Apple Pumpkin Muffins with Oat Topping

 Craving a slice of autumn sunshine? These Apple Pumpkin Muffins with Oat Topping are your answer! They’re moist, perfectly spiced, and topped with a crunchy oat crumble that will make your taste buds sing. Imagine a warm, comforting treat, fresh from the oven, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aromas of fall. What are we waiting for? Let’s bake some magic!

Why You’ll Love These Apple Pumpkin Muffins

These aren’t just any muffins; they’re a symphony of fall flavors and textures that’ll make you want to bake them again and again. Here’s why you’ll adore them:

• Moist and Tender: Thanks to the pumpkin puree and applesauce, these muffins are incredibly moist and stay that way for days.
• Perfectly Spiced: Cinnamon and nutmeg create a warm, inviting flavor that screams autumn.
• Crunchy Oat Topping: The oat topping adds a delightful textural contrast to the soft muffins.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for even beginner bakers.
• Freezer-Friendly: Bake a batch and freeze them for a quick and easy breakfast or snack.
• Aromatic Delight: The aroma that fills your kitchen while these bake is simply heavenly.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with pumpkin and apple, these muffins offer a touch of goodness in every bite.

Prepare for a treat that is both simple to create and incredibly rewarding.

Ingredients Needed for Apple Pumpkin Muffins

Let’s gather everything we need to create these delightful Apple Pumpkin Muffins with Oat Topping. Quality ingredients are key, so choose wisely!

For the Muffins:

• 1 1/2 cups (192g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup (245g) pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup (122g) unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (150g) diced apple (peeled and cored)

For the Oat Topping:

• 1/2 cup (45g) rolled oats
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (32g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp (28g) melted butter
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality spices. You can even lightly toast them in a dry pan for a minute or two to unlock their full potential.

Looking for the perfect apples? Honeycrisp or Fuji varieties offer a great balance of sweetness and tartness.

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Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes baking these Apple Pumpkin Muffins with Oat Topping a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Muffin tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin is essential for baking these muffins evenly.
• Paper liners: These make for easy cleanup and prevent the muffins from sticking. Alternatively, grease the muffin tin thoroughly.

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• Large mixing bowl: For combining the dry ingredients.
• Small mixing bowl: For the wet ingredients and oat topping.
• Whisk: To blend the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately.
• Spatula: To gently fold in the diced apples and oat topping.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.
• Wire rack: For cooling the muffins after baking.

A good quality muffin tin ensures even heat distribution, which is crucial for perfectly baked muffins.

Recipe Details

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings: 12 muffins
• Difficulty: Easy

Feel free to double the recipe if you’re baking for a crowd!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Apple Pumpkin Muffins

Follow these detailed instructions to create the most delicious Apple Pumpkin Muffins with Oat Topping. Let’s get baking!

Step 1: Get Ready

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly to prevent sticking. This ensures even baking and easy removal.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp salt. Whisking ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix 1 cup pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, 1 large egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until well combined. The applesauce adds moisture and natural sweetness.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins.

Step 5: Fold in Apples

Gently fold in 1 cup diced apple (peeled and cored). Distribute the apple evenly throughout the batter.

Step 6: Prepare Oat Topping

In a small bowl, prepare the oat topping by combining 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp melted butter, and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon until crumbly. Use your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients for the best texture.

Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups

Fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full with batter. Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over each muffin. Don’t overfill the cups, as the muffins will rise during baking.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.

Step 9: Cool

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy.

CHECK OUT: Lemon Blueberry Oat Muffins with Yogurt – A burst of citrusy sweetness to brighten your day.

Tips for Success

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Apple Pumpkin Muffins with Oat Topping turn out perfectly every time:

• Don’t overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, dense muffins. Mix until just combined.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Room temperature ingredients blend together more easily, creating a smoother batter.
• Measure accurately: Baking is a science, so accurate measurements are essential for success.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, the muffins are done.
• Cool completely: Allow the muffins to cool completely before storing to prevent them from becoming soggy.

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize your Apple Pumpkin Muffins with Oat Topping? Here are some ideas:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for a warmer, spicier flavor.
• Chocolate chips: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
• Nuts: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) and use a vegan butter alternative for the topping.

Experiment with different flavors and textures to create your own signature muffin recipe!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Apple Pumpkin Muffins

These Apple Pumpkin Muffins with Oat Topping are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions and pairings to elevate your experience:

• Warm with butter: Serve them warm with a pat of butter for a simple and comforting treat.
• Coffee or tea: Pair them with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
• Yogurt parfait: Crumble a muffin over a yogurt parfait with fresh fruit and granola for a more substantial breakfast.
• Apple cider: Enjoy them with a glass of warm apple cider for the ultimate fall experience.

These muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day!

Health Benefits

These Apple Pumpkin Muffins with Oat Topping offer some nutritional benefits:

• Pumpkin: Rich in vitamins A and C, and fiber.
• Apple: A good source of fiber and antioxidants.
• Oats: Provide fiber, which can help lower cholesterol and regulate blood sugar levels.
• Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg have anti-inflammatory properties.

While these muffins are a treat, they can be part of a balanced diet.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to store and reheat your Apple Pumpkin Muffins with Oat Topping:

• Storage: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the muffins in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze the muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before reheating.

To maintain the oat topping’s crunch, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices that will alter the flavor and texture of the muffins. Stick with plain pumpkin puree.

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, any firm, slightly tart apple will work well in this recipe. Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith are all good choices.

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Yes, these muffins can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. They also freeze well.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar by up to 1/4 cup without significantly affecting the texture of the muffins. You can also substitute with a sugar alternative.

My oat topping is not crumbly. What did I do wrong?

Make sure your butter is cold and cut into small pieces, then blend the ingredients with a fork or pastry blender until crumbly. If the butter is too soft, the topping will become clumpy and not have the desired texture.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general idea of the nutritional content per muffin:

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 7g
• Carbs: 35g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g

Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more fall-inspired baked goods? Check out these delightful recipes:

• Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats – A wholesome and convenient breakfast option.
• Carrot Cake Yogurt Muffins – A healthier twist on a classic dessert.
• Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal – A hearty and comforting breakfast bake.

Discover new flavors and expand your baking repertoire!

Conclusion

These Apple Pumpkin Muffins with Oat Topping are a perfect blend of fall flavors and textures, easy to make, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whip up a batch today and enjoy the comforting taste of autumn in every bite! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking! Let us know how it goes – comment below!  

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