Save A playful fusion of classic smores, caramel apples, and fluffy cinnamon pancake muffins, baked into delightful bite-sized treats perfect for breakfast or dessert.
The first time I made these muffin balls was for a chilly autumn brunch. The comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples mixed with gooey chocolate and marshmallows had everyone eager to grab a bite. These treats spark joyful memories of bonfires and orchard visits, making them a staple whenever I want to celebrate the flavors of fall in a fun way.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups (180 g)
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g)
- Baking powder: 2 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Egg: 1 large
- Milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Melted unsalted butter: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Tart apple: 1 medium (peeled and finely diced)
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp
- Apple cinnamon: 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Mini marshmallows: 1/2 cup (90 g)
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: 1/2 cup (90 g)
- Soft caramels: 6, cut into small pieces
- Graham cracker crumbs: 1/2 cup (50 g), plus 1/4 cup (30 g) for topping
- Melted butter for topping: 2 tbsp
- Mini chocolate chips (optional): 2 tbsp for topping
- Mini marshmallows (optional): 2 tbsp for topping
Instructions
- Prepare muffin tin:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line with mini muffin papers.
- Prepare apple mixture:
- In a small bowl, toss diced apple with brown sugar and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Set aside.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry:
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).
- Fold in extras:
- Fold in the apple mixture, mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, caramel pieces, and graham cracker crumbs.
- Fill muffin tin:
- Spoon batter evenly into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each well about 3/4 full.
- Bake:
- Bake for 1416 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
- Topping:
- While still warm, brush the tops with melted butter, then sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs, and, if desired, extra mini chocolate chips and mini marshmallows.
- Serve:
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save My kids love grabbing these muffin balls for breakfast as they head out the door, and I always pack a few for car rides to bring a bit of homemade comfort wherever we go.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, mini muffin tin (1824 wells), measuring cups and spoons, small brush for melted butter, and cooling rack.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, eggs, and soy. Always verify ingredient labels for possible traces of tree nuts or peanuts if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110 Protein: 2 g Carbohydrates: 18 g Total Fat: 4 g
Save These muffin balls are sure to impress, whether fresh from the oven or packed for a picnic. Warm, chewy, and bursting with flavor, they are a delicious twist on classic favorites.
Common Questions
- → How do I ensure muffin balls stay moist?
Be careful not to overmix the batter and don't overbake—remove when golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, store in an airtight container for two days or freeze for up to a month. Refresh briefly in the oven before serving.
- → What apple is best for this treat?
Tart apples such as Granny Smith add balance to the sweetness and provide a nice texture after baking.
- → Can I add more caramel for extra gooeyness?
Yes! Press extra caramel pieces into the center of each ball before baking for a gooier core.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this treat is vegetarian. Check that marshmallows and caramels use vegetarian-friendly ingredients if desired.
- → Is whole wheat flour a good substitute?
Substitute half the flour with whole wheat for added fiber without sacrificing the tender texture of the finished product.