Caramel Apple Muffins with Walnuts & Drizzle
Introduction
These Caramel Apple Muffins are the essence of autumn baking—soft, moist, and packed with chunks of apple and crunchy walnuts. Finished with a luscious caramel drizzle, they’re perfect for cozy mornings, festive gatherings, or as a sweet snack with coffee.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Moist & flavorful: Apples and yogurt keep the crumb tender.
Nutty crunch: Walnuts add texture and balance the sweetness.
Caramel finish: A drizzle that makes them bakery‑worthy.
Seasonal charm: Ideal for fall and holiday baking.
Ingredients
2 cups all‑purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
2 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup plain yogurt (or sour cream)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
¾ cup chopped walnuts
½ cup caramel sauce (store‑bought or homemade)
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12‑cup muffin tin with paper liners.
Step 2: Dry Mix
Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl.
Step 3: Wet Mix
In another bowl, beat eggs, sugar, oil, yogurt, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
Step 5: Add Apples & Walnuts
Fold in diced apples and walnuts.
Step 6: Bake
Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake 20–25 minutes, or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 7: Drizzle
Cool muffins slightly. Warm caramel sauce and drizzle generously over tops.
Tips & Tricks
Apple choice: Tart apples like Granny Smith balance sweetness.
Extra indulgence: Add a sprinkle of sea salt over caramel drizzle.
Storage: Keep in airtight container up to 3 days; freeze without drizzle for longer storage.
Make mini muffins: Adjust bake time to 12–15 minutes.
Variations
Caramel Pecan Muffins: Swap walnuts for pecans.
Apple Cinnamon Streusel: Add a crumb topping before baking.
Salted Caramel Apple Muffins: Use salted caramel for a sweet‑savory twist.
Chocolate Apple Muffins: Stir in mini chocolate chips.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with extra caramel drizzle.
Pair with spiced chai or hot apple cider.
Add a dollop of whipped cream for dessert.
Pack in lunchboxes for a seasonal treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I use applesauce instead of diced apples?
Yes, but muffins will be softer and less chunky.
Q: Can I make these dairy‑free?
Yes, use non‑dairy yogurt and plant‑based caramel.
Q: Do I need to peel the apples?
Optional—peeling gives a smoother texture, but skins add color and fiber.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Yield: 12 muffins
Final Thoughts
These Caramel Apple Muffins with Walnuts & Drizzle are moist, nutty, and decadently sweet—a true autumn delight that’s easy to bake and impossible to resist.