Applesauce Muffins

I love fall! I love the crisp air and crunchy leaves, and the oodles of great recipes that use fall flavors.  Here is a recipe for Applesauce Muffins  adapted from Family Fun magazine.  They are quick, easy, yummy, and perfect for a fall morning.

INGREDIENTS:

6 tablespoons butter

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 eggs

2/3 cup brown sugar

1 1/2 cups chunky applesauce

Optional--For a more decadent muffin, top with streusel crumbs before baking:

1/2 cup flour
4 tablespoons softened butter
4 tablespoons sugar
1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons cinnamon 

1. Heat the oven to 375 degrees. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with baking cups and set aside.
2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter on high for about 30 seconds; set aside to cool slightly.
3. Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt into a large mixing bowl..
4. In a large bowl, beat together the eggs and brown sugar. Stir in the applesauce and melted butter until the mixture is smooth.
5. Pour the apple mixture over the flour mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until combined.
6. Fill the muffin cups about two-thirds full with batter. If topping with streusel, mix the ingredients in a small bowl until crumbly , then sprinkle a teaspoon or so onto each muffin.

7. Bake for 20 minutes or until light brown.