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.
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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
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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.
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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.
