Air Fryer Caramel Apple Muffins — If you love apples and caramel, you’re going to love these Air Fryer Caramel Apple Muffins!
They are the perfect autumn breakfast or snack. Plus, they’re easy to make – all you need is a few simple ingredients. So go ahead and give them a try! You’ll be glad you did.
We all know that the best recipes are the ones that are easy to follow and don’t require a lot of ingredients. That’s why I’m excited to share this Air Fryer Caramel Apple Muffins recipe with you. It takes a few minutes to prep, and the results are delicious! Plus, you can customize it depending on your preferences. So what are you waiting for? Try these muffins today!
What Are Apple Muffins
Autumn is in the air, and that means it’s time to start baking all of your favorite autumn treats! One of our favorites is these delicious caramel apple muffins. They are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, and they’re sure to get you in the mood for fall. Keep reading for the recipe!
Why Cook Apple Muffins In The Air Fryer
Muffins are a classic breakfast food, and they can be made in many ways. But have you ever tried cooking them in the air fryer? If not, you’re missing out! Air fryers are great for cooking muffins because they produce a crispy crust while maintaining a soft center. Plus, they’re easy to use, and cleanup is a breeze.
So if you’re looking for an easy way to make delicious muffins, try the air fryer!
Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Caramel Apple Muffins
Are you an apple lover? If so, you’ll love these Air Fryer Caramel Apple Muffins. These muffins are easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients. Plus, they’re perfect for autumn. So, if you’re looking for a delicious and festive fall recipe, look no further than these air fryer caramel apple muffins!
Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.
- All-Purpose Flour: Make sure you sift the flour for the best texture for these muffins. You can also prepare these muffins gluten-free by using gluten-free all-purpose flour.
- Applesauce: Use unsweetened applesauce.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter.
- Baking Powder: Helps your muffin rise.
- Granulated Sugar: You can also use a sugar substitute.
- Eggs: Use large, room-temperature eggs
- Apples: Use your favorite apples, peel and dice them.
- Seasonings/Spices: Lemon Juice, Ground Cinnamon, Salt, and Vanilla Extract.
How To Cook Caramel Apple Muffins In The Air Fryer
Cooking Caramel Apple Muffins in the air fryer is a delightful way to enjoy a classic fall flavor combination with the convenience and efficiency of modern cooking technology. These muffins combine the sweet, comforting tastes of caramel and apple, resulting in a treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack. Here’s how to make them:
In a large bowl, combine the diced (peeled) apples with the lemon juice, and toss to coat. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, sugar, baking powder, and seasonings, and mix well. And in another bowl, add the wet ingredients, the eggs, apple sauce, butter, and vanilla extract.
Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix well. Fold in the apples. Line your muffin tin with paper muffin liners, or spray them with cooking spray. Fill the muffin tin, about 2/3 the way complete.
Sprinkle the streusel topping on top, then set the muffin tin into the air fryer basket, set the temperature to 320 degrees F, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes using the air fryer setting.
Recipe Variations
Transforming classic apple muffins into delightful variations is easy with an air fryer. Here are some creative twists on air fryer apple muffins that will tantalize your taste buds and add an exciting flair to your baking routine:
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle the top of each muffin with a mix of cinnamon and granulated sugar. This adds a sweet, crunchy crust that complements the soft, moist interior of the muffins.
- Nutty Apple Muffins: Fold in a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the muffin batter before cooking. The nuts add a pleasant texture and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with apples.
- Apple Pie Muffins: Incorporate a teaspoon of apple pie spice into the batter to bring the classic flavors of apple pie into muffin form. Top with a small dollop of apple pie filling before baking for an extra burst of flavor.
- Streusel Topped Muffins: Create a simple streusel topping by mixing together flour, brown sugar, and butter until crumbly, then sprinkle over the muffins before air frying. This gives a delightful sweet and crumbly texture that makes the muffins irresistibly good.
- Salted Caramel Apple Muffins: Drizzle a bit of salted caramel sauce over the top of each muffin before and after baking. The salted caramel adds a rich, decadent flavor that takes these muffins to the next level.
- Cheese Crumble Apple Muffins: Mix shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the streusel topping for a savory twist. The cheese adds a surprising element of flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the apples.
- Blueberry Apple Muffins: Add a half cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a colorful, flavorful addition. The blueberries add a slight tartness and moisture that enhance the overall taste.
- Chocolate Chip Apple Muffins: Stir in a half cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolatey version of apple muffins. Chocolate and apple make for a surprisingly delightful combination.
Each of these variations on air fryer apple muffins offers a unique way to enjoy the classic treat, whether you’re in the mood for something nutty, fruity, or even chocolatey. Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect muffin recipe!
Pro Tips
Creating the perfect batch of air fryer apple muffins requires a blend of the right techniques and tips. Here are some professional insights to help you achieve deliciously moist and flavorful muffins every time:
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firmer apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala for baking. These varieties provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness and hold up well under heat without becoming too mushy.
- Uniform Apple Pieces: When dicing your apples for the muffin batter, aim for uniform size pieces. This ensures even distribution within the batter and consistent baking.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix the batter just until the dry ingredients are moistened. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins because it develops the gluten too much.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like with traditional baking, preheating your air fryer ensures that your muffins start cooking at the optimal temperature. This helps them rise properly and cook evenly.
- Use Silicone or Paper Muffin Cups: Air fryer-friendly silicone muffin cups or paper liners work best for baking muffins in the air fryer. They make cleanup easier and help prevent the muffins from sticking.
- Don’t Crowd the Air Fryer Basket: Place only as many muffin cups in the air fryer basket as can fit without touching. Air needs to circulate freely around each muffin cup to cook them evenly.
- Check for Doneness Early: Air fryers can cook a bit quicker than traditional ovens. Start checking your muffins for doneness a few minutes before the recipe’s suggested cooking time.
- Let Them Cool Before Removing: Allow the muffins to cool in their cups or liners for a few minutes after cooking. This resting period makes them easier to remove and helps set the crumb.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Depending on the sweetness of your apples and personal preference, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe. Start with less, as you can always drizzle honey or apply a glaze after baking.
- Experiment with Add-Ins and Toppings: Feel free to customize your muffins with different add-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips. A simple glaze or streusel topping can also add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Following these pro tips will help you master the art of making apple muffins in your air fryer, resulting in a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or any time you crave something sweet and homemade.
Faq’s
Can I use any type of apple for these muffins? Yes, you can use any type of apple, but some varieties work better for baking. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for their tartness and firm texture, which holds up well under heat. Other good options include Honeycrisp, Gala, and Fuji for a sweeter muffin.
Do I need to peel the apples? It’s a matter of personal preference. Peeling the apples will give the muffins a more uniform texture, but leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and nutrients. Just make sure to wash the apples thoroughly if you decide to keep the skins on.
How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the muffin liners? To prevent sticking, you can lightly spray the inside of the muffin liners with cooking spray. Alternatively, use silicone muffin cups, which are naturally non-stick and reusable.
Can I make these muffins gluten-free? Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a 1:1 baking blend designed to work as a direct replacement for wheat flour.
How can I tell when the muffins are done? The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. They should also be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly touched.
Can I make these muffins vegan? Yes, to make these muffins vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 15 minutes) and use a plant-based milk and butter substitute.
Is it possible to overmix the batter? Yes, overmixing the batter can lead to tough muffins. Mix just until the dry and wet ingredients are combined. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy.
How long will these muffins keep? Air fryer apple muffins will keep for up to 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container or up to 5 days if refrigerated. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins? Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even a handful of raisins or dried cranberries make excellent additions. Stir them into the batter just before scooping into the muffin cups.
How do I reheat leftover muffins? To reheat, place muffins in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps keep the muffins moist and restores some of the original texture.
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Air Fryer Caramel Apple Muffins
Description
Ingredients
Apple Cinnamon Muffins:
- 1 cup apples, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened apple sauce
- 1/2 cup butter, unsalted and melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Streusel Topping
- 1/4 cup butter, unsalted and melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup pecans, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced (peeled) apples with the lemon juice, and toss to coat. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, sugar, baking powder, and seasonings, and mix well. And in another bowl, add the wet ingredients, the eggs, apple sauce, butter, and vanilla extract.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient and mix well. Fold in the apples. Line your muffin tin with paper muffin liners, or spray them with cooking spray. Fill the muffin tin, about 2/3 the way full.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping on top, and then set the muffin tin into the air fryer basket, set the temperature to 320 degrees F, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, using the air fryer setting.
Equipment
- Muffin Tin
- Muffin Liners
Nutrition
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Suzanne Boos
I had to cook them an extra few minutes. They are delicious. The topping is crunchy. I added raisins and they were great.