Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall, then these Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are for you! They’re not just muffins; they’re a warm hug on a chilly morning or a sweet addition to your afternoon tea. With pumpkin puree and fresh apple chunks, these delightful muffins bring together all the comforting flavors of the season. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where you want something special without too much fuss.

What I love most about this recipe is how easily it can be doubled if you find yourself with extra friends or family around. Just imagine the joy of sharing these warm, spiced muffins with loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: Ready in just about 28 minutes, these muffins are perfect for those on-the-go mornings.
• Perfectly portioned: This small batch recipe makes just four muffins, so there’s no need to worry about leftovers!
• Deliciously comforting flavors: The combination of apple and pumpkin makes for a warm embrace in every bite, perfect for fall.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweetness and texture of these muffins.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare the batter ahead of time and bake whenever you’re ready!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these muffins is simple because the ingredients are wholesome and easy to find. Get ready to gather some cozy fall flavors!

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 (optional; reserved from below)

For the Muffin Batter

• 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 mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Swap the fruit: Use pears or cranberries instead of apples for a different flavor profile.
• Try different spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Start by mixing together your streusel topping. In a bowl, combine flour, butter cubes, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Use your fingers or a fork to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles crumbs. This step adds that irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft muffin underneath.

Step 2: Mix the Muffin Batter

In another bowl, whisk together sour cream, pumpkin puree, apple juice (or orange juice), granulated sugar, light brown sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mixing wet ingredients thoroughly ensures they blend seamlessly into your dry mix later. The sour cream adds moisture while keeping your muffins fluffy!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In yet another bowl (I promise it’s worth it!), whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout your batter so each muffin rises beautifully.

Step 4: Fold Everything Together

Gently fold your dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Then add in those fresh apple cubes. This is where you’ll see those lovely bursts of fruitiness in every bite.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups & Add Streusel

Scoop the batter evenly into muffin cups lined with paper liners or greased well. Don’t forget to sprinkle that delicious streusel topping generously over each muffin before sliding them into the oven!

Step 6: Bake & Enjoy!

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly! Let them cool slightly before enjoying these Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins warm from the oven.

These little gems are sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

Baking small batch muffins is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your muffins turn out perfectly every time!

• Use cold butter for the streusel – Starting with cold butter helps create that crumbly texture that makes the streusel so delicious. It prevents the butter from melting into the flour too quickly, resulting in a lovely topping.
• Let ingredients come to room temperature – Allowing ingredients like sour cream and egg yolks to warm up a bit helps them combine more smoothly with the other ingredients. This will lead to a better rise and fluffier muffins.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Gently folding in the dry ingredients ensures that your muffins remain light and airy. Overmixing can develop gluten, which may result in denser muffins.
• Check for doneness early – Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your muffins a couple of minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• Cool on a wire rack – Transferring your muffins to a wire rack after baking helps maintain their texture by allowing air circulation. This prevents them from becoming soggy on the bottom.

How to Serve Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

These scrumptious muffins are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat! Here are some ways to present them beautifully and enhance your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance, making your muffins look even more inviting.
• Cinnamon stick garnish – Placing a cinnamon stick next to each muffin not only looks decorative but also hints at the delightful spices within.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfaits – Pair your muffins with creamy yogurt layered with fresh fruits and granola. This creates a balanced meal with textures and flavors that complement each other beautifully.
• Herbal tea – A warm cup of herbal tea enhances the cozy flavors of pumpkin and apple, making it an ideal companion for these muffins during cooler months.
• Fruit salad – A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and acidity that balances out the sweetness of your muffins. Choose seasonal fruits for added flavor!
• Nut butter spread – Serve with almond or cashew butter on the side for dipping! This addition brings healthy fats and protein to your snack or breakfast, making it more filling.

Enjoy baking these Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins, and let their delightful aroma fill your kitchen as they bake!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time, enjoy them fresh, and savor them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow muffins to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply unwrap and place in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious muffins.

Can I make Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a blend that works well for baking.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins?

Feel free to reduce the sugar by a couple of tablespoons if you prefer less sweetness or add more diced apples for natural sweetness.

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Pears or cranberries would also make delightful additions to these muffins. Just remember to adjust the moisture levels accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you find joy in baking these Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins! They’re not only easy to make but also filled with cozy flavors that celebrate fall. Whether you enjoy them as a delightful breakfast treat or as a sweet snack, I’m confident they will bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!