Save Tender biscuit-style muffins swirled with caramelized apples and infused with warming chai spices are a cozy and aromatic treat that's perfect for breakfast or dessert. These Chai Caramel Apple Biscuit Muffins combine classic fall flavors with a tender muffin texture that's sure to become a favorite around your table.
I first made these muffins on a crisp autumn morning, and my kitchen filled with the scents of cinnamon and caramel. The gooey caramel swirls and tender apples make every batch feel comforting and special, especially when shared with family over breakfast.
Ingredients
- Apples: 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp brown sugar
- Chai Spice Blend: 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1/4 tsp ground cardamom; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/8 tsp ground black pepper
- Muffin Batter: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, diced; 3/4 cup cold whole milk; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Caramel Sauce: 1/2 cup soft caramel candies (about 10 pieces), unwrapped; 2 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease.
- Caramelize apples:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add diced apples and brown sugar. Cook, stirring, until apples are soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Mix spices:
- In a small bowl, combine all chai spices. Set aside.
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and chai spice blend.
- Add butter:
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, and vanilla. Pour into dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Fold in apples:
- Fold in the cooled caramelized apples. Do not overmix.
- Fill muffin cups:
- Divide the batter evenly among muffin cups.
- Prepare caramel:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt caramels with heavy cream in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Swirl caramel:
- Drizzle melted caramel over each muffin and use a toothpick to swirl it into the batter.
- Bake:
- Bake 22-25 minutes, or until muffins are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Save This recipe is now a staple for weekend baking with my kids. Watching them swirl caramel into the batter always brings giggles and sticky fingers—those moments are what make these muffins truly special.
Required Tools
You'll need a 12-cup muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk, pastry cutter or fork, skillet, a microwave-safe bowl, and a toothpick or skewer for swirling caramel.
Allergen Information
This dessert contains dairy (butter, milk, cream), eggs, and gluten (wheat flour). Caramel candies may contain milk or soy. Please check labels to ensure safety for those with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each muffin has about 245 calories, 10 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein.
Save Serve these muffins warm alongside your favorite chai latte or black tea for an irresistible seasonal treat. The aroma and flavor will fill your kitchen with comfort and delight.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of apples work best?
Firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and offer a pleasant tartness in muffins.
- → Can I substitute the chai spice blend?
Yes, you can use pre-mixed chai spice or simply increase cinnamon and ginger for similar warmth.
- → How do I prevent overmixing the batter?
Stir gently until ingredients are just combined; lumps are okay for fluffy muffins.
- → Can these muffins be made ahead?
Absolutely! Store at room temperature for two days or refrigerate up to five. Reheat before serving for gooey caramel.
- → Are there alternative toppings?
Try sprinkling chopped nuts or cinnamon sugar on top before baking for added texture and flavor.
- → How do I know when the muffins are done?
Muffins are ready when golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.