Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, look no further! These Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch are a delightful way to combine sweet apples and warm pumpkin in a perfectly soft muffin. This recipe is so special to me because it brings together my favorite flavors and fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a family gathering, these muffins are sure to bring smiles all around!

The best part? You can whip up this small batch in no time, making them perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! They’re great for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as dessert after dinner. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your fall baking lineup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious muffins ready in under half an hour!
• Perfectly portioned: This small batch makes just four muffins, so there’s no need to worry about leftovers.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the combination of pumpkin and apple—it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the batter ahead of time and bake fresh muffins whenever you need them.
• Delicious flavors: The blend of spices and sweet fruit creates a comforting taste that embodies the spirit of fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for these delightful muffins. You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or fridge!

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! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Swap the fruit: Instead of apples, try using pears or even cranberries for a different twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute with your favorite gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these muffins without gluten.
• Mix in chocolate chips: For an indulgent treat, add some dairy-free chocolate chips into the batter!

How to Make Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel

In a mixing bowl, combine all the streusel ingredients: flour, cold butter cubes, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until crumbly. This step is important because it creates that lovely texture on top of your muffins!

Step 2: Make the Muffin Batter

In another bowl, whisk together sour cream and pumpkin until smooth. Then add apple juice (or water), granulated sugar, light brown sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix well! This batter is where all those delicious flavors come together.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! This keeps your muffins light and fluffy.

Step 4: Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the fresh apple chunks into the batter. Using fresh apples adds moisture and bursts of sweetness to each bite!

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups

Preheat your oven while lining a muffin tin with paper liners or greasing it lightly. Spoon the muffin batter into each cup until about halfway full. Top each muffin with that irresistible streusel you prepared earlier.

Step 6: Bake

Bake your muffins at 350°F (175°C) for about 18 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell like pure heaven during this time—trust me!

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm with a pat of butter or on their own—they’re simply divine!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

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

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and sour cream to room temperature helps create a smoother batter that rises nicely in the oven.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir until just combined to keep your muffins light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, and nobody wants that!
• Substitute with fresh apples: Fresh apple chunks add moisture and natural sweetness, enhancing the flavor of your muffins. I recommend using Honeycrisp for their crisp texture.
• Customize your spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preferences! Adding a touch of nutmeg or ginger can give you an exciting twist.
• Let them cool slightly before serving: Allowing the muffins to cool for just a few minutes after baking lets the flavors settle and makes them easier to handle.

How to Serve Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

These scrumptious muffins make for a perfect breakfast or snack! Serve them warm with a cup of tea or coffee for an inviting start to your day.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle adds a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin flavor.
• Sprinkle of powdered sugar: Just a dusting can elevate the presentation and give your muffins a lovely finish.
• Chopped nuts: Adding chopped pecans or walnuts on top gives a delightful crunch and enhances the autumn vibe.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfait: A creamy yogurt parfait layered with granola and seasonal fruits complements the flavors of the muffins while adding creaminess and crunch.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad featuring apples, pears, and berries balances the richness of the muffins perfectly.
• Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with cinnamon and sliced bananas is a hearty side that pairs well with these muffins for a cozy breakfast.
• Herbal tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or peppermint tea makes for a delightful accompaniment, enhancing the relaxing atmosphere of enjoying these treats.

Enjoy baking and savoring your Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch, perfect for any cozy gathering or quiet morning at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• To keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat muffins in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave each muffin for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch that might help you as you bake!

Can I substitute ingredients in the Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch?

Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or swap out the apple juice with another liquid like orange juice or water. Just keep in mind that substitutions may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

How should I store my Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch?

Store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. If you’d like to keep them longer, freezing is a great option! Just remember to wrap them well.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

Feel free to add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or mix in chocolate chips for an extra treat. You could also experiment with different spices or sweeteners based on your taste preferences!

How long do these muffins take to bake?

These delicious muffins typically take about 18 minutes to bake, making them a quick and easy option for breakfast or dessert!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch as much as I do! With their warm flavors and delightful texture, they truly capture the essence of fall. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or saving some for later, I’m sure they’ll bring a smile to your face. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!