Luscious Caramel Apple Muffins

Delight in the warm flavors of fall with these Luscious Caramel Apple Muffins. Bursting with fresh apples and drizzled with rich caramel, these muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they will become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 egg
1/2 cup milk
1 apple, peeled and diced
1/4 cup caramel sauce

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and sugar.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, and milk until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples.
5. Spoon the batter into the muffin liners, filling them about three-quarters full. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of each muffin.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 12 muffins.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20-22 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Spiced Up: Mix in additional spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Top with chocolate sauce instead of caramel for a delicious twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave for 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of apples?
   Yes, you can use any variety of apple, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for different flavors.
2. What if I don’t have caramel sauce?
   You can substitute with a mixture of brown sugar and butter melted together for a homemade caramel effect.
3. Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it. Bake in the morning for fresh muffins.
4. How do I know when the muffins are done?
   The muffins should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
5. Can I add more caramel to the recipe?
   Absolutely! You can mix caramel bits into the batter for an even richer flavor.
6. What can I serve with these muffins?
   They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, and a side of yogurt makes for a lovely breakfast.
7. Is there a dairy-free option?
   Yes, you can substitute the milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
8. Can I make mini muffins with this recipe?
   Yes, just reduce the baking time to about 12-15 minutes.
9. How do I store these muffins?
   Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
10. What is the best way to peel an apple?
    Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to peel the apple before dicing.

Conclusion

Luscious Caramel Apple Muffins are a deliciously sweet treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. With their moist texture, delightful apple chunks, and luscious caramel drizzle, they are sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection. Bake a batch today and enjoy the comforting flavors of this seasonal favorite!

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