Apple Muffins with Crumb Topping

If you love warm, spiced apple flavors with a buttery, crunchy topping, these Apple Muffins with Crumb Topping are the perfect treat! Soft and moist on the inside with a golden, cinnamon-sugar crumble on top, these muffins make the best breakfast, snack, or dessert. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy, bakery-style experience right at home!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Moist & Soft – Thanks to fresh apples and yogurt.
• Irresistible Crumb Topping – Adds a buttery crunch to every bite.
• Easy to Make – No fancy equipment needed, just mix and bake!
• Great for Meal Prep – These muffins store well for busy mornings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Muffins:

• All-purpose flour (2 cups) – The base for a fluffy texture.
• Baking powder (1 ½ tsp) – Helps the muffins rise beautifully.
• Baking soda (½ tsp) – Gives a light, airy texture.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances all the flavors.
• Cinnamon (1 ½ tsp) – The key to warm, spiced flavor.
• Nutmeg (½ tsp) – Optional, but adds depth to the spice.
• Apples (1 ½ cups, peeled & finely chopped) – Use sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji.
• Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted) – Keeps the muffins rich and tender.
• Brown sugar (¾ cup) – Adds a caramel-like sweetness.
• Granulated sugar (¼ cup) – Balances the flavor.
• Eggs (2 large) – Helps bind everything together.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the sweetness.
• Plain yogurt or sour cream (½ cup) – Keeps the muffins extra moist.

For the Crumb Topping:

• All-purpose flour (½ cup) – Helps create the crumbly texture.
• Brown sugar (¼ cup) – Sweetens the topping.
• Cinnamon (½ tsp) – Adds a warm flavor.
• Cold unsalted butter (4 tbsp, cubed) – Helps create the perfect crunchy topping.

Tools You’ll Need

• Muffin tin (12-count)
• Muffin liners (optional)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Fork or pastry cutter for the crumb topping

How to Make Apple Muffins with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with liners or grease it with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the topping. Add the cold cubed butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to blend until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 4: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and yogurt until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples without overmixing.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over each muffin.

Step 7: Bake & Cool

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy warm with a pat of butter.
• Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
• Serve with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea.

Tips for the Best Apple Muffins

• Use Fresh Apples – The juicier the apples, the moister the muffins.
• Don’t Overmix – Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Chill the Crumb Topping – Keeping the butter cold helps maintain a crumbly texture.
• Make Mini Muffins – Use a mini muffin tin and bake for 12–14 minutes.

Storing & Freezing

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps for up to a week. Warm muffins slightly before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes! Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a heartier texture.
What apples work best? Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith work great.
Can I make this without the crumb topping? Absolutely! They’ll still be delicious.

Conclusion

These Apple Muffins with Crumb Topping are the perfect balance of soft, moist apple goodness and crispy, cinnamon-sugar topping. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!

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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 250 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 180mg

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