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Apple Pie Cupcakes

Who doesn’t love the cozy comfort of a homemade apple pie? Now, imagine enjoying that delightful flavor in a perfectly portioned cupcake! Apple Pie Cupcakes bring the heartwarming essence of fall into an easy-to-eat treat, perfect for any gathering. These small delights feature tender apple filling, a moist cake base, and a delicious cinnamon cream cheese frosting that will make your taste buds dance with joy!

Why Make This Recipe

Unforgettable Flavor: Each bite bursts with spiced apple goodness, capturing the essence of a traditional apple pie.
Perfectly Portion-Controlled: These cupcakes are an ideal way to satisfy your dessert cravings without the guilt of overindulging.
Easy to Share: They make an excellent treat for parties, picnics, or a cozy family dessert night.

If you’re looking for a creative twist on a classic dessert, this recipe is perfect because it combines the beloved taste of apple pie with the convenience of cupcakes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Apple Pie Cupcakes

Ingredients

To whip up a batch of these delectable Apple Pie Cupcakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the 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

For the 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)

For the 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

Directions

Apple Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the apples are tender and the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.
Cupcakes: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a cupcake tin with cupcake liners. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fill each cupcake liner halfway with the cupcake batter, then add a generous spoonful of the apple filling on top. Finish by covering the filling with more cupcake batter, filling each liner about 3/4 full.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Adjust the consistency with more milk or powdered sugar as necessary.
Assemble the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cinnamon cream cheese frosting. You may decorate with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a thin slice of apple for a charming touch.

Storage Tips for Apple Pie Cupcakes

To enjoy your delightful Apple Pie Cupcakes for longer, follow these storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: For extended freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Pie Cupcakes

These delightful cupcakes shine best when served thoughtfully. Here are some serving suggestions:

Accompaniment: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting touch.
Presentation: Arrange them on a cake stand and sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for an eye-catching display.
Flavor Boost: Serve with a warm caramel drizzle or a dusting of powdered sugar for added elegance.

Quick Tips to Make Apple Pie Cupcakes

Use Tart Apples: Opt for Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for that perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature to achieve the best texture for your cupcakes.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to ensure a light and fluffy cupcake.

Variations

Nutty Addition: Include chopped walnuts or pecans in the apple filling for some delightful crunch.
Spiced Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these cupcakes in advance?
A: Absolutely! These cupcakes can be baked and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen (unfrosted) for up to 3 months.

Q: What type of apples work best for these cupcakes?
A: Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape and provide a delicious counterbalance to the sweetness of the cake.

Q: How can I make the frosting vegan?
A: Substitute the cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives, such as vegan cream cheese and coconut oil for a delicious vegan frosting.

With the charm of a classic apple pie wrapped into a cupcake, these Apple Pie Cupcakes are sure to be a hit! Perfect for celebrations or a cozy dessert night at home, they bring warmth and happiness in every bite. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to indulge in this divine dessert!