Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and spicy with these glazed apple crumb muffins. They combine tender apple chunks, a cinnamon-infused crumb topping, and a luscious vanilla glaze for a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack.
If you don't usually stock pure vanilla extract or confectioners’ sugar, you might need to pick them up at the supermarket. Pure vanilla extract adds depth of flavor, while confectioners’ sugar is essential for the smooth vanilla icing.
Ingredients for Glazed Apple Crumb Muffins
brown sugar: Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness to both the crumb topping and the muffins.
granulated sugar: Provides additional sweetness and helps with the structure of the muffins.
ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and spice into the crumb topping and the muffin batter.
unsalted butter: Adds moisture and richness to the muffins and crumb topping.
all-purpose flour: The base for both the crumb topping and the muffin batter, providing structure.
eggs: Bind the muffin ingredients together and add richness.
yogurt: Keeps the muffins moist and tender.
pure vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the muffins and icing.
baking soda: Helps the muffins rise and become fluffy.
baking powder: Works with the baking soda to ensure the muffins are light and airy.
salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
apple: Provides a fresh, fruity flavor and moist texture to the muffins.
confectioners’ sugar: Used in the vanilla icing for sweetness and a smooth texture.
heavy cream: Gives the icing a rich, creamy consistency.
One reader, Ag Gipson says:
These glazed apple crumb muffins are a delight! The crumb topping adds a perfect crunch, and the apple pieces keep the muffins moist and flavorful. The vanilla icing drizzled on top is the perfect finishing touch. A must-try for any muffin lover!
Techniques for Perfect Glazed Apple Crumb Muffins
How to combine ingredients for crumb topping: Mix sugars, cinnamon, and melted butter, then stir in flour until thick and crumbly. How to prepare muffin pan: Spray with nonstick spray or line with cupcake liners. How to beat butter and sugars: Use a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle attachment on high speed until smooth and creamy. How to mix wet ingredients: Add eggs, yogurt, and vanilla extract, then beat on medium speed for 1 minute and high speed until combined. How to mix dry ingredients: Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt together. How to combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour dry ingredients into wet ingredients, add milk and apple, and mix on low speed until combined. How to fill muffin cups: Spoon batter evenly into each cup or liner, filling to the top. How to apply crumb topping: Press crumb topping into the top of each muffin, making big chunks. How to bake muffins: Bake at 425 degrees F for 5 minutes, then lower to 350 degrees F and bake for 15-17 more minutes. How to make icing: Whisk confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract together and drizzle over warm muffins.
How To Make Glazed Apple Crumb Muffins
Moist and tender apple crumb muffins with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon are topped with a crisp brown sugar crumble & finished off with vanilla icing.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Crumb Topping:
- ⅓cupbrown sugar,packed light or dark
- 1tbspgranulated sugar
- 1tspground cinnamon
- ¼cupunsalted butter,melted
- ⅔cupall-purpose flour,spoon & leveled
For Muffins:
- ½cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
- ½cupbrown sugar,packed, light or dark
- ¼cupgranulated sugar
- 2large eggs,at room temperature
- ½cupyogurt,at room temperature
- 2tsppure vanilla extract
- 1¾cupsall-purpose flour,spoon & leveled
- 1tspbaking soda
- 1tspbaking powder
- 1tspground cinnamon
- ½tspsalt
- ¼cupmilk,any kind at room temperature
- 1½cupsapple,peeled, chopped
For Vanilla Icing:
- 1cupconfectioners’ sugar
- 3tbspheavy cream,(or milk for a less creamy texture)
- ½tsppure vanilla extract
Instructions
Crumb Topping:
-
In a medium bowl, combine both sugars, the cinnamon, and melted butter. Using a rubber spatula, stir in the flour. The crumb topping will be thick and crumbly. Set aside.
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Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Spray a 12-count muffin pan with nonstick spray or line with cupcake liners. Set aside.
Muffins:
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Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and both sugars together on high speed until smooth and creamy.
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Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Add the eggs, yogurt, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 1 minute, then turn up to high speed until the mixture is combined and uniform in texture. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
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Whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt together in a medium bowl. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, add the milk and apple, and mix on low speed until everything is combined.
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Spoon the batter evenly into each cup or liner, filling each all the way to the top. Press a handful of the crumb topping into the top of each; crumble it with hands to make some big chunks.
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Bake for 5 minutes at 425 degrees F, then keeping the muffins in the oven, lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees F and bake for 15 to 17 more minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Icing:
-
Whisk all of the ingredients together and drizzle over warm muffins.
Nutrition
- Calories: 287.77kcal
- Fat: 12.39g
- Saturated Fat: 7.51g
- Trans Fat: 0.40g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.30g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.66g
- Carbohydrates: 40.80g
- Fiber: 1.06g
- Sugar: 23.34g
- Protein: 3.79g
- Cholesterol: 58.69mg
- Sodium: 214.70mg
- Calcium: 63.80mg
- Potassium: 84.57mg
- Iron: 1.29mg
- Vitamin A: 112.59µg
- Vitamin C: 0.61mg
Key Technique for Achieving the Perfect Crumb Topping
When preparing the crumb topping, ensure the butter is fully melted and mixed well with the sugars and cinnamon. This will help create a uniform, crumbly texture that will bake into a deliciously crunchy topping.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Glazed Apple Crumb Muffins
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately the night before to save time in the morning.
Use pre-chopped apples: Buy pre-chopped apples or chop them in advance to speed up the preparation process.
Make crumb topping ahead: Prepare the crumb topping a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
Utilize muffin liners: Using muffin liners can save you the time of greasing the pan and make cleanup easier.
Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while you are mixing the ingredients to save waiting time.
Substitute Ingredients For Glazed Apple Crumb Muffins Recipe
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor and can be used in equal amounts.
granulated sugar - Substitute with cane sugar: Cane sugar is less processed and has a slightly different flavor but works well in baking.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice contains cinnamon along with other spices that can add a warm, complex flavor.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can add a subtle coconut flavor.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the muffins denser.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar texture.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a different kind of sweetness and moisture but may require adjusting other liquid ingredients.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey is sweeter than granulated sugar and adds moisture, so use slightly less.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) are a good vegan alternative.
yogurt - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream has a similar texture and tanginess, making it a good substitute.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with vanilla bean paste: Vanilla bean paste has a more intense flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour is gluten-free and adds a nutty flavor but may require additional binding agents.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use three times the amount of baking powder, but it may slightly alter the texture.
baking powder - Substitute with self-rising flour: Self-rising flour already contains baking powder and salt, so adjust the recipe accordingly.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg has a different but complementary flavor that can add warmth to the muffins.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a different mineral content and flavor but can be used in the same quantity.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative with a similar consistency.
apple - Substitute with pear: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good substitute.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with powdered coconut sugar: Powdered coconut sugar can be used in the same quantity and adds a caramel-like flavor.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream provides a similar richness and can be used in the same quantity.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract has a different but strong flavor that can add a unique twist to the icing.
Presenting Your Freshly Baked Muffins
Use elegant muffin liners: Choose high-quality, decorative liners to give the muffins a refined look. Opt for gold or silver foil liners to add a touch of luxury.
Create uniform crumb topping: Ensure the crumb topping is evenly distributed and pressed gently into the muffins before baking. This will create a consistent and professional appearance.
Perfectly bake the muffins: Follow the baking instructions precisely to achieve a golden-brown top and a moist interior. Use a toothpick to check for doneness, ensuring the muffins are baked to perfection.
Drizzle with precision: Use a piping bag or a small spoon to drizzle the vanilla icing over the muffins in a controlled and artistic manner. Aim for thin, even lines to create a visually appealing pattern.
Garnish with fresh apple slices: Thinly slice a fresh apple and place a small piece on top of each muffin. This adds a fresh element and enhances the presentation.
Serve on a stylish platter: Arrange the muffins on a sleek, modern serving platter. Consider using a white or black platter to make the colors of the muffins and icing pop.
Add a touch of greenery: Garnish the platter with a few sprigs of fresh mint or edible flowers. This adds a pop of color and a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Provide individual plates: Serve each muffin on a small, individual plate with a fork. This allows guests to enjoy the muffins in a refined manner, befitting a Michelin-starred experience.
Essential Tools for Making Glazed Apple Crumb Muffins
Medium bowl: Used to combine the ingredients for the crumb topping.
Rubber spatula: Handy for stirring the crumb topping mixture and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
12-count muffin pan: Essential for baking the muffins, ensuring they hold their shape.
Nonstick spray: Used to coat the muffin pan to prevent the muffins from sticking.
Cupcake liners: An alternative to nonstick spray, making it easier to remove the muffins from the pan.
Handheld mixer: Useful for beating the butter and sugars together until smooth and creamy.
Stand mixer: An alternative to the handheld mixer, fitted with a paddle attachment for mixing the muffin batter.
Whisk: Used to combine the dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring both dry and wet ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Essential for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients like cinnamon and vanilla extract.
Oven: Preheated to bake the muffins at the required temperatures.
Toothpick: Used to check if the muffins are baked through by inserting it into the center.
Small bowl: Used to whisk together the ingredients for the vanilla icing.
Whisk (for icing): Used to mix the confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Spoon: Handy for spooning the muffin batter into the muffin pan.
Knife: Used to chop the apples into small pieces.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the apples.
Cooling rack: Used to cool the muffins after baking.
Drizzling spoon: Useful for drizzling the vanilla icing over the warm muffins.
Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Muffins
- Allow the glazed apple crumb muffins to cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing.
- To store, place the cooled muffins in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze the muffins:
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring a tight seal.
- Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To thaw frozen muffins, remove them from the freezer and let them defrost at room temperature for about an hour, or microwave individual muffins on low power for 30-45 seconds until warmed through.
- If desired, refresh the glaze on thawed muffins by drizzling a small amount of freshly prepared vanilla icing over the top before serving.
How to Reheat Leftover Muffins
To reheat leftover glazed apple crumb muffins, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the muffins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the crumb topping is crispy again. This method will help restore the muffins' original texture and flavor.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place a muffin on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 15-20 seconds on high power. If the muffin isn't warm enough, continue microwaving in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the muffin, as it may become tough or rubbery.
For a quicker and more convenient method, use a toaster oven. Cut the muffin in half horizontally and place both halves cut-side up on the toaster oven rack. Toast the muffin halves for 2-3 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method works well if you want to reheat just one or two muffins at a time.
If you want to reheat multiple muffins at once, you can also use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the muffins in the basket, leaving some space between each one. Heat the muffins for 3-5 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the crumb topping is crispy. This method is faster than using a conventional oven and will help maintain the muffins' texture.
For a softer, more moist muffin, wrap the leftover muffin in a damp paper towel before microwaving it for 15-20 seconds on high power. The damp paper towel will help prevent the muffin from drying out during reheating. This method works best if you prefer a softer texture rather than a crispy crumb topping.
Interesting Fact About Glazed Apple Crumb Muffins
A fun fact about this glazed apple crumb muffins recipe is that the combination of yogurt and apples not only adds moisture but also enhances the muffins' flavor, making them incredibly tender and delicious.
Is Making Glazed Apple Crumb Muffins at Home Cost-Effective?
When analyzing the cost-effectiveness of these glazed apple crumb muffins, it's essential to consider the ingredients. The primary components like apples, flour, sugar, and butter are relatively inexpensive and commonly found in most households. The recipe yields 12 muffins, which is ample for a household of four. Assuming you have some pantry staples, the approximate cost for the entire recipe is around $10-$12 USD. This makes it a budget-friendly option for a delightful dessert. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Are Glazed Apple Crumb Muffins Healthy or Unhealthy?
The glazed apple crumb muffins recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar, with brown sugar and granulated sugar featured in both the crumb topping and the muffin batter. Additionally, the use of butter and heavy cream contributes to the high fat content of the muffins. The all-purpose flour used in the recipe is also a refined carbohydrate, which can cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the crumb topping and muffin batter, or replace some of the sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
- Use whole wheat flour or oat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
- Replace some of the butter with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt, applesauce, or mashed bananas to reduce the fat content
- Increase the amount of apples used in the recipe to boost the fiber and nutrient content of the muffins
- Use low-fat milk or a plant-based milk alternative instead of whole milk to reduce the fat content
- Omit the vanilla icing or use a lighter drizzle to minimize the added sugar
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Muffin Recipe
This recipe for glazed apple crumb muffins is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The crumb topping adds a satisfying crunch, while the moist muffins are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of apples. The vanilla icing provides a perfect finishing touch, adding a hint of creamy sweetness. The use of yogurt ensures a tender crumb, and the combination of baking soda and baking powder guarantees a good rise. Overall, this recipe is well-balanced and sure to impress, making it an excellent choice for a cozy breakfast or a sweet treat.
Enhance Your Glazed Apple Crumb Muffins Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Glazed Apple Crumb Muffins Recipe:
This recipe for glazed apple crumb muffins is meticulously crafted to ensure perfect results every time. The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and apples creates a delightful flavor profile, while the crumb topping adds a satisfying crunch. The detailed instructions guide you through each step, ensuring a foolproof baking experience. Trust in the quality ingredients and precise measurements to deliver delicious, bakery-quality muffins right from your kitchen.
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