Apple Fritter Muffins

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl.
2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with dry. Mix until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the diced apples.

Step 3: Prepare the Streusel

1. In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until crumbly.

Step 4: Bake!

1. Fill each muffin cup ⅔ full with batter.
2. Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over each muffin.
3. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Glaze it Up

1. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Drizzle glaze over cooled muffins.

Cooking Notes

• Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best – they hold their shape and offer a nice balance of sweet and tart.
• Mixing: Don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour. Overmixing makes for dense muffins!
• Streusel: The streusel adds a lovely crunch, but feel free to skip it for a simpler muffin.

Variations

Caramel Apple Fritter Muffins:

• Drizzle with caramel sauce in addition to the glaze for extra decadence!

Nutty Apple Fritter Muffins:

• Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch.

Whole Wheat Apple Fritter Muffins:

• Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier muffin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make These Ahead?

Yes! Make them up to a day in advance and store in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wrap individually in plastic wrap to keep them moist.

Can I Freeze Them?

Absolutely! Cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20-30 seconds to reheat.

Can I Use Other Apples?

Yes! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal, feel free to use Fuji or Gala for a sweeter muffin.

Can I Skip the Glaze?

Definitely! The muffins are delicious on their own. You can dust them with powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy these irresistible Apple Fritter Muffins! They’re a perfect blend of sweet apples, warm spices, and a tender crumb. The streusel and glaze add extra deliciousness, making them a hit for any occasion. Experiment with different variations to find your favorite! Happy baking!