Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

Enjoy fall’s favorite flavors with this small batch of apple pumpkin streusel muffins! This simple pumpkin muffin recipe blends pumpkin, fresh apple chunks, and cozy spices inside a soft muffin that is finished with a buttery apple streusel. Perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack, these muffins are sure to impress at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With a quick prep time of just 10 minutes, these muffins are perfect for busy mornings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and fresh apples creates a warm and inviting taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Small Batch Convenience: This recipe yields just four muffins, making it ideal for small households or anyone wanting to enjoy a treat without leftovers.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have, such as using orange juice instead of apple juice.
• Perfectly Moist Texture: Thanks to the addition of sour cream and canned pumpkin, these muffins stay moist and tender.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before you begin. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Muffin tin
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows for easy mixing without spills.
• Muffin tin: The right size ensures even baking and perfect muffin shapes.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in ingredients gently without overmixing.

Ingredients

For the Streusel Topping

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1.5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1.5 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• pinch salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice)
• 1.5 tablespoons diced apples (reserved from below)

For the Muffins

• 1.5 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 1.5 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

How to Make Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your muffins bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Grease your muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine:
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1.5 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
1.5 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
pinch of salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Use a fork or your fingers to mix until crumbly. Stir in 1.5 tablespoons diced apples and set aside.

Step 4: Mix the Muffin Batter

In another bowl, whisk together:
1.5 tablespoons sour cream
5 tablespoons canned pumpkin
1 tablespoon apple juice
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
1 large egg yolk
0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix well until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
0.5 cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
0.25 teaspoon baking soda
pinch of salt
0.75 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring gently until just combined.

Step 6: Add Apples to Batter

Fold in:
0.5 cup fresh apple cubes

Be careful not to overmix; you want your muffins fluffy.

Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups and Top with Streusel

Spoon the batter into prepared muffin cups until about two-thirds full. Sprinkle the prepared streusel topping on each muffin generously.

Step 8: Bake Your Muffins

Bake in preheated oven for about 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch!

How to Serve Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

These delightful Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy breakfast at home or an autumn gathering with friends. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your muffin experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: A rich cup of coffee pairs beautifully with the spices in the muffins.
• Tea: Choose chai or cinnamon tea for a complementary flavor profile.
• Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a sweet treat by pairing your muffins with hot chocolate.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the muffins.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for texture and creaminess.
• Savory Quiche: Offer a slice of quiche alongside for a hearty brunch option.

For Dessert

• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top creates a warm, melty delight.
• Drizzle of Caramel Sauce: Enhance the flavors with a drizzle of caramel for added sweetness.

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How to Perfect Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

To ensure your Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter that rises well.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping to avoid dense muffins.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gentle mixing prevents tough muffins; stir just until combined.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Crispy Bacon: The saltiness complements the sweetness of the muffins wonderfully.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy eggs add protein and make for a balanced meal.
3. Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheeses that contrast the muffin’s sweetness for an interesting palate experience.
4. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal adds heartiness and is perfect for fall mornings.
5. Nut Butter Toasts: Spread almond or peanut butter on toast for added richness and flavor.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds provides brightness next to warm muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch can be delightful, but common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to avoid dry or overly moist muffins.
• Skipping the room temperature step – Ingredients like egg yolk and sour cream should be at room temperature for better mixing and texture. Take them out ahead of time.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to tough muffins. Mix until just combined for tender results.
• Ignoring oven preheating – A preheated oven ensures even baking. Don’t skip this step; let your oven heat up fully before placing the muffins inside.
• Using old spices – Fresh spices enhance flavor. Check your pantry and replace any outdated spices for the best taste.
• Not cooling properly – Allow muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat muffins for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat each muffin for 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop – Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch.

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Pears or cranberries can also work well, adding their unique flavors.

How do I make these muffins gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great alternative that provides similar creaminess and tang.

How do I make a larger batch of Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins?

Simply multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings you want, but remember to adjust baking times as needed.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch are perfect for enjoying fall flavors without making too many at once. Their cozy taste makes them suitable for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize them with nuts, different fruits, or other spices to suit your preferences!

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