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Caramel Apple Buttermilk Muffins Recipe

4.4 from 92 reviews

Delight in these moist and flavorful Caramel Apple Buttermilk Muffins, combining the tartness of fresh apples with the richness of buttermilk and a luscious caramel swirl. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, these muffins offer a tender crumb and a golden-baked finish with a delightful caramel touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Fruit and Toppings

  • 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven and muffin tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices.
  3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  4. Make the batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender.
  5. Fold in the apples: Carefully fold the diced apples into the batter, distributing them evenly without breaking them down.
  6. Fill muffin cups and add caramel: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Spoon a small amount of caramel sauce on top of each muffin and gently swirl it into the batter with a toothpick or skewer for a marbled effect.
  7. Bake the muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool and serve: Remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji for the best texture and tartness.
  • Make sure not to overmix your batter to keep muffins light and fluffy.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • Rewarm muffins briefly in a microwave or oven to enjoy the caramel softened again.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Keywords: Caramel apple muffins, buttermilk muffins, fall recipes, apple dessert, breakfast muffins, caramel swirl muffins