Lu-Ann Simon October 10, 2025

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Apple Muffins with Pecan Crumble Topping

Name: Apple Muffins with Pecan Crumble Topping
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup buttermilk (or yogurt); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 1 cup chopped pecans

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Imagine walking into a warm kitchen filled with comforting scents of baked apples, cinnamon, and a hint of nutty pecans. As the aroma wafts through the air, it’s hard to resist the urge to grab one of those golden-brown Apple Muffins with Pecan Crumble Topping. Perfect for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a delightful treat shared with friends, these muffins are about more than just flavor; they embody warmth and togetherness.

What Makes This Special

Apple Muffins with Pecan Crumble Topping are a delightful fusion of texture and taste that invites you to linger over each bite. These muffins are not just another sweet option; they stand out for several reasons, including:

Moist and fluffy interior
Crunchy, buttery pecan topping
Sweet and tart apple balance
Easy to make with pantry ingredients
Perfect for any time of year

Each muffin is a little bundle of joy, enhanced by the festive pecan crumble that adds a delightful crunch to the soft apple-filled base. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, they are certain to please anyone who takes a bite.

Ingredients and Key Notes

Creating these mouthwatering muffins is a breeze as they require simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup buttermilk, or substitute with yogurt
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
1 cup chopped pecans

For a delicious twist, you can also replace or mix in other nuts or fruits according to your preference.

Step by Step

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a standard muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly to ensure easy release once baked.
Prepare the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This blend creates a flavorful base for your muffins.
Combine the wet ingredients. In another bowl, mix melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well blended, letting the melted butter cool slightly before adding the eggs to avoid cooking them.
Merge the mixtures. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Fold in the apples. Gently add the diced apples to the batter, distributing them evenly. Their natural sweetness will infuse throughout the muffins as they bake.
Spoon the batter into the muffin tin. Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full. This allows room for the muffins to rise beautifully.
Make the pecan topping. In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans with a bit of melted butter and a sprinkle of sugar. This will create that delightful crunchy topping.
Add the topping. Sprinkle the pecan crumble evenly over the batter in each muffin cup, pressing it down slightly for adherence.
Bake. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As they bake, be prepared for the inviting aroma to fill your kitchen.
Cool and enjoy. Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. They are best enjoyed warm, but equally delightful at room temperature.

Prep ~ 15 minutes, Cook ~ 25 minutes, Total ~ 40 minutes, Servings ~ 12, Kcal ~ 250 per muffin (approximately).

Plan Ahead

To make these delightful Apple Muffins with Pecan Crumble Topping even easier, consider preparing some elements in advance. You can mix the dry ingredients together and store them in an airtight container, saving you time when you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can pre-dice the apples and toss them with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. Once you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients and proceed with the recipe.

Storing and Reheating

Proper storage is essential for keeping your Apple Muffins with Pecan Crumble Topping fresh. Once the muffins have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container, which will keep them good for up to three days at room temperature.

If you wish to store them longer, consider freezing them. They can be individually wrapped or placed in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or allow them to thaw at room temperature. For an extra treat, warm them slightly before serving, and they will taste freshly baked.

Perfect Pairings

Apple Muffins with Pecan Crumble Topping can be enjoyed on their own, but they also pair beautifully with:

A hot cup of coffee for a delightful breakfast duo
Herbal tea for a soothing afternoon treat
Creamy yogurt for a balanced snack
Whipped cream cheese spread for added richness
Fresh fruit slices for a burst of freshness

Each pairing enhances the experience, bringing out the warm flavors of the muffins even more.

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

These muffins are easily adaptable, allowing for plenty of delicious variations. Consider these options to make them your own:

Substitute half the apples with ripe bananas for a delightful banana-apple combo.
Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a hint of chewiness.
Replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer taste.
Use almond flour for a gluten-free option, adjusting the liquid as needed.
Add a pinch of nutmeg alongside cinnamon for a warm spice twist.
Incorporate shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
Experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a unique crunch.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To ensure your Apple Muffins with Pecan Crumble Topping turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Measure flour accurately for consistent results; spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off.
Let the butter cool before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.
Do not overmix the muffin batter, as this can lead to dense muffins.
Bake muffins until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Keep an eye on the time, as ovens can vary; adjust accordingly.
Allow muffins to cool slightly before enjoying, to appreciate their texture fully.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use other fruits besides apples? Yes, you can substitute other fruits, such as pears or peaches, although cooking times might vary slightly based on moisture content.
Can I make these muffins vegan? Absolutely! Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based butter, and replace buttermilk with plant-based milk mixed with a splash of vinegar.
Why are my muffins too dense? Dense muffins can be caused by overmixing the batter. Aim for a few lumps in your batter for optimal texture.
How do I know when they are done baking? Use a toothpick inserted into the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they are ready.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe! Just make sure to use a larger mixing bowl, and the baking time may slightly increase.

Final Thoughts

Apple Muffins with Pecan Crumble Topping embody the joy of baking, offering a perfect treat for any occasion. Their mix of soft, fluffy cake and crunchy topping creates a sensory experience that warms the heart. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or saved for later, these muffins are bound to bring smiles and comfort to your table. So gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful recipe soon; you won’t regret it!

Apple Muffins with Pecan Crumble Topping

Author: lu-ann
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Warm and comforting Apple Muffins topped with a crunchy pecan crumble, perfect for any time of year.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the muffin tin with liners or grease it.
Whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients: melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until blended.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
Fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed.
Spoon the batter into muffin cups filling them about two-thirds full.
In a small bowl, mix chopped pecans with a bit of melted butter and sugar for the topping.
Sprinkle the pecan crumble over the batter in each muffin cup.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let cool briefly before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.