Apple crumble muffins are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. The combination of tender muffin texture and the rich flavor of cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a crunchy brown sugar crumble makes these muffins an irresistible choice for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch, enjoying them with your morning coffee, or packing them in lunchboxes, these Apple Crumble Muffins are sure to please everyone.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients
- Wet Ingredients
- Add-Ins
- How to Make Apple Crumble Muffins
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Make the Crumble
- Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
- Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups
- Step 7: Bake
- How to Serve Apple Crumble Muffins
- With Fresh Fruit
- With Spreads
- With Beverages
- As Part of a Brunch Spread
- How to Perfect Apple Crumble Muffins
- Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Muffins
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Apple Crumble Muffins
- Reheating Apple Crumble Muffins
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make Apple Crumble Muffins gluten-free?
- Can I use different types of apples?
- How can I customize my Apple Crumble Muffins?
- What is the best way to store leftover Apple Crumble Muffins?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these muffins up in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of cinnamon and diced apples creates a warm and comforting taste that everyone loves.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy these muffins for breakfast, a midday snack, or even dessert; they fit all occasions!
- Perfect for Fall: The use of fresh apples and spices makes this recipe ideal for cozy autumn days.
- Great for Meal Prep: These muffins store well, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Apple Crumble Muffins, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin tin
- Paper liners
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin tin: Ensures that your muffins bake evenly and hold their shape.
- Electric mixer: Saves time when creaming butter and sugars together for a fluffy texture.
Ingredients
Apple crumble muffins are tender and sweet muffins spiced with cinnamon and topped with a brown sugar crumble.
Dry Ingredients
- ¾ cup (93 g) all purpose flour
- ¼ cup (50 g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 4 tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups (250 g) all purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup (100 g) packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick or 113 g) unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt) (room temperature)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk (room temperature)
Add-Ins
- 1 ½ cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

How to Make Apple Crumble Muffins
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400° F. Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners. Set aside while you prepare the batter.
Step 2: Make the Crumble
In a medium bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
1. Combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and optional ground cinnamon.
2. Pour in melted butter.
3. Mix until small clumps form. Set aside the crumble mixture.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour,
2. Baking powder,
3. Salt,
4. Ground cinnamon.
Set this mixture aside as well.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together:
1. Brown sugar,
2. Granulated sugar,
3. Room temperature butter until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
5. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add half of the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients:
1. Mix just until combined.
2. Pour in milk; mix again.
3. Add remaining dry mixture; fold in diced apples by hand gently.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups
Pour batter into prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full:
1. Generously sprinkle crumble mixture over each muffin top using all of it.
Step 7: Bake
Place in preheated oven:
1. Bake at 400° F for about 20 minutes.
2. Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with few crumbs attached.
3. Allow muffins to cool in the pan for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious Apple Crumble Muffins!
How to Serve Apple Crumble Muffins
Apple crumble muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins can be paired with delightful accompaniments to enhance their flavor.
With Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Bananas – Fresh bananas complement the sweetness of the apple muffins.
- Berries – A mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a refreshing touch.
With Spreads
- Butter – A pat of butter melts beautifully into a warm muffin for extra richness.
- Cream Cheese – Spread cream cheese for a tangy contrast to the sweet muffin.
With Beverages
- Coffee – Enjoy your muffins with a hot cup of coffee for a perfect breakfast pairing.
- Tea – A soothing herbal tea balances the flavors and adds warmth.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Fruit Salad – Pairing with a light fruit salad brightens up your brunch table.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layering muffins with yogurt and granola creates a delicious parfait.
How to Perfect Apple Crumble Muffins
To achieve the best apple crumble muffins, follow these simple tips that ensure moistness and flavor in every bite.
- Use Fresh Apples – Fresh apples add moisture and natural sweetness. Choose Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
- Measure Ingredients Accurately – Precise measurements guarantee consistent results. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy if possible.
- Don’t Overmix Batter – Mix just until combined to keep muffins tender. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
- Cool Before Serving – Allow muffins to cool slightly before serving. This enhances their flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Spices – Adjust cinnamon and nutmeg levels based on your taste. Adding more spices can deepen the flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumble Muffins
Apple crumble muffins pair wonderfully with various side dishes, making them great for any meal occasion. Here are some tasty options to consider:
- Greek Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and pairs well with the muffin’s sweetness.
- Honey Butter – Sweet honey butter drizzled over warm muffins enhances their flavor perfectly.
- Maple Syrup – Pouring maple syrup over the muffins offers an indulgent touch that elevates breakfast.
- Oatmeal – A bowl of oatmeal alongside gives added fiber and nutrition to your meal.
- Cheese Platter – Pairing with mild cheeses like brie or gouda creates a delightful contrast in flavors.
- Chia Seed Pudding – Light and nutritious chia pudding is a healthy option that complements the sweetness of apple crumble muffins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Apple Crumble Muffins can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and dairy. Cold ingredients can result in uneven mixing and denser muffins.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins instead of light and fluffy ones.
- Neglecting to measure correctly: Use the right measuring tools for dry and wet ingredients. Incorrect measurements can affect the texture and flavor of your muffins.
- Skipping the crumble topping: The crumble adds texture and sweetness. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for that classic apple crumble flavor!
- Not checking for doneness: Use a toothpick to test your muffins. If it comes out with wet batter, they need more time in the oven.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store muffins in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and prevents drying out.
- They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Apple Crumble Muffins
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Crumble Muffins
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place muffins on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time for about 15-20 seconds. This method is quick but may make them slightly soggy.
- Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Apple Crumble Muffins gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it’s suitable for baking.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes! Feel free to mix different apple varieties like Fuji or Braeburn for added flavor.
How can I customize my Apple Crumble Muffins?
Add nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to enhance flavor and texture.
What is the best way to store leftover Apple Crumble Muffins?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
Apple Crumble Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for breakfast or a snack. You can easily customize the recipe by adding nuts or spices according to your taste. Give these muffins a try; you won’t be disappointed!
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Apple Crumble Muffins
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 muffins 1x
Description
Apple Crumble Muffins are a scrumptious blend of soft, tender muffins infused with cinnamon-spiced diced apples and topped with a crunchy brown sugar crumble. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, these muffins are perfect for any occasion. With their delightful flavor and comforting texture, they’re bound to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and great for meal prep, Apple Crumble Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile enough to enjoy throughout the week. Whether paired with coffee in the morning or served at brunch, these muffins will bring warmth and joy to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a medium bowl, mix dry ingredients for the crumble: flour, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in melted butter and mix until crumbly; set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, cream together sugars and butter using an electric mixer until fluffy. Add eggs, sour cream, and vanilla; mix until combined.
- Gradually add half of the dry mixture into the wet ingredients followed by milk. Fold in remaining dry mixture along with diced apples.
- Fill muffin cups three-quarters full and sprinkle crumble topping generously.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg