Apple Pie Cupcakes are a delightful fusion of classic flavors that elevate the traditional apple pie experience into a fun, handheld treat. I remember the first time I stumbled upon this recipe—I was looking for something to impress at a family gathering, and these little wonders stole the show. Whether it’s a cozy family brunch, a festive autumn gathering, or simply a Tuesday treat, these cupcakes are bound to add a spark of joy to any occasion. The combination of tender cake, spiced apple filling, and creamy frosting is nothing short of magical.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes Apple Pie Cupcakes truly special is their versatility and the joy they bring to both baking and tasting. Not only are these treats a crowd-pleaser, but they also require minimal effort and ingredients. Perfect for a quick weekday dessert or a festive holiday party, you’ll find that they cater to all occasions.

"These Apple Pie Cupcakes were a hit at our last family reunion! Everyone raved about the flavors, and I’ve already been asked to make them again."

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Ready to make some Apple Pie Cupcakes? The process is as delightful as the end result. You’ll start by creating a sweet apple filling that shines through, followed by whipping up a moist cake. Finally, add a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting that ties it all together. Yes, it’s as tasty as it sounds!

What you’ll need

For this recipe, here’s a convenient list of ingredients you’ll need:

Apple Filling:
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- 4 small tart apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced)
- 30 g brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 50 g water
Cupcakes:
- 185 g cake flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 115 g unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 150 g milk (dairy or non-dairy)
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 60 g unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 125 g cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 75 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Note: You can substitute tart apples with Granny Smith for more tang, or use almond milk for a dairy-free version.

Step-by-Step Directions

Now you’re ready to create these lovely cupcakes! Follow these simple instructions for delightful results:

Prepare the apple filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, and water. Cook over medium heat until the apples soften, and the filling thickens. Set aside to cool.
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners.
Make the cupcake batter: In a bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk until well combined.
Bake the cupcakes: Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Drop in a tablespoon of the cooled apple filling into the center of each cupcake. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cupcake comes out clean.
Prepare the frosting: In a bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Frost the cupcakes: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. Decorate each cupcake with a generous dollop of cinnamon cream cheese frosting.

Best Way to Serve

Presentation can elevate any dessert, and these Apple Pie Cupcakes are no exception. For a cozy vibe, serve them on a rustic wooden platter with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. Pair with a dollop of whipped cream, and maybe even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience. They also pair beautifully with warm cider or coffee, making them perfect for autumn gatherings or chilly evenings.

Keeping Apple Pie Cupcakes Fresh Longer

To ensure your Apple Pie Cupcakes stay fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week, or freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Pro Chef Tips

Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, crisp apples that are slightly tart—this balance enhances the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother batter and frosting.
Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can result in dense cupcakes.

Creative twists

Once you nail the basics, feel free to get creative! Consider adding a crumble topping made of oats and brown sugar for some crunch. You can also try swapping the cream cheese frosting for a caramel frosting for a delightful contrast. For a healthier twist, opt for whole wheat flour and coconut sugar instead.

Your questions answered

How long does preparation take?
Preparation and baking together typically take about an hour in total.
Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with almond flour for gluten-free options, adjusting the liquid as needed.
How should I store leftover cupcakes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

With these Apple Pie Cupcakes, you’re set to impress at any gathering or enjoy a cozy treat at home. Happy baking!

Apple Pie Cupcakes

Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delightful fusion of classic apple pie flavors transformed into fun, handheld cupcakes with spiced apple filling and creamy frosting.

Ingredients

Scale

Apple Filling:
4 small tart apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced)
30 g brown sugar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
50 g water
Cupcakes:
185 g cake flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
115 g unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
200 g granulated sugar
3 large eggs (room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
150 g milk (dairy or non-dairy)
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:
60 g unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
125 g cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
75 g powdered sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the apple filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, and water. Cook over medium heat until the apples soften and the filling thickens. Set aside to cool.
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners.
Make the cupcake batter: In a bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk until well combined.
Bake the cupcakes: Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Drop in a tablespoon of the cooled apple filling into the center of each cupcake. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cupcake comes out clean.
Prepare the frosting: In a bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Frost the cupcakes: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. Decorate each cupcake with a generous dollop of cinnamon cream cheese frosting.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use almond milk instead of regular milk.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cupcake
Calories: 300
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: apple pie, cupcakes, dessert, autumn, baking