Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve found it! These Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch are not just any muffins; they are a warm hug in a muffin cup. The combination of pumpkin and fresh apple brings cozy vibes, perfect for those crisp autumn mornings or a sweet afternoon snack. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to impress without the fuss.

What makes this recipe special is the buttery streusel topping that adds just the right amount of crunch. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or serve them at breakfast, these muffins will surely become a favorite in your home, just like they have in mine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these muffins baking away in no time!
• Perfectly Portion-Controlled: This small batch is great for satisfying cravings without overwhelming your kitchen with leftovers.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and apple is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them in advance and enjoy warm muffins throughout the week with minimal effort.
• Cozy Autumn Vibes: The spices and flavors truly capture the essence of fall, making every bite feel like a seasonal celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These muffins come together using simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious treat!

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 salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice)
• 1 ½ tablespoons diced apples (reserved from below)

For the 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 (I use Honeycrisp; Dice about 1 ½ tablespoons smaller for the streusel)
• 1/2 cup, plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling creative or want to tailor it to your taste, here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use Different Fruits: Substitute pears or cranberries if you’re craving something different.
• Make It Whole Wheat: Swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
• Sweeten It Up: If you love a sweeter muffin, increase the sugar by a tablespoon.

How to Make Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Start by mixing together the streusel ingredients: combine flour, cold butter cubes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial because it creates that delightful crunchy topping we all love!

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your muffins bake evenly and rise beautifully. Grease or line a muffin tin with papers while you’re at it!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together sour cream, canned pumpkin, apple juice (or your choice), granulated sugar, light brown sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly helps create a moist muffin base that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In yet another bowl—yes, I know it’s more dishes—mix together flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. This step ensures even distribution of spices and leavening agents throughout your batter.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Now gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! A few lumps are okay; this keeps your muffins soft and tender.

Step 6: Add Apples

Fold in those lovely fresh apple cubes (save some smaller pieces for your streusel!). The apples add moisture and sweetness that perfectly complement the pumpkin.

Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups

Divide the batter evenly among four muffin cups. Don’t forget to top each one with that delicious streusel mixture we made earlier!

Step 8: Bake Away!

Place your muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 18 minutes or until golden brown on top. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 9: Cool & Enjoy

Once baked, let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature – either way they are absolutely scrumptious!

Now you’re ready to savor these delightful Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

Baking these delightful muffins is a breeze, especially with a few helpful tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use cold butter for the streusel: Incorporating cold butter helps create a crumbly texture that adds a delightful crunch to the muffin topping.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the ingredients together prevents the muffins from becoming tough and keeps them light and fluffy.

• Let muffins cool in the pan: Allowing them to cool for a few minutes in the muffin tin before transferring them to a wire rack helps maintain their shape and prevents sticking.

• Use fresh apples: Opt for crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a burst of flavor and texture in each bite. Fresh apples also add moisture, making your muffins extra tender.

• Experiment with spices: If you enjoy warm spices, feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice or add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra cozy flavor profile.

How to Serve Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

These muffins are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can enjoy them! Whether for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances visual appeal without overpowering the flavors.

• Cinnamon sprinkle: A sprinkle of cinnamon on top just before serving gives an inviting scent and reinforces those fall flavors everyone loves.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt Parfait: Pair your muffins with a yogurt parfait that includes layers of creamy yogurt, granola, and seasonal fruits for added nutrition and color.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like berries, oranges, and pears complements the richness of the muffins while adding a bright contrast.

• Warm Oatmeal: Serve alongside warm oatmeal flavored with cinnamon and honey for a hearty breakfast option that is filling and nutritious.

• Herbal Tea or Coffee: Enjoy your muffins with a lovely cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee to enhance your cozy experience. The warm beverage pairs perfectly with the sweet and spiced flavors of the muffins.

With these simple serving suggestions, your Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch will not only taste wonderful but look inviting on any table! Enjoy baking this heartwarming treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are perfect for meal prep! Making them in a small batch means you can enjoy fresh muffins throughout the week without feeling overwhelmed by leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Place the cooled muffins in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week.
• To maintain freshness, make sure they are fully cooled before sealing.

Freezing

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just label them with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat muffins in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also use a microwave; heat one muffin at a time for about 15-20 seconds on high.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delightful muffins.

Can I make Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch without sour cream?

Yes! If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute with Greek yogurt, which will yield a similar moisture level and tangy flavor.

How long do Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch stay fresh?

When stored properly, these muffins are fresh for up to two days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

What kind of apples work best in this recipe?

Honeycrisp apples are my favorite due to their sweetness and crispness, but you can use any firm apple variety that you enjoy!

Can I add nuts to the Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a lovely crunch and additional flavor. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins! They beautifully capture the warmth of fall flavors and make for an irresistible treat any time of day. Whether enjoyed as breakfast or dessert, they’re sure to bring smiles to your table. Happy baking!