter.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweet and tartness.
- Ensure the butter in the streusel is cold for a crumbly topping texture.
- The glaze is optional but adds an appealing sweetness and shine.
- Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
