If you’re looking for a bursting-with-flavor treat that’s simple to whip up, look no further than this Easy Apple Sour Cream Muffins Recipe. These muffins deliver a perfect balance of moistness and spice, where tender apple pieces mingle effortlessly with the tangy creaminess of sour cream. Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast bite or a comforting afternoon snack, these muffins make every moment feel special without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients are the stars of the show, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and warmth that make these muffins irresistible.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy but tender structure that holds the muffins together beautifully.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right level of sweetness to balance the tart apples and tangy sour cream.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings a delightful caramel note that deepens the flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the muffins rise perfectly without getting too dense.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with sour cream to create a light, fluffy crumb.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses a warm, comforting spice that pairs wonderfully with apples.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tanginess that sets these muffins apart.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins tender and moist for days.
- 1 large egg: Binds all the ingredients and enriches the batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the flavors and adds a lovely aromatic touch.
- 1 cup diced apples (peeled and chopped): Delivers juicy bursts of fresh apple in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar & 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (topping): Creates a sweet, slightly crunchy cinnamon sugar crust that’s simply addictive.
How to Make Easy Apple Sour Cream Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or generously grease it to ensure your muffins release effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This mix lays the flavorful foundation of your muffins.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together the sour cream, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This blend ensures moisture and richness throughout the muffins.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your muffins tender. Next, carefully fold in the diced apples, distributing them evenly for perfect fruitiness in each bite.
Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups
Spoon the batter into your prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. This gives them enough room to rise without spilling over.
Step 6: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Mix the tablespoon of granulated sugar with the cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar topping evenly over each muffin, giving them that extra special crunch and sweetness.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your tin in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know they are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Easy Apple Sour Cream Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can elevate your muffins to a delightful treat. Fresh apple slices on the side add a crisp contrast perfectly suited to the tender crumb.
Side Dishes
Pair these muffins with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a smear of butter for a simple yet satisfying accompaniment. A warm cup of coffee or tea turns the moment into a cozy, soul-soothing breakfast or snack.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try sandwiching sliced muffins with cream cheese or nut butter. Alternatively, crumble the muffins on top of vanilla ice cream as a rustic crumble topping that will wow your taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to retain their moistness and flavor.
Freezing
These muffins freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy warm muffins, pop them in a toaster oven or microwave for about 20 seconds. This revives the softness and brings back that just-baked freshness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples add tartness, while Fuji or Gala provide a sweeter, milder flavor. Choose your favorite apple to tailor the muffins to your taste.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, plain Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute that maintains the moistness and tanginess.
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, you can enjoy these muffins without gluten.
How do I prevent the apples from sinking?
Coating the diced apples lightly with flour before folding them into the batter helps them stay evenly suspended during baking.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even raisins add wonderful texture and flavor complements to this Easy Apple Sour Cream Muffins Recipe.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough how comforting and delightful these Easy Apple Sour Cream Muffins Recipe can be for any occasion. Their tender crumb, juicy apples, and subtle tang of sour cream create a perfect harmony that feels like a warm hug. Trust me, once you try making them, these muffins are going to become a beloved part of your baking repertoire!
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Easy Apple Sour Cream Muffins Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Apple Sour Cream Muffins are moist, tender, and filled with tender diced apples, enhanced by a hint of cinnamon and a sweet cinnamon sugar topping. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a delightful snack, these muffins combine the richness of sour cream with fresh apple pieces for a balanced, flavorful treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins and Topping
- 1 cup diced apples (peeled and chopped)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups well to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until thoroughly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the sour cream, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender. Fold in the diced apples carefully to distribute evenly through the batter.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow for rising.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the tablespoon of granulated sugar and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the tops of each muffin for a sweet, cinnamon crust.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins light and fluffy.
- Ensure apples are peeled and diced evenly to prevent soggy spots.
- Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a freshly baked taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
