Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins (Small Batch)

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of apple and pumpkin, especially as the leaves begin to turn and the air gets a little crisp. This small-batch recipe for Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins has quickly become a family favorite in our home. Not only do these muffins boast the warm, cozy flavors of fall, but they also come in a manageable size that’s perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. The apple chunks add a delightful burst of flavor, while the buttery streusel topping takes them to the next level. Every bite is a little piece of autumn heaven!

Ingredients

For the Streusel Topping:

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1 ½ tablespoons light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice)
• 1 ½ tablespoons diced apples (reserved from below)

For the Apple Pumpkin Muffins:

• 1 ½ tablespoons full-fat sour cream, room temperature
• 5 tablespoons pure canned pumpkin
• 1 tablespoon apple juice (or orange juice or water)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup fresh apple, cut into small cubes (reserve 1 ½ tablespoons for the streusel)
• 1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Streusel Topping:

In a small bowl, combine the flour, cold butter, both sugars, salt, and cinnamon. Use your fingers or a fork to mix the ingredients until small pea-sized pieces of streusel form. Stir in the reserved diced apples, then refrigerate the streusel until ready to use.

2. Make the Muffin Batter:

• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a muffin pan with 4 liners.
• In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, pumpkin puree, apple juice, both sugars, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix with a fork until smooth and well combined. Stir in the remaining apple cubes.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually sprinkle the dry ingredients over the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

3. Assemble the Muffins:

Evenly divide the batter among the 4 prepared muffin liners. Top each muffin with equal portions of the streusel topping.

4. Bake the Muffins:

Bake at 425°F for 5 minutes to help the muffin tops rise. After 5 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and continue baking for an additional 11 to 13 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the muffins comes out mostly clean.

5. Cool and Serve:

Let the muffins cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then transfer the muffins to the rack to cool completely. Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 5 days.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4 muffins
• Calories per muffin: Approximately 180
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 16-18 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

How to Serve

• Enjoy warm: These muffins are best served warm right out of the oven.
• Pair with drinks: Serve with a cup of coffee, tea, or apple cider.
• Breakfast or snack: Perfect for a cozy breakfast or a delicious afternoon snack.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh spices: For the best flavor, opt for fresh spices over pre-ground.
2. Check doneness: Always test your muffins with a toothpick to ensure they’re baked through.
3. Cool completely: Allow muffins to cool completely for the best texture and flavor.
4. Experiment with toppings: Feel free to mix up the streusel by adding nuts or oats for added crunch.
5. Adjust sweetness: If you prefer sweeter muffins, increase the sugar by 1 tablespoon.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt in place of sour cream and coconut oil instead of butter.
• Add-ins: Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast platter: Serve alongside other breakfast items like yogurt and fruit for a complete meal.
• Dessert treat: These muffins also make for a lovely dessert option, especially when paired with vanilla ice cream.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 5 days.
• Freezing: These muffins freeze well! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
   Yes, but ensure it’s properly cooked and pureed.
2. What if I don’t have sour cream?
   You can substitute with Greek yogurt or buttermilk.
3. Can I make these muffins without sugar?
   You can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, adjusting the liquid content accordingly.
4. What kind of apples work best?
   Sweet and crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji are ideal.
5. How can I make these muffins healthier?
   Substitute part of the flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly.
6. Is it possible to double this recipe?
   Yes, just adjust the quantities accordingly and bake in batches.
7. Can I leave out the streusel topping?
   Absolutely, the muffins will still be delicious!
8. What if I want to add nuts?
   Chopped walnuts or pecans can be mixed into the batter or added to the streusel.
9. How do I know when the muffins are done?
   Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready.
10. What can I serve these muffins with?
    They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a light cream cheese spread.

Conclusion

These Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are the perfect treat to celebrate the flavors of fall without overwhelming your kitchen. They are easy to prepare, deliciously moist, and ideal for a small gathering or just a quiet morning at home. Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven or as an afternoon snack, these muffins are sure to become a cherished addition to your seasonal baking repertoire. Enjoy every bite of this cozy, comforting recipe!

Print