Sweet Tea Caramel Apple Cinnamon (Print Version)

Apple-cinnamon treats with caramel center and sweet tea notes, served on sticks for a delightful dessert experience.

# Components:

→ Muffin Batter

01 - 1 cup strong brewed sweet tea, cooled
02 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
03 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
08 - 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
09 - 2 large eggs
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Apple Filling

11 - 1 medium tart apple, peeled, cored, and diced
12 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
13 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
14 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

→ Caramel Center

15 - 12 soft caramel candies

→ Topping

16 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
17 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

→ To Serve

18 - 12 wooden popsicle sticks

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with 12 paper liners.
02 - Combine diced apple with lemon juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
04 - In a separate bowl, blend melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the cooled sweet tea.
05 - Add wet ingredients to dry and mix until just combined. Gently fold in the prepared apple mixture.
06 - Fill muffin liners halfway with batter. Place one caramel candy in the center of each, then cover with remaining batter.
07 - Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon together. Sprinkle evenly over tops.
08 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted away from the caramel center comes out clean.
09 - Cool muffins in the tin for 10 minutes. Insert a popsicle stick into the center of each muffin while still slightly warm.
10 - Transfer muffins to a wire rack and cool completely before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Unique combination of sweet tea and caramel
  • Perfect for sharing and on-the-go snacking
02 -
  • Contains wheat, eggs, milk, and possibly soy or nuts (check caramel label)
  • Serving warm creates extra-gooey caramel centers
03 -
  • Brush baked muffins with more sweet tea for added flavor
  • Try pears instead of apples for a unique twist