Save Moist, cinnamon-spiced muffin cups filled with caramelized apples and finished with a decadent caramel drizzle. These treats capture the essence of a classic apple fritter in an easy, handheld form.
I first made these caramel apple fritter muffin cups for a fall gathering, and they quickly became a crowd favorite. Friends loved how each bite delivered gooey caramel and spiced apple just like a bakery fritter.
Ingredients
- Apples: 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced, plus 1 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon to caramelize
- Muffin Batter: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled), 1/2 cup whole milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Caramel Drizzle: 1/2 cup soft caramel candies (about 12), unwrapped, and 2 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare Muffin Tin:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.
- Caramelize Apples:
- Melt 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring, until tender and caramelized. Let cool slightly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 tsp cinnamon.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until blended.
- Combine Batter:
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir gently until nearly combined.
- Add Apples:
- Fold in caramelized apples and juices.
- Fill Muffin Cups:
- Divide batter among cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake:
- Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes in pan, then transfer to rack.
- Make Caramel Drizzle:
- In microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel candies and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth (1–1.5 minutes).
- Finish and Serve:
- Drizzle warm caramel over cooled muffins before serving.
Save Our family makes these muffin cups every autumn, and they are always a hit with kids and adults alike. It's a sweet tradition we look forward to during apple season.
Recipe Variations
Swap apples for pears, or add 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch. Try using chai spice instead of cinnamon for a flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these muffins with a cup of coffee, spiced chai, or as a sweet treat in lunchboxes. They also pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition Info
Each serving contains 250 calories, 10 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein.
Save Make these caramel apple fritter muffin cups part of your seasonal baking and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors all year long. The easy recipe guarantees bakery-worthy results every time.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of apples work best?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp offer balanced sweetness and tartness, holding their shape when caramelized.
- → Can nuts be added?
Yes, fold in toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch and enhanced flavor.
- → How do I prevent dry muffins?
Do not overmix the batter. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a moist crumb.
- → Is the caramel drizzle essential?
The caramel adds decadence but can be omitted or swapped with a powdered sugar glaze.
- → Can these be made ahead?
Yes, they can be baked in advance and stored, but drizzle caramel just before serving.
- → Are there dairy-free alternatives?
Use plant-based milk and butter, and dairy-free caramel for suitable muffins.