There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of freshly baked muffins wafting through the kitchen, and these Apple, Raisin, and Almond Muffins are no exception. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a snack for your family, or simply craving a sweet treat, these muffins hit all the right notes.
With a delicate, airy batter and a delicious topping of apples, raisins, and almonds, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The addition of cinnamon sugar takes them over the top, making them a must-bake recipe for any muffin lover.
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 40 minutes
- Baking: 25 minutes
- Total: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Muffin Batter:
- 1 large egg
- 70 grams of sugar
- 8 grams of vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 80 milliliters of milk (or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk)
- 70 milliliters of vegetable oil
- 150 grams of all-purpose flour
- 7 grams of baking powder
For the Topping:
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice
- Raisins (about 2-3 tablespoons, or to taste)
- Sliced almonds (about 2-3 tablespoons, or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- A pinch of ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Muffin Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a muffin pan by lightly greasing it with butter or oil, then dusting it with flour. This will ensure that your muffins come out easily and have a nice crust. If you prefer, you can also use paper muffin liners. For this recipe, a muffin pan with 12 cups works perfectly.
2. Making the Muffin Batter: In a large mixing bowl, crack the egg and whisk it until slightly frothy. Add the sugar, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt, then whisk the mixture until it becomes creamy and pale. This step helps to dissolve the sugar and incorporate air into the batter, giving your muffins a light texture.
Next, slowly pour in the milk and vegetable oil while continuing to whisk. The key here is to add these liquids gradually to maintain the airy consistency of the batter.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Gradually sift this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, folding it in gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until the flour is fully incorporated. Overmixing can result in dense muffins, and we want these to stay light and fluffy.
3. Preparing the Topping: As the batter rests for a moment, prepare the topping. Peel, core, and chop the apple into small, even pieces. Toss the chopped apple with a teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent browning and to add a hint of tartness.
In a small bowl, mix the apple pieces with raisins and sliced almonds. You can adjust the quantities based on your preference—some might like a more fruit-forward muffin, while others might prefer the crunch of more almonds. In a separate dish, combine the sugar and cinnamon.
4. Assembling the Muffins: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. This allows room for the topping and for the muffins to rise properly.
Spoon the apple, raisin, and almond mixture evenly over the tops of the muffins. Finally, sprinkle each muffin with the cinnamon sugar mixture. This topping will caramelize slightly as the muffins bake, adding a delightful crunch and sweetness.
5. Baking: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry them out.
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Optional Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, you can brush the tops of the cooled muffins with apricot jam. This not only adds a lovely sheen but also enhances the flavor profile with a hint of fruitiness.
Serving Suggestions:
These Apple, Raisin, and Almond Muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Serve them warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a more indulgent treat, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Success:
- Consistent Apple Size: Make sure to chop the apples into even pieces for consistent baking and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: To keep the muffins light and airy, avoid overmixing the batter once you’ve added the flour.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, ripe apples for the best flavor and texture. You can experiment with different varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for sweetness.
Nutritional Highlights:
- Apples: A great source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, apples contribute to the overall health benefits of these muffins.
- Raisins: Naturally sweet and rich in iron, raisins add a burst of energy and flavor.
- Almonds: Packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, almonds provide a satisfying crunch and nutritional boost.
Storage Instructions:
If you have any leftovers (though these muffins are usually devoured quickly!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the muffins for up to a month. Simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven before serving.
Why This Recipe Stands Out:
These muffins are more than just a simple bake—they’re a celebration of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet apples, chewy raisins, and crunchy almonds creates a harmonious blend that’s satisfying in every bite. Plus, the addition of cinnamon sugar gives them that extra special touch, making them perfect for any occasion, from casual breakfasts to special gatherings.
Conclusion:
Incorporate these Apple, Raisin, and Almond Muffins into your baking routine, and you’ll soon find them becoming a household favorite. With their delightful texture, rich flavor, and easy preparation, they’re the kind of recipe you’ll return to time and again. So why wait? Get your ingredients ready, and treat your loved ones to these irresistible muffins—they’re sure to be a hit!
Author :Â Marie-claude
