Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch are my go-to recipe when I want to fill my kitchen with cozy aromas and enjoy a sweet bite. The combination of pumpkin and apples creates a soft muffin that feels warm and comforting—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, they whip up in no time, making them an excellent choice for any occasion.

What makes this recipe extra special is its small batch nature. You can enjoy fresh muffins without worrying about leftovers taking over your kitchen. Each bite is bursting with flavor, thanks to the fresh apple chunks and warm spices, while the buttery streusel topping adds a delightful crunch. Trust me; once you try these muffins, they’ll become a cherished fall favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have warm muffins ready in under half an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these muffins! The sweet apple and pumpkin flavors are sure to please everyone.
• Small Batch Convenience: Perfect for a small gathering or just to satisfy your cravings without too many leftovers.
• Deliciously Cozy Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients brings the taste of fall right into your home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch! You might already have many of these in your pantry, which makes this recipe even easier.

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 (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

The beauty of these muffins is their versatility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Try Different Apples: Experiment with different varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for varying sweetness.
• Substitute Yogurt: Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

How to Make Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

Step 1: Prepare Your Streusel

Start by mixing together the flour, cold butter cubes, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Use your fingers to combine everything until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial because it gives that lovely crunchy topping we all adore!

Step 2: Mix Your Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the sour cream, pumpkin, apple juice (or orange juice), granulated sugar, light brown sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Mixing wet ingredients first ensures everything blends nicely without lumps.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisking these ingredients together ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices throughout the batter.

Step 4: Create Your Muffin Batter

Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our muffins to be fluffy! Then fold in those fresh apple cubes—this is where that delicious fruitiness comes from!

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups

Spoon your batter evenly into greased muffin cups. Top each muffin with a generous sprinkle of your prepared streusel. This will create that beautiful topping as they bake!

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The aroma will be irresistible—trust me!

Enjoy your freshly baked Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch warm from the oven with a cup of coffee or tea! They’re sure to bring comfort and joy to your day.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your muffins turn out perfect every time!

• Use cold butter for the streusel: This helps create a crumbly texture that stays on top of your muffins rather than melting into them, giving you that lovely crunch.

• Measure your flour correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents overly dense muffins caused by using too much flour.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins, while gentle mixing ensures they stay soft and fluffy.

• Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your muffins a couple of minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

• Let them cool slightly before serving: Allowing the muffins to rest for about 5 minutes after baking enhances their flavor and texture, making them even more enjoyable.

How to Serve Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch

These apple pumpkin streusel muffins are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience and impress your friends and family.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and makes the muffins look extra inviting.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor that complements the muffins beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits such as pears, grapes, and citrus offers a refreshing contrast to the warm muffins.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy side that balances the sweetness of your muffins while adding protein.
• Herbal tea or coffee: Serve these muffins with a cup of soothing herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee—both pair wonderfully with the warm spices in your treats.
• Cream cheese spread: A light smear of cream cheese adds richness that pairs perfectly with the flavors of apple and pumpkin, enhancing every bite.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch will be an absolute hit at any gathering or cozy breakfast at home! Enjoy every delicious morsel!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a small batch and enjoy them throughout the week. With their delightful flavors and comforting textures, you’ll want to keep these muffins on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; just make sure they’re well-wrapped.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• For best results, reheat muffins in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds if you’re short on time, but the oven will give you a better texture.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious muffins? Here are some common queries!

Can I use different types of apples in the Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples add a wonderful sweetness and crunch, feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for different flavor profiles.

How long will the Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch stay fresh?

When stored properly, these muffins can last up to 2 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. Just remember to keep them in an airtight container!

Can I substitute pumpkin puree with anything else?

Yes! If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can substitute it with mashed sweet potato or even applesauce for a slightly different flavor while maintaining moisture.

Are these muffins suitable for breakfast?

Definitely! These Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins make a delightful breakfast option packed with flavor. Pair them with your favorite beverage for a cozy morning treat.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins Small Batch as much as I do! They capture the essence of fall with every bite, bringing warmth and comfort into your kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, they are sure to brighten your day. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delightful recipe!