Caramel Apple Muffins Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with juicy apple pieces and warm cinnamon spice

• Topped with luscious caramel for an extra special touch

• Simple and quick to prepare with pantry staples

• Perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or cozy fall mornings

• Optional crunchy nuts for added texture and flavor

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon 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 milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice)

• 2 large eggs

• 2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)

• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter, buttermilk, and eggs until smooth.

4. Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.

5. Fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts if using. Drizzle in the caramel sauce and gently mix to distribute.

6. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.

7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool muffins in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the cooled muffins before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 muffins and takes about 35 minutes total (15 minutes prep, 18-22 minutes baking).

Variations

• Add chocolate chips for a delicious caramel-chocolate twist.

• Sprinkle extra cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for more spiced warmth.

• Use different types of apples like Fuji or Pink Lady for varied sweetness.

• Top muffins with a sprinkle of coarse sugar before baking for a crunchy topping.

Storage/Reheating

• Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerate for up to 5 days if you prefer them chilled.

• Reheat briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey caramel topping.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are recommended, but Fuji, Pink Lady, or Gala apples work well too.

Can I make these muffins without nuts?

Absolutely. The nuts are optional and the muffins are still delicious without them.

How do I make my own buttermilk?

Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, then let it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, freeze the cooled muffins without the caramel drizzle. Add fresh caramel after reheating.

How long do these muffins stay fresh?

They stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature and up to 5 days refrigerated.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, a good-quality store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly for this recipe.

How do I prevent the muffins from becoming dry?

Do not overbake them; check with a toothpick around the 18-minute mark.

Can I add more spices?

Of course! Nutmeg, ginger, or allspice would add even more cozy flavors.

What’s the best way to drizzle caramel?

Use a spoon or a small piping bag to drizzle caramel over the muffins for a neat finish.

Are these muffins good for breakfast?

Yes, they make a delicious treat for breakfast or brunch, paired with coffee or tea.

Conclusion

These Caramel Apple Muffins are a cozy, irresistible treat filled with the flavors of fall. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, their tender crumb, bursts of apple, and caramel drizzle make them a seasonal favorite. Try them out and let these muffins warm your heart and home!

Caramel Apple Muffins Recipe

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• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18–22 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 muffins
• Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack, Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

These Caramel Apple Muffins are the perfect cozy fall treat, packed with juicy apple chunks, warm cinnamon spice, and drizzled with sweet caramel. Easy to make and ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an autumn afternoon snack!

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Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon 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 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice)

2 large eggs

2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)

1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional — pecans or walnuts)

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with liners or grease it lightly.

• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

• In another bowl, whisk melted butter, buttermilk, and eggs until smooth.

• Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.

• Fold in diced apples and optional nuts. Drizzle in caramel sauce and gently swirl through the batter.

• Spoon batter into muffin cups, filling about 3/4 full.

• Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

• Cool muffins in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

• Once cooled, drizzle with additional caramel sauce before serving.

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Notes

Swap in chocolate chips for a caramel-chocolate twist.

Add nutmeg or allspice for extra cozy spice.

Use different apple varieties for a sweeter or more tart muffin.

Top with coarse sugar for a crispy muffin top.

Freeze muffins without the caramel drizzle; add it fresh after reheating.