Save Tender muffin bites swirled with apple butter and coated in cinnamon sugar, reminiscent of churros: perfect for breakfast or snacking.
I first made these on a chilly autumn morning: the aroma of cinnamon sugar filled the kitchen and the whole family gathered before they had even cooled. Each bite tasted like a comforting treat and disappeared in minutes.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1½ cups (190 g)
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Baking soda: ½ tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
- Unsalted butter (melted and cooled): ⅓ cup (75 g)
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup (100 g), plus ½ cup (100 g) for coating
- Light brown sugar (packed): ¼ cup (55 g)
- Eggs (large, room temperature): 2
- Buttermilk (room temperature): ¾ cup (180 ml)
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Apple butter: ½ cup (120 g)
- Melted butter (for coating): ¼ cup (55 g)
- Ground cinnamon (for coating): 1½ tsp
Instructions
- Prep:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin or line with paper liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine:
- Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix just until combined: do not overmix.
- Fill Muffin Cups:
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of batter into each muffin cup: add ½ teaspoon of apple butter to the center, then top with another scant tablespoon of batter to cover.
- Bake:
- Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the tops spring back when gently pressed and a toothpick comes out clean (avoid the apple butter center when testing).
- Cool:
- Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Churro Coating:
- While still slightly warm, brush each muffin bite with melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly.
- Serve:
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save Whenever my kids see these coming out of the oven, there's excitement for a warm snack after playtime: the cinnamon aroma always brings smiles.
Required Tools
Mini muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, pastry brush, wire rack
Allergen Information
Recipe contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy. Always check each ingredient for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per muffin bite: Calories: 95, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 14 g, Protein: 1 g
Save Enjoy these soft, flavorful muffin bites with coffee or tea: they make delicious snacks and unforgettable breakfasts.
Recipe Questions
- → What does apple butter add to muffin bites?
Apple butter brings moistness, rich apple flavor, and subtle sweetness, creating a delicious fruity center.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they keep well for up to 2 days in an airtight container, though best enjoyed fresh for maximum softness.
- → Is there a substitute for apple butter?
Pumpkin butter may be used instead for a seasonal variation with a different flavor profile.
- → How do I get the churro coating to stick?
Brush warm muffin bites with melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture to ensure even coverage.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they’re vegetarian-friendly, containing eggs and dairy but no meat or gelatin-based ingredients.
- → Can I make these without buttermilk?
Use milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar as a substitute to mimic the tang and texture of buttermilk.