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Apple Cinnamon Muffins with Streusel Topping

These apple cinnamon muffins feature tender, moist centers filled with softened apple pieces, topped with a crunchy streusel crust. They are baked until golden and aromatic, with a beautiful domed appearance and a cozy, spiced flavor profile that highlights baked apples and cinnamon.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 medium apples peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar for streusel
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter cut into small pieces, for streusel
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour for streusel
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for streusel

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Muffin tin
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, mix the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the chopped apples and stir to coat evenly.
  4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together just until no streaks remain. Do not overmix; the batter will be thick and slightly lumpy.
  5. In a small bowl, prepare the streusel by combining brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Top each muffin with a generous sprinkle of the streusel crumb for a crunchy, sweet topping.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The kitchen will fill with a warm cinnamon aroma.
  8. Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely or enjoy warm.
  9. Serve the muffins slightly warm or at room temperature, with the crunchy streusel contrasting against the tender apple-filled crumb.

Notes

For a richer streusel, add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.