Apple Cinnamon Crumble Muffins

Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy muffin, bursting with tender apple pieces, fragrant cinnamon, and crowned with a buttery oat crumble. These Apple Cinnamon Crumble Muffins are the epitome of autumnal bliss, perfect for cozy mornings or an indulgent afternoon treat. With a balance of wholesome ingredients and irresistible flavors, they’re a go-to recipe for anyone who loves the comforting aroma of baked apples wafting through their kitchen.
Yield: 18 muffins
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 20 minutes
Temperature: Start at 425°F (218°C), then reduce to 350°F (177°C)
Muffins 
  • 1 and 3/4 cups (219g) whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon (5 mL) baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon (5 mL) baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5 mL) ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) salt
  • 1/2 cup (125 mL) vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120g) yogurt 
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 
  • 3 large apples peeled, cored and finely chopped 
 
Crumb Topping
  • 2 Tbsp light or dark brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 Tbsp (15g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 Tbsp rolled oats 
 
  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). 
  2. Make the crumb topping: Mix the brown sugar, oats and cinnamon together in a medium bowl. Stir in the melted butter, and then gently mix using a fork. Keep the mixture as large crumbles.
  3. Make the muffins: Whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt together in a large bowl. Set aside.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, yogurt, milk and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 1 minute, then turn up to high speed until the mixture is combined and mostly creamy. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. 
  5. Add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix until no flour pockets remain. Fold in the diced apples gently. Careful not to overmix. 
  6. Spoon the batter evenly into each cup or liner, filling each all the way to the top. Spoon crumb topping on each.
  7. Bake for 5 minutes at 425°F, then, keeping the muffins in the oven, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C). Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The total time these muffins take in the oven is about 20 minutes. Allow the muffins to cool for 5 minutes in the muffin pan, then transfer to a wire rack to continue cooling.

Tips for Success 

Choose the Right Apples: Opt for tart and firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to balance the sweetness and maintain a pleasant texture.

Customize the Crumble: Add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch.

​Make Ahead: These muffins freeze beautifully. Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Every bite of these muffins delivers a perfect harmony of warm spices, tender apples, and a buttery crumble. They’re easy to make yet elegant enough to impress. Whether you’re serving them at brunch or packing them in lunchboxes, these muffins are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.