Norwegian Apple Muffins with Cinnamon and Almond Topping
Norsk Apple Muffins Recipe – A Simple, Moist, and Flavorful Treat
The Norsk Apple Muffins are inspired by a classic Norwegian apple cake traditionally enjoyed during afternoon coffee. These muffins are wonderfully moist, packed with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or serving them as a snack for the family, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Recipe Overview
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Category: Quick Breads
- Servings: Makes 12 muffins
- Rating: 5 stars (13 reviews)
Ingredients for Norsk Apple Muffins
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Baking powder | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Butter (softened) | 1/3 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Lemon peel (grated) | Rind of 1 lemon |
| Apple (peeled and chopped) | 1 medium |
| Sugar (for topping) | 1/4 cup |
| Sliced almonds (for topping) | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information per Muffin
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 196.6 kcal |
| Fat | 7.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 48.8 mg |
| Sodium | 190.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 30.9 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 18.1 g |
| Protein | 3.2 g |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Norsk Apple Muffins
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Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the muffins will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown finish. -
-
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This mixture will provide the structure for the muffins and infuse them with aromatic spice. -
Cream the Sugar and Butter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and softened butter. Using a hand mixer, beat them together at medium speed for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and creamy. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to incorporate all the ingredients. -
Add the Eggs and Lemon Peel:
Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Once the eggs are fully incorporated, stir in the grated lemon peel, which will add a zesty and fragrant note to the muffins. -
Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Slowly incorporate the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients. You can either fold the flour mixture in with a spatula or continue using the hand mixer at a low speed. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overwork the batter as this can make the muffins dense. -
Fold in the Apples:
Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter. The apples add moisture and a delightful fruity texture to the muffins. Make sure the apple pieces are evenly distributed without breaking them down too much. -
Prepare the Muffin Pan:
Grease a 12-cup muffin pan or line it with paper muffin liners. Spoon the muffin batter into each cup, filling them about 2/3 full. This will allow space for the muffins to rise beautifully during baking. -
Top the Muffins:
Sprinkle a little sugar and sliced almonds on top of each muffin. The sugar will caramelize, creating a lightly crunchy top, while the almonds add a nutty texture and visual appeal. -
Bake the Muffins:
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the muffins are lightly browned on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Cool and Serve:
Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These muffins are best served warm, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
Tips for Perfect Norsk Apple Muffins
- Use Crisp Apples: For the best flavor and texture, choose a firm apple variety such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their slight tartness balances the sweetness of the muffin.
- Customize the Spice: If you’re a fan of extra spice, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon to create a more complex flavor profile.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to add chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or dried fruit (raisins, cranberries) into the batter for a variation on the traditional recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Norsk Apple Muffins are an ideal combination of simplicity and flavor. The moistness of the muffins comes from the apples, while the butter and sugar create a rich, tender crumb. The added lemon peel brightens the flavor, making each bite feel fresh and vibrant. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy afternoon snack or baking for a special occasion, these muffins will impress everyone at the table.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a little slice of Norway in every bite!
Let me know if you’d like further modifications to the recipe or additional tips to make these muffins even more delicious!
