Caramel Apple Chai Cinnamon Muffin (Print View)
Soft spiced apple muffins dipped in caramel, featuring warm chai flavors and cinnamon for autumn enjoyment.
# Components:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
06 - 1 teaspoon ground chai spice (or 1/2 teaspoon each ground cardamom and ground ginger)
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
→ Wet Ingredients
08 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
09 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
10 - 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
11 - 2 large eggs
12 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
13 - 1/2 cup whole milk
14 - 1 medium apple, peeled and finely diced (about 1 cup)
→ For Assembly
15 - 10 ounces soft caramels, unwrapped
16 - 2 tablespoons heavy cream
17 - 12 cake pop sticks or lollipop sticks
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
02 - Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, chai spice, and nutmeg in a medium bowl.
03 - In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
04 - Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
05 - Add dry ingredients to wet in two batches, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
06 - Gently fold in diced apple until evenly distributed.
07 - Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.
08 - Once muffins are fully cooled, remove liners and gently insert a stick into the center of each muffin halfway through.
09 - In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until smooth and melted.
10 - Dip each muffin top into melted caramel, letting excess drip off. Place upright on parchment paper to set.
11 - Allow caramel to set for at least 15 minutes before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Perfect for parties or fall gatherings
- Fun way to enjoy classic flavors with a twist
02 -
- Muffin pops are best enjoyed the same day but can be stored airtight for up to 2 days
- Let caramel set fully before serving to prevent sticky hands
03 -
- Microwave caramel in short intervals to prevent burning
- Inserting sticks after muffins are fully cooled helps keep them intact