Save Soft cinnamon roll-inspired muffins packed with juicy apples and topped with gooey caramel—perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat.
I made these muffins for a weekend brunch and found the caramel drizzle made each bite irresistible. They've quickly become a family favorite whenever we crave something cozy and sweet.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Baking powder: 2 tsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Unsalted butter, softened: 1/2 cup (115 g)
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g)
- Light brown sugar, packed: 1/4 cup (55 g)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Buttermilk: 3/4 cup (180 ml)
- Peeled and diced apples (e.g. Granny Smith): 1 1/2 cups (180 g)
- Light brown sugar, packed (for filling): 1/3 cup (70 g)
- Ground cinnamon (for filling): 2 tsp
- Unsalted butter, melted (for filling): 2 tbsp (28 g)
- Caramel sauce: 1/2 cup (120 ml), plus extra for drizzling
Instructions
- Prep:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease well.
- Dry Ingredients:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
- Mix Batter:
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
- Add Apples:
- Gently fold in diced apples.
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling.
- Layer Batter and Filling:
- Spoon half the muffin batter into the prepared muffin cups. Sprinkle a generous pinch of cinnamon sugar filling over each, then drizzle with a little melted butter and caramel sauce.
- Top and Bake:
- Top with the remaining batter. Sprinkle more cinnamon sugar on top if desired. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce before serving.
Save My daughter loves helping sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling, and these muffins never last long when I make them for our family breakfast. The warm aroma draws everyone to the table.
Required Tools
Muffin tin, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, small saucepan (for homemade caramel)
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk, Eggs, Wheat (Gluten) Might contain: Tree nuts if desired. Verify caramel sauce and other ingredients if allergies exist.
Nutritional Information
Calories per muffin: ~280. Fat: 10 g. Carbohydrates: 44 g. Protein: 3 g.
Save Warm, gooey, and full of apple flavor, these muffins brighten any morning. Enjoy them fresh or with your favorite cup of coffee!
Recipe Questions
- → Which apples are best to use?
Tart varieties like Granny Smith hold their shape and provide a balanced sweetness when baked.
- → Can I make homemade caramel for topping?
Yes, melt sugar in a saucepan, then add butter and cream for a rich caramel sauce.
- → How do I keep muffins moist?
Buttermilk and gentle mixing prevent dryness, while diced apples add natural juiciness.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
They keep well for up to two days stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- → Are nuts a good addition?
Yes, chopped toasted pecans offer extra flavor and a satisfying crunch when added to the batter.
- → What tools are recommended?
A muffin tin, mixing bowls, and an electric mixer make preparation easier and ensure even mixing.