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Apple Cinnamon Muffins with Streusel Topping

These apple cinnamon muffins feature tender crumb with a crispy, caramelized streusel topping, combining baked apples and warm spices. The muffins are baked until golden and have a moist interior complemented by a crunchy crust on top, creating a harmonious balance of textures.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 medium apples peeled and grated
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup old fashioned oats
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter cold, cubed
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Muffin tin
  • Paper muffin liners
  • Grater
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners for easy removal.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined. This creates the dry base for your muffins.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and then stir in the milk and melted butter to create a smooth wet mixture.
  4. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture just until combined—be careful not to overmix, as this keeps the muffins tender.
  5. Stir in the grated apples, distributing them evenly throughout the batter. The apples add moisture and natural sweetness.
  6. In a small bowl, prepare the streusel topping by combining cold, cubed butter, brown sugar, oats, flour, and chopped nuts if using. Use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some larger pieces.
  7. Spoon the muffin batter evenly into each muffin cup, filling about two-thirds full for a good rise and nice height.
  8. Sprinkle the generous crumbles of streusel topping over each muffin, pressing slightly so they adhere and form a crispy layer during baking.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Remove the muffins from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack. Let them cool for at least 10 minutes to set the crumb and enjoy their crispy top.
  11. Serve warm or at room temperature, appreciating the crispy streusel crust and soft, flavorful interior with tender apple chunks.

Notes

Using fresh, grated apples keeps the muffins moist and flavorful. You can substitute nuts with dried cranberries for added tartness.