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Apple Cinnamon Streusel Muffins

Irresistibly Moist Apple Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe

These Apple Cinnamon Streusel Muffins offer a delightful blend of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a buttery crumb topping, perfect for breakfast or a cozy treat.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Muffins
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure; swap with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 0.5 cups granulated sugar Adds sweetness; brown sugar deepens the flavor.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Helps the muffins rise; ensure it's fresh for the best results.
  • 0.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon Enhances the apple flavor; freshly ground gives a stronger taste.
  • 0.25 teaspoons salt Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors; critical for taste.
  • 1 large egg Binds everything together and adds moisture; can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan option.
  • 0.5 cups milk Keeps the batter moist; any non-dairy milk works for lactose-free muffins.
  • 0.25 cups unsalted butter, melted Contributes to the richness; coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds aroma and a flavor depth; vanilla bean paste intensifies the flavor.
  • 1 cup chopped apples Provides natural sweetness and moisture; mixing sweet and tart apples is ideal.
For the Streusel Topping
  • 0.5 cups all-purpose flour Creates the streusel texture; no substitutions needed.
  • 0.25 cups packed light brown sugar Adds sweetness and depth; dark brown sugar offers a richer flavor.
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon Enhances the topping's flavor; can be omitted for a plainer taste.
  • 0.25 cups unsalted butter cold and cut into small pieces; adds that crumbly texture; margarine works for a dairy-free option.

Equipment

  • Muffin tin
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • spatula
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of packed light brown sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Cut in ¼ cup of cold, small pieces of unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a muffin tin.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix together ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add in ½ cup of milk, stirring gently until just combined.
  5. Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients, gently folding them together until just combined. Fold in 1 cup of chopped apples.
  6. Evenly divide the muffin batter among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Sprinkle the streusel topping over each muffin and press it down slightly.
  7. Bake for 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C), then reduce to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5-10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Optional: Whisk together powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and enough milk for glaze consistency, then drizzle over cooled muffins.

Nutrition

Serving: 1muffinCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Avoid overmixing to ensure fluffy muffins. Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter. Test for doneness with a toothpick.

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