Cozy sweaters, golden leaves, and the smell of cinnamon drifting from the oven—it can only mean one thing: it’s time for apple pumpkin muffins. This small-batch recipe is ideal when you just need a few perfectly moist, sweet, and warmly spiced treats without drowning in leftovers. Topped with a buttery, crunchy streusel topping and bursting with bits of fresh apple, these muffins are fall in muffin form.

Whether you’re baking for one, two, or a quiet weekend brunch, this recipe delivers comfort with just the right amount of effort. No fuss, no waste, just cozy bites of autumn.

Why You’ll Love These Apple Pumpkin Muffins

These muffins check all the right seasonal boxes: pumpkin, spice, tender apples, and a crumbly streusel topping. Plus, they’re designed as a small batch muffin recipe, making them perfect for busy weekdays, baking with kids, or treating yourself without going overboard. They’re easy, quick, and oh-so-satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Streusel Topping:

3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1½ tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed
1½ tbsp light brown sugar
2 tsp granulated sugar
Pinch of salt
¼ tsp ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
1½ tbsp diced apples (Honeycrisp preferred)

Muffins:

1½ tbsp full-fat sour cream (room temp)
5 tbsp canned pumpkin puree
1 tbsp apple juice, orange juice, or water
3 tbsp granulated sugar
2 tbsp light brown sugar
1 large egg yolk (room temp)
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ cup diced apple (Honeycrisp; reserve 1½ tbsp for streusel)
½ cup + 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
¼ tsp baking soda
⅛ tsp salt
¾ tsp pumpkin pie spice

How to Make Apple Pumpkin Muffins

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line 4 muffin cups.
Make the streusel: Combine flour, cold butter, sugars, salt, and spice with your fingers until crumbly. Stir in diced apples. Chill.
Whisk the wet ingredients: In a bowl, combine sour cream, pumpkin, juice, sugars, egg yolk, and vanilla. Stir until smooth. Fold in diced apple.
Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
Combine: Gently fold dry mix into wet. Do not overmix.
Fill muffin cups evenly with batter. Top each with a generous spoonful of streusel.
Bake at 425°F for 5 minutes, then reduce to 350°F and bake 11–13 more minutes. A toothpick should come out mostly clean.
Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Tips for Fall Muffin Success

Make sure your butter is cold for the perfect streusel crumble.
Use firm apples like Honeycrisp for a nice bite.
That high initial temp helps the muffins rise tall and fluffy.

Fall Recipes That Feel Like Home

The first time I made these, it was a chilly Sunday morning with nowhere to be and everything to savor. The house smelled like a bakery and those four little muffins were gone before the coffee cooled. That’s the beauty of fall recipes like this—they make the ordinary feel a little magical.

What to Serve with Apple Pumpkin Muffins

These muffins shine all on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a mug of hot tea, a frothy chai latte, or a bold cup of coffee. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple glaze for a dessert-worthy touch. They’re also great on a brunch board next to eggs, sausage links, or fresh fruit.

How to Store Small Batch Muffins

If you happen to have one or two leftover (unlikely, but possible!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy at room temp.

FAQs About Apple Pumpkin Muffins

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Double all ingredients for 8 muffins—just watch the baking time.

Can I skip the streusel topping?

You can, but that crunchy top adds so much flavor and texture—we say go for it.

Can I use applesauce instead of fresh apples?

It’s not recommended here. The diced apples give the muffins a fresh texture that applesauce can’t replicate.

Small Batch, Big Flavor

These apple pumpkin muffins prove that baking small doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With their tender crumb, cozy spice, and irresistible streusel topping, they’re the perfect way to indulge your autumn cravings without overdoing it. This is one of those fall recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again—whether it’s a solo baking moment or a cozy treat to share.

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