Warm, comforting, and bursting with apple-cinnamon goodness, these Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins are the perfect treat for crisp mornings or cozy afternoons. The soft, moist crumb holds juicy bites of apple, while the generous cinnamon streusel on top delivers a sweet crunch in every bite.

Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, packing lunchboxes, or craving a wholesome snack, these muffins deliver bakery-style flavor without any fuss. They’re easy enough to whip up on a weekday morning but special enough for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Muffin Recipe

These muffins strike the ultimate balance of comfort and convenience. You’ll love how they fill your kitchen with the scent of cinnamon and apples while baking. They’re not overly sweet, allowing the fruit and spice to shine, and they freeze beautifully if you’re batch-baking.

Plus, the cinnamon crumble topping is irresistible—it adds texture and a hint of indulgence without overpowering the muffin itself.

What Kind of Apples Work Best in Muffins?

Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are your best bet. They hold their shape well when baked and provide a nice contrast to the sweet, cakey muffin base. Feel free to use a mix if you want layers of apple flavor. Avoid softer varieties like Red Delicious, as they tend to go mushy.

Ingredients for the Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Every ingredient in these muffins has a purpose, enhancing both flavor and texture:

All-purpose flour – Gives structure to the muffins and balances moisture from the apples.
Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a light crumb.
Brown sugar – Provides depth and caramel-like richness.
Cinnamon – The star spice here, giving warmth and that classic muffin aroma.
Baking powder & baking soda – These leavening agents help the muffins rise perfectly.
Salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
Eggs – Bind the batter and add richness.
Buttermilk – Keeps the crumb soft and tender, with a subtle tang.
Unsalted butter – Adds buttery moisture.
Vanilla extract – Brings a sweet, aromatic base.
Chopped apples – The heart of the muffin, adding juicy bursts in every bite.
Streusel topping (brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, butter) – A crumbly, sweet crown that bakes into a crunchy layer.

How To Make the Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Chill while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently. Fold in the chopped apples, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fill and Top

Scoop batter into lined muffin tins, filling each about 3/4 full. Sprinkle a generous amount of the prepared streusel topping over each muffin.

Step 6: Bake

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

How to Serve and Store Apple Cinnamon Muffins

These muffins serve 12 and are best enjoyed warm, especially with a slather of butter or a drizzle of honey. They’re perfect with coffee or chai on chilly mornings.

To store, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the microwave or toaster oven before serving.

What to Serve With Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Hot Beverages

A cinnamon-spiced muffin begs for something warm to sip on. Try it with coffee, spiced chai, or hot apple cider.

Yogurt Parfait

Serve muffins with a side of Greek yogurt layered with granola and berries for a balanced breakfast.

Scrambled Eggs

Pair with creamy scrambled eggs to turn it into a heartier meal.

Autumn Salad

For a brunch spread, these muffins complement a crisp apple and walnut salad perfectly.

Creamy Oatmeal

Break a muffin into warm oatmeal and swirl it in with cinnamon for a cozy twist.

Cheese Plate

Add them to a brunch board with sharp cheddar or brie—sweet and savory magic!

Pumpkin Soup

Serve with a warm bowl of soup on a fall evening for a sweet-savory pairing.

Sliced Fruit

Sometimes, a few slices of pear or fresh apple are all you need alongside these muffins.

Want More Muffin Ideas?

If these apple cinnamon muffins hit the spot, you might also love these other fluffy and flavorful bakes:

Healthy Blueberry Oatmeal Muffins for a nutritious twist.
Nutella French Toast Casserole if you’re craving decadent breakfast vibes.
Whipped Shortbread Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth treat.
Magic Lemon Cobbler when you’re in the mood for zesty and bright.
Banana Bread Cookies for a soft, chewy delight.

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Let me know how your muffins turned out in the comments. Did you add nuts or go classic? Try a glaze on top? I love seeing the twists you bring to the table.

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