Save A delightful twist on classic muffins: tender apple-cinnamon muffins infused with sweet tea, filled with gooey caramel, and served on sticks for a fun, portable treat.
I first made these for a picnic, and everyone was charmed by their fun presentation and irresistible caramel center. They're always a hit at gatherings, bringing a nostalgic Southern flair with every bite.
Ingredients
- Muffin Batter: 1 cup (240 ml) strong brewed sweet tea, cooled, 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 1/3 cup (75 g) unsalted butter, melted, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Apple Filling: 1 medium tart apple (Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Caramel Center: 12 soft caramel candies (store-bought or homemade)
- Topping: 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- To Serve: 12 wooden popsicle sticks
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Tools:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line muffin tin with 12 paper liners.
- Toss Apple Filling:
- In a bowl, combine diced apple with lemon juice, brown sugar, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 tsp cinnamon in a large bowl.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, stir melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Blend in cooled sweet tea.
- Make Muffin Batter:
- Combine wet and dry mixtures until just incorporated. Gently fold in apple mixture.
- Assemble Muffins:
- Spoon half of batter into liners. Place caramel candy in center of each. Cover with remaining batter.
- Top Muffins:
- Mix 2 tbsp sugar with 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Sprinkle over muffin tops.
- Bake Pops:
- Bake 18 to 20 minutes. Test with toothpick (avoid caramel center).
- Insert Sticks:
- Let muffins cool 10 minutes. Insert wooden stick in center while warm.
- Cool & Serve:
- Transfer to rack to cool completely before serving.
Save These muffin pops became a family favorite on cozy Sunday mornings, especially when paired with a tall glass of iced sweet tea. Kids love helping with the sticks, turning ordinary baking into a playful tradition.
Required Tools
Muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk, wooden spoon or spatula, popsicle sticks, cooling rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, milk. Caramel candies may include soy or nuts; check ingredient list for safety.
Nutritional Information
Per pop: 195 calories, 6 g fat, 35 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein
Save Serve these at gatherings for an instant smile. Their fun format and luscious caramel center make each bite memorable.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute apples with other fruits?
Yes, pears are a great alternative and will yield a similar texture and flavor profile in the muffin pops.
- → How do I get a gooey caramel center?
Serve the pops warm after baking or reheat briefly; this ensures the caramel stays soft and molten inside.
- → What type of sweet tea works best?
Strongly brewed, unsweetened or lightly sweetened black tea brings robust flavor without overpowering the batter.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, use vegetarian-friendly caramel candies and ensure all other ingredients meet dietary preferences.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, muffin pops store well in an airtight container for 2–3 days. Reheat to refresh the caramel center if desired.
- → Does cinnamon sugar add much flavor?
Sprinkling cinnamon sugar on top adds a delightful crunch and a hint of warm spice to each bite.