Apple Pie Muffins with Crumble replaces the word nice with emptypping – A Perfect Fusion of Muffin and Pie

These Apple Pie Muffins are the perfect combination of a classic muffin and the cozy flavors of apple pie. The muffin’s tender base is packed with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, complemented by sweet apple pieces. But what makes these muffins irresistible is the gooey apple pie that fills the center and the buttery crumble topping, which adds a delicious crunch to every bite. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, these muffins are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you’re craving a comforting treat!

Why you will love this recipe:

You’ll fall in love with this recipe because it combines the best of two beloved desserts: muffins and apple pie. The muffin batter is simple but flavorful, enhanced by the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, perfect for the fall season. Adding homemade apple pie filling inside the muffins makes each bite even more special, delivering the gooey texture of apple pie right in the center. The crumble topping adds the finishing touch with its buttery and sweet crunch. Plus, this recipe is easy to follow and the muffins are versatile enough for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Perfect occasion:

These apple pie muffins are ideal for cozy fall mornings, brunches with friends, or as a snack for afternoon tea. They also make a great addition to holiday get-togethers or potlucks, where their comforting flavors are sure to be a hit. If you’re looking for a warm and satisfying treat in cooler weather, these muffins will quickly become a go-to recipe. They’re also perfect to take on the go or pack in lunch boxes for a sweet surprise.

Decorating Tips:

For a beautiful presentation, dust the muffins with powdered sugar before serving to give them an elegant finish. You can also drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a little milk or lemon juice over the crumble topping for an extra touch of sweetness. If you want to play up the apple pie theme even more, you can top each muffin with a small apple slice before baking or garnish with cinnamon sticks for a rustic, fall-inspired look.

Ingredients:

For the muffin batter:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 medium sized apple, chopped

For the crumble topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 50 g unsalted butter (cold, diced)

For the apple pie filling/filling:

• 3 medium sized apples
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 20 g flour (to thicken)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional for richness)

Instructions:

Prepare the apple pie filling:

1. Prepare the apples:
   Peel, core and cut the apples into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the filling:
   In a saucepan, combine the apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and the filling thickens to the desired consistency (about 10-15 minutes). For extra richness, incorporate the butter towards the end. Once thickened, remove from heat and allow to cool before using.

Prepare the crumble topping:

1. Prepare the crumble:
   In a small bowl, mix the flour, sugar and cinnamon. Add the cold, diced butter and rub it in with your fingers until the mixture resembles large crumbs. Cancel.

Prepare the muffins:

1. Prepare the dry ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt.
2. Add the apples:
   Mix the chopped apples with the dry ingredients to coat them evenly.
3. Prepare the wet ingredients:
   In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Mix wet and dry ingredients:
   Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir gently until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the muffins dense.
5. Cool the dough:
   Cover the dough and let it chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. This helps prevent the dough from spreading too much during baking.

Assemble and bake:

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Fill the muffin tins:
   Pour the muffin batter into the lined muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Add a dollop of prepared apple pie filling to each muffin, then sprinkle generously with crumble topping.
3. Cook:
   Bake muffins for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The muffins should be nicely browned and covered with a crispy crumble.
4. Cool and serve:
   Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a rack to cool completely. Serve hot or at room temperature and enjoy the delicious combination of muffin and apple pie!

Enjoy these warm and comforting Apple Pie Muffins as the perfect fall treat!