These Apple Pie Cupcakes are a sweet treat, bringing the classic flavors of apple pie in a fun, cupcake form! They are moist, fluffy, and topped with a delicious cinnamon frosting.
Who knew apple pie could be so portable? I love munching on these for dessert or even breakfast. Just don’t blame me if you end up eating more than one! 🍏🧁
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the cupcakes. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free blend can work well!
Apples: Granny Smith apples provide a nice tart flavor. Feel free to swap in Honeycrisp or Fuji if you prefer sweeter apples. Just know they will change the taste a bit!
Sour Cream: This ingredient adds moisture and richness. If you don’t have sour cream, plain yogurt or buttermilk can be great substitutes. They keep the cupcakes tender!
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is key for that warm, cozy flavor. If you’re a fan of spices, you might also want to add a bit of allspice or cardamom for a unique twist.
Frosting Sugar: The recipe calls for powdered sugar which is essential for sweetness. If you need a healthier option, you can make a frosting using whipped coconut cream sweetened with honey or maple syrup.
How Do You Make the Cupcakes Fluffy?
Getting the perfect fluffiness in cupcakes is all about how you mix the ingredients. Here’s how to do it:
- Beat the butter and sugar well! This incorporates air, which helps the cupcakes rise.
- Add eggs one at a time. This allows each egg to fully blend in, maintaining that airy texture.
- Mix in your dry ingredients and wet ingredients alternately. This prevents overmixing. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, so just combine until you see no more dry flour!
Don’t forget to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
Apple Pie Cupcakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 cup peeled, chopped apples (preferably tart apples like Granny Smith)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
For Garnish:
- Small apple chunks or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 25 minutes of prep time and another 18-22 minutes for baking. Once you add the frosting and garnishes, be sure to let them cool completely before diving in. Overall, you’re looking at about an hour to have these cupcakes ready for your enjoyment!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grab a muffin tin and line it with cupcake liners so your delicious treats won’t stick.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This mix will give your cupcakes that delightful warm spice flavor.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is super important for making your cupcakes tender!
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Next, add the eggs one at a time, and mix well after each addition to ensure everything is fully incorporated. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine the Mixtures:
Now, it’s time to mix the dry ingredients with the creamed mixture. Do this by alternating between adding the dry ingredients and the sour cream. Start with the dry, then sour cream, and end with the dry. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!
6. Fold in Apples:
Gently fold in the chopped apples and brown sugar, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. You want all those lovely apple chunks in each cupcake!
7. Fill the Liners:
Carefully pour the batter into your lined cupcake tin, filling each liner about two-thirds full. This will give them room to rise without overflowing.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop your tin into the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. They’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
9. Make the Frosting:
While the cupcakes cool, make your frosting. Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar and cinnamon. Alternate with the milk or cream until you get your desired consistency. Mix in the vanilla extract for extra sweetness!
10. Frost the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are cool, generously pipe or spread the frosting over each one. Have fun with it—swirls, peaks, or smooth; it’s all good!
11. Final Touches:
Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top of the frosting, adding a luscious finish. Then, sprinkle a few small apple chunks or a dash of cinnamon sugar for that extra flair!
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve your apple pie cupcakes and enjoy the wonderful mix of apple pie flavors captured in these delightful treats. Perfect for gatherings, dessert, or even a cozy night in!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, you can also use Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind that the overall taste of the cupcakes might change slightly.
Can I Make the Cupcakes Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Just frost them on the day you plan to serve for the best taste and presentation!
How Should I Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them, but be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!
Can I Freeze the Cupcakes?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes! Place them in an airtight container or wrap individually in plastic wrap. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy!
