The Best Apple Pie Muffins Recipe for Cozy Breakfast Treats

Delectable apple pie muffins combine the warmth of classic desserts with portable breakfast charm.

These delightful treats capture the essence of comfort baking in a convenient handheld form.

Fragrant spices and tender fruit create a nostalgic flavor profile that feels like a loving embrace.

Seasonal ingredients merge seamlessly, promising a delicious twist on traditional pastry expectations.

Soft, moist interiors complement a delicate crumbly texture that melts in your mouth.

Baking these muffins fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone near.

You can want to savor each bite of these sweet, spiced treasures that perfectly balance simplicity and sophistication.

Explore this recipe and let the magic of homemade goodness unfold before you.

Apple Muffins with Pie-Like Warmth

• These muffins brilliantly capture the classic apple pie flavors in a convenient, handheld treat that bursts with warm cinnamon and sweet apple goodness.
• Enjoy a delightful contrast between the soft, tender muffin base, juicy apple chunks, and the crispy crumble topping that adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
• Designed for both novice and experienced bakers, this recipe transforms the traditional pie-making process into an easy, quick morning baking project that's perfect for weekend mornings or family breakfast gatherings.
• Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon snacking, these muffins deliver the nostalgic comfort of apple pie in a portable, shareable format that appeals to both kids and adults.

What to Include for Apple Muffin Perfection

Main Ingredients:

Flour Group: – All-Purpose Flour, Whole Wheat Flour: Provides structure and texture for the muffins, whole wheat adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrition.

Fruit Group: – Apples, Apple Butter: Fresh apples bring natural sweetness and moisture, apple butter intensifies the apple flavor and adds richness.

Baking Essentials:

Sweeteners and Spices: – Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar, Cinnamon: Adds sweetness and warm spice, brown sugar creates deeper caramel notes.

Binding Ingredients: – Eggs, Butter, Milk: Eggs help bind the ingredients, butter adds richness, milk ensures a tender crumb.

Finishing Components:

Topping Group: – Pie Crust Crumbs, Pecans: Pie crust crumbs create a crispy layer, pecans add crunch and nutty depth.

Enrichment Ingredients: – Vanilla Extract, Salt: Vanilla enhances overall flavor, salt balances sweetness and brings out other tastes.

Steps for Mixing and Baking Apple Muffins

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly coat 24 mini muffin cups with cooking spray, preparing the pan for delicious treats.

Step 2: Create Delectable Apple Filling

• Diced apples
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon
• Salt

Stir frequently and cook until apples soften, about 10-12 minutes. Splash in lemon juice and let the mixture cool down.

Step 3: Craft Crunchy Crumble Topping

• Flour
• Brown sugar
• Toasted pecans

Work in butter until the mixture becomes wonderfully crumbly and textured.

Step 4: Shape Pie Crust Bases

Spread pie crusts on a floured surface, rolling until smooth. Use a 3-inch round cookie cutter to slice 24 perfect circles. Gently press each round into muffin cups, forming adorable mini pie shells. Brush egg wash along the crust edges for a beautiful golden finish.

Step 5: Build Mouthwatering Muffin Layers

Spoon apple filling evenly into each crust-lined cup. Sprinkle generous amounts of crumble topping over each muffin.

Step 6: Bake And Serve

Bake for 15-20 minutes until edges turn a gorgeous golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack. Carefully loosen muffins using a knife and get ready to enjoy!

Smart Tips for a Moist Muffin Crumb

• Dice Apples Precisely: Cut apples into uniform small cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the muffins.
• Control Moisture Carefully: Drain excess liquid from cooked apple filling to prevent soggy muffin bottoms and maintain a perfect crumbly texture.
• Layer Crumble Strategically: Sprinkle crumble topping generously but gently, creating peaks and valleys for a crispy, golden-brown crust.
• Let Muffins Rest Completely: Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack, preventing them from breaking apart.
• Store Smartly: Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer preservation without losing flavor.

Keeping Apple Muffins Fresh After Baking

• Refrigerate: Store muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, keeping them fresh and preventing moisture loss.
• Freeze: Wrap individual muffins tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months, preserving their delicious flavor and texture.
• Reheat: Warm refrigerated or thawed muffins in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through, restoring their soft, comforting warmth.

Coffee or Cider? Pairing Ideas for Muffins

• Brew the Perfect Cinnamon Companion: Pair these apple pie muffins with a warm, spiced chai latte that echoes the cinnamon notes in the recipe, creating a cozy flavor harmony that wraps you in comfort.
• Scoop a Creamy Dream: Top the muffins with a small dollop of vanilla bean ice cream or freshly whipped cream, letting the cool, smooth texture contrast beautifully with the warm, crispy muffin crust.
• Pour a Sweet Sip: Complement the dessert with a chilled glass of apple cider or a light moscato wine, which will enhance the apple's natural sweetness and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, buttery muffin.
• Craft a Nutty Sidekick: Serve alongside a small plate of toasted pecans or almond biscotti to mirror the nutty crumble topping and add an extra layer of crunch and depth to your delightful muffin experience.

Variations That Add Something Extra to Muffins

• Rustic Berry Blend: Replace apples with mixed berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a tangy summer-inspired version. Toast walnuts instead of pecans to complement the fruity filling.
• Caramel Pear Celebration: Swap apples for ripe pears and add caramel drizzle over the crumble topping. Incorporate ground cardamom for a warm, sophisticated flavor profile.
• Tropical Coconut Fusion: Substitute apples with diced mangoes and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top. Replace pecans with macadamia nuts for an island-inspired treat that brings exotic sweetness to the classic recipe.

Muffin FAQs for Curious Cooks

• Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Yes! Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work great. Choose apples that are firm and slightly tart for the best flavor and texture.

• How do I store these Apple Pie Muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 weeks.

• Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the regular pie crust and flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free pie crust mix.

• What if I don't have pecans for the crumble topping?

No problem! You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or skip nuts entirely. The crumble will still be delicious.

Apple Pie Muffins Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Warm, spiced apple pie muffins deliver classic American comfort in a handheld treat. Cinnamon-kissed batter and tender apple chunks create a delightful breakfast or snack perfect for sharing with loved ones.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 pre-made, ready to roll pie crusts or homemade all butter pie crust
• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced into ¼-inch (0.6 cm) cubes

Apple Filling Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons (30 g) brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice

Crumble Topping and Finishing Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) unsalted butter
• ⅓ cup (40 g) flour
• ⅓ cup (70 g) brown sugar
• ⅓ cup (40 g) pecan halves, toasted
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg for egg wash
• Whipped cream, ice cream, or caramel sauce for topping

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Create a welcoming kitchen environment by heating the oven to 350 degrees F and preparing mini muffin tins with a light cooking spray coating.
2. Transform diced apples into a luscious filling by sautéing them in melted butter over medium-high heat. Introduce brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, stirring consistently until the fruit softens and caramelizes. Splash with lemon juice to enhance the flavor profile, then allow the mixture to cool and develop depth.
3. Craft a textural crumble topping by blending flour, brown sugar, and toasted pecans in a mixing bowl. Incorporate butter until the mixture achieves a delicate, crumbly consistency that will provide a delightful crunch.
4. Unleash your pastry skills by rolling pie crusts on a floured surface until uniformly thin. Utilize a 3-inch round cookie cutter to create 24 delicate rounds. Gently press each round into the prepared muffin cavities, forming miniature pie shells. Brush the exposed crust edges with an egg wash to ensure a golden, glossy finish.
5. Assemble the mini pies by carefully spooning the cooled apple filling into each crust, ensuring an even distribution. Crown each mini pie with a generous sprinkle of the prepared pecan crumble topping.
6. Slide the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, watching for a beautiful golden-brown transformation. Once baked, transfer to a cooling rack and allow the mini pies to rest briefly. Delicately loosen the edges with a knife to release these delectable treats.

Notes

• Crumble the streusel topping ahead of time and refrigerate for a firmer texture that holds up during baking.
• Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and structural integrity in the muffins.
• Line your muffin pan with parchment paper liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of delicate muffins.
• Allow muffins to cool completely before storing to maintain their crisp crumble top and prevent moisture buildup.
• These muffins freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months – wrap individually in plastic wrap for quick grab-and-go breakfasts.
• For maximum flavor, warm muffins slightly before serving and pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 120 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg