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!
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)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with liners or grease it lightly.
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In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
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In another bowl, whisk melted butter, buttermilk, and eggs until smooth.
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Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
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Fold in diced apples and optional nuts. Drizzle in caramel sauce and gently swirl through the batter.
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Spoon batter into muffin cups, filling about 3/4 full.
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Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool muffins in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
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Once cooled, drizzle with additional caramel sauce before serving.
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.
