Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sourdough Apple Muffins are the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The natural tang of the sourdough starter enhances the sweetness of the apples and the warm spices like cinnamon, making each bite incredibly satisfying. These muffins are moist and tender on the inside, with a slight crispness on the outside, thanks to the gentle rise from the sourdough. The apples not only add sweetness but also a refreshing juiciness. They’re easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning at home or hosting a brunch.

Ingredients

For the Muffins:

1 cup sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 medium apples)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Streusel Topping (optional):

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Muffin Batter:

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease the tin with butter or cooking spray.
Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Add the sourdough starter and milk and mix until everything is well combined.
Add the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Add the apples and nuts: Gently fold in the diced apples and optional nuts.

Make the Streusel Topping (Optional):

Prepare the streusel topping: In a small bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and cold cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture forms small crumbs.

Bake the Muffins:

Fill the muffin tin: Divide the muffin batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. If you’re using the streusel topping, sprinkle it generously over the batter in each cup.
Bake: Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve:

Enjoy: Serve the muffins warm, or store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. These muffins are delicious on their own or with a dollop of butter or jam.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 muffins
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18-22 minutes

Variations

Add dried fruit: Add 1/2 cup of raisins, cranberries, or dried cherries for extra sweetness and chewiness.
Vegan Option: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water), dairy-free butter, and plant-based milk for a vegan version.
Cinnamon Swirl: Add a swirl of cinnamon sugar in the batter for an extra layer of cinnamon flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free.
Spiced Apple Muffins: Add ground ginger, cloves, or allspice to the batter for a more complex spiced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
Freezing: These muffins freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Reheating: To reheat, place the muffins in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use any type of apple you prefer. Granny Smith apples provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the muffin, but sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work just as well.

Can I make these muffins without sourdough starter?

Yes, if you don’t have sourdough starter, you can replace it with buttermilk or yogurt, which will add a similar tangy flavor to the muffins. Use 1 cup of buttermilk or yogurt to replace the sourdough starter.

Can I make the batter the night before?

Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply spoon the batter into the muffin tin and bake as directed.

Can I use frozen apples?

Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the batter to prevent the muffins from becoming soggy.

How do I prevent my muffins from being too dense?

To avoid dense muffins, be sure not to overmix the batter. Mix until the ingredients are just combined, and fold in the apples gently.

Can I add a glaze or icing to these muffins?

Yes, you can add a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk to give them a sweeter finish. Drizzle it over the top once the muffins have cooled slightly.

Can I bake these in mini muffin tins?

Yes, you can use a mini muffin tin and adjust the baking time. Mini muffins will take about 10-12 minutes to bake.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Conclusion

Sourdough Apple Muffins are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that brings together the tangy flavor of sourdough and the sweetness of fresh apples. With a hint of cinnamon and the option for a crumbly streusel topping, these muffins are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Whether you’re using up leftover sourdough starter or just looking for a comforting breakfast or snack, these muffins will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or as a make-ahead treat that can be enjoyed throughout the week!

Sourdough Apple Muffins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients