Caramel Apple Kringle Muffins

Tender apple muffins swirled with cinnamon and topped with a rich caramel glaze, inspired by classic Danish kringle flavors.

I first tasted kringle pastries on a chilly weekend and wanted to recreate those comforting flavors in muffin form. My family was delighted by the apple pieces tucked inside and the gooey caramel glaze.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: 2 cups (240 g)
• Baking powder: 2 tsp
• Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
• Salt: 1/2 tsp
• Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
• Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
• Unsalted butter, softened: 1/2 cup (115 g) for muffins, 1 tbsp melted for cinnamon swirl
• Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup (150 g)
• Large eggs: 2
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Sour cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
• Whole milk: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
• Peeled, diced apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): 1 1/2 cups (180 g)
• Light brown sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g) for cinnamon swirl
• Ground cinnamon for swirl: 1 tsp
• Soft caramels, unwrapped: 1/2 cup (100 g)
• Heavy cream: 2 tbsp
• Salt for glaze: Pinch

Instructions

Vacuum seal ingredients and leftovers to keep food fresh longer and simplify meal prep.

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Prepare muffin tin:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.

Mix dry ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Cream butter and sugar:

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.

Combine wet mixture:

Mix in sour cream and milk until just combined.

Combine wet and dry:

Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until almost incorporated. Fold in diced apples.

Prepare cinnamon swirl:

In a small bowl, combine all cinnamon swirl ingredients.

Layer and swirl batter:

Fill muffin cups halfway with batter. Add a small spoonful of cinnamon swirl to each, then top with remaining batter and another swirl of cinnamon mixture. Gently swirl with a toothpick.

Bake muffins:

Bake 20–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pan 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.

Glaze muffins:

Melt caramels with cream and pinch of salt in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Drizzle over cooled muffins.

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We brought these muffins to our weekend brunch and everyone, young and old, reached for seconds. It's now a requested treat for cozy family gatherings.

Required Tools

12-cup muffin tin, mixing bowls, hand or stand mixer, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, toothpick

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and milk/dairy. May include tree nuts if pecans are added on top. Always check caramel labels for possible allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 260 per muffin. Total Fat: 11 g. Carbohydrates: 38 g. Protein: 3 g.

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Perfect for baking small heart-shaped cakes, brownies, and quiches for intimate celebrations and sweet homemade desserts.

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Enjoy these muffins as a sweet breakfast or dessert treat. Their tender crumb and warm spices make them perfect with coffee or cider.

Common Questions

→ How do I get moist muffins?

Sour cream and melted butter help keep the texture soft, while diced apples add juicy moisture.

→ Can I use different apples?

Yes, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are suggested for flavor and texture, but any firm baking apple works well.

→ Is homemade caramel required?

Soft caramels melted with cream provide a quick glaze for topping, but homemade caramel can be used if preferred.

→ How do I create the cinnamon swirl?

Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter, then swirl into both muffin layers for noticeable flavor pockets.

→ Are pecans necessary?

No, they are optional for added crunch and nutty flavor. Simply sprinkle on before serving if desired.

→ How long do these muffins stay fresh?

For best texture, enjoy within two days. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.