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As the chill of autumn settles in and the days grow shorter, many of us find ourselves reaching for comfort food that warms both the body and soul. Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts, providing not just nourishment but also a sense of nostalgia and warmth. It brings back memories of family gatherings, cozy evenings by the fireplace, and the delightful aromas wafting through the kitchen. One such delightful creation is the Warm & Cozy Apple Cinnamon Toast Cups, a treat that perfectly captures the essence of comfort food during the colder months.

Apple Cinnamon Toast Cups

Warm up your chilly autumn days with these delightful Warm & Cozy Apple Cinnamon Toast Cups. This easy recipe combines the sweet and tart flavors of fresh apples with aromatic cinnamon, all nestled in crispy toasted bread. Perfect for breakfast or a festive gathering, each cup is a heartwarming indulgence that evokes nostalgia and comfort. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious treat that will bring joy to every table.

Ingredients
  

4 slices of thick bread (such as brioche or challah)

1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)

1/4 cup brown sugar, packed tightly

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional but recommended for added warmth)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for extra crunch)

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

A pinch of salt

Non-stick cooking spray or butter, for greasing the muffin tin

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin by greasing it with non-stick cooking spray or a thin layer of butter.

    Prepare the Bread: Flatten each slice of bread to about 1/4 inch thick using a rolling pin. With a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut the bread into circles that are slightly larger than the muffin cups.

      Create the Cups: Carefully press each bread circle into a muffin cup, forming a cup shape. Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake the bread for approximately 10 minutes, or until it's lightly golden and slightly crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

        Prepare the Apple Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), melted butter, chopped nuts (if you choose to add them), fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together well until the apples are fully coated in the mixture.

          Fill the Toast Cups: Generously spoon the apple filling into each pre-baked bread cup, packing them well for a delightful burst of flavor.

            Bake Again: Place the muffin tin back in the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You'll know they’re ready when the apples have softened and the edges of the toast are beautifully golden brown.

              Cool & Serve: Allow the Apple Cinnamon Toast Cups to cool for a few minutes in the muffin tin before gently removing them. Serve warm, optionally drizzled with extra maple syrup or topped with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

                Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 12

                  - Presentation Tips: Arrange the Toast Cups on a charming platter and sprinkle a few extra chopped nuts on top for garnish. A dusting of powdered sugar can add a lovely finishing touch!