Description

Apple Rose Muffins are stunning little treats that look like delicate roses in bloom, but they’re surprisingly easy to make. Thinly sliced apples are softened, arranged like petals, and nestled into a light muffin batter. They’re perfect for brunch, holidays, or when you want to impress with something beautiful yet simple.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium red apples (Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp for best color)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk (dairy or almond)
1/4 cup melted butter (or coconut oil)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prep the Apples: Core and thinly slice the apples into half-moons. Place slices in a bowl with water and lemon juice. Microwave 2–3 minutes or simmer until pliable, then drain and pat dry.
Make the Batter: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, whisk milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until just mixed.
Fill Muffin Cups: Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon batter in, filling about two-thirds of each cup.
Form the Roses: Arrange softened apple slices in overlapping layers around the edges of each cup, spiraling inward to create rose shapes.
Bake: Bake 25–30 minutes, until muffins are golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
Finish: Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.

Notes

Thin, softened apple slices are the key to shaping beautiful roses. Don’t worry if a slice breaks—just overlap it and keep going. For variety, try adding nutmeg, cardamom, or a drizzle of caramel before baking.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 muffin
Calories: 160
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 95mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 25mg