Apple Walnut Streusel Muffins with Golden Oat Crumble

I’ve spent countless mornings perfecting these wholesome muffins that combine the warmth of autumn spices with crisp apple chunks and crunchy walnuts. These muffins capture the essence of a cozy breakfast while providing nutritious ingredients that keep you satisfied throughout the morning.

The Perfect Morning Muffin Story

Drawing inspiration from traditional streusel-topped coffee cakes and wholesome breakfast pastries, I’ve created these muffins to be both indulgent and nourishing. The combination of whole wheat flour and oats provides sustained energy, while the apples and walnuts add natural sweetness and healthy fats.

Ingredients

Muffin Base

• 1 cup (120g) whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup (45g) rolled oats
• 1 cup (120g) diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
• 1/4 cup (50g) coconut sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts
• 1 teaspoon (2g) ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) sea salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) plant-based milk
• 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water)

Oat Streusel Topping

• 1/4 cup (23g) rolled oats
• 2 tablespoons (15g) whole wheat flour
• 2 tablespoons (25g) coconut sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) coconut oil, cold
• 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons (15g) chopped walnuts

Detailed Instructions

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well with coconut oil.
3. Prepare the flax egg by mixing ground flaxseed with water and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Make the Streusel Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine oats, flour, coconut sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cut in cold coconut oil using your fingers until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Stir in chopped walnuts and set aside.

Prepare the Muffin Batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, coconut sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
2. Core and dice the apple into small, uniform pieces (about 1/4 inch).
3. In a separate bowl, combine melted coconut oil, plant-based milk, and the prepared flax egg.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.
5. Fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts gently.

Baking Process

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
2. Top each muffin with a generous amount of streusel topping.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Pro Tips for Perfect Muffins

• Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best results
• Don’t overmix the batter to ensure tender muffins
• Press the streusel topping gently into the batter so it adheres while baking

Nutritional Information

(Per muffin)

• Calories: 185
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 9g
• Fat: 11g
• Iron: 1mg
• Calcium: 25mg

Time Requirements

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Cooling Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: 2-3 days in an airtight container
• Refrigerated: Up to 1 week
• Frozen: Up to 3 months (thaw overnight in refrigerator)

Serving Suggestions

I love serving these muffins:

• Warm with a pat of plant-based butter
• Alongside morning coffee or tea
• As part of a weekend brunch spread
• Crumbled over yogurt parfaits

Variations

• Fruit Swaps: Replace apples with pears or mixed berries
• Nut Options: Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts
• Spice Variations: Add nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom
• Protein Boost: Add 2 tablespoons hemp seeds to the batter

These Apple Walnut Streusel Muffins are more than just a breakfast treat – they’re a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and satisfying flavors. The whole wheat flour and oats provide fiber and sustained energy, while the apples add natural sweetness and moisture. The walnut streusel topping creates a delightful contrast in texture, making each bite a perfect combination of tender muffin and crispy crumble. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast on-the-go or a thoughtful addition to a weekend brunch, these muffins deliver both nutrition and satisfaction.

Remember to store any leftover muffins properly to maintain their freshness. These muffins also freeze exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prep or when you want to have a healthy snack on hand.