Pumpkin Apple Streusel Muffins

Spring is in the air and I’m happy to report that the temperatures are on the rise. We are finally beginning to see pavement and green grass through the mounds of melting snow. It seems the topic of conversation with family and friends frequently focuses on the hope for sunny skies and mild temperatures as we usher in the start of one of my favorite seasons.
Saturday is baking day so I am up bright and early chopping apples for the muffin recipe that I have selected. This batter produces a wonderfully moist muffin that is topped with a crunchy streusel mix. The combination of pumpkin, apples, and walnuts with a delicious cinnamon streusel topping make the muffins a favorite in our house.

Pumpkin Apple Streusel Muffins

2 1/2 cups flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup solid pack pumpkin
1/2 cup canola oil
2 cups apples, peeled and chopped
1 cup walnuts, chopped

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease or line a muffin pan with paper liners. In a large bowl, combine the first five ingredients and set aside. In medium bowl, combine eggs, pumpkin, and oil. Add liquid ingredients to dry ingredients. Stir just until moistened. Stir in apples and nuts. Spoon the batter into muffin cups; sprinkle streusel topping over batter.

For streusel topping:

2 tablespoon flour
1 teaspoon old fashioned oats
1/4 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
4 tbsp. butter

In small bowl, combine flour, sugar and cinnamon. Cut in butter until mixture is crumbly.

Bake muffins at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes or until done.