Apple Pie Cupcakes are a fun twist on a classic dessert! These sweet treats have soft, moist cake filled with warm apple pie goodness, topped with creamy frosting.
Who can resist a mini apple pie in cupcake form? I love serving them at family gatherings—everyone gets excited, and they vanish faster than I can bake them! 🍏🧁
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Choose tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance in flavor. If those aren’t available, Fuji and Honeycrisp work well too! And don’t forget—mixing different types of apples can add extra depth to the filling.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for precise control over saltiness. If you’re in a pinch, you could use margarine, but it might change the taste a bit. Also, if you need a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
Sour Cream: This adds moisture and richness. If you’re out, plain yogurt or buttermilk can be good alternatives. I personally like using Greek yogurt for a little extra tang and protein!
Frosting: If you want to lighten it up, try a whipped cream frosting instead. For vegan options, you can use coconut cream whipped up with powdered sugar and vanilla instead of butter for that creamy texture.
How Do You Get the Cupcakes Light and Fluffy?
A light and fluffy cupcake is all in the mixing and folding techniques. Here’s how to nail it:
- Beat softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can take 3-5 minutes—it’s key!
- Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
- When mixing in the dry ingredients, fold gently. Over-mixing can make the cupcakes tough. You want the batter mixed but still light.
Using sour cream keeps the cupcakes moist, so don’t skip it!
What’s the Best Way to Get a Gooey Center in Your Cupcakes?
For that gooey apple center, the trick lies in how you fill the cupcake liners:
- Fill the cupcake liners about 2/3 full with batter, then add a teaspoon of the apple filling right in the center.
- Don’t worry about covering the filling completely with batter; a bit of topping is fine!
This technique ensures that the filling stays gooey and delicious while the cupcake bakes.
These tips and ingredient choices will help you create fantastic Apple Pie Cupcakes that everyone will love. Happy baking!
Apple Pie Cupcakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 cup peeled and finely chopped apples (preferably tart apples like Granny Smith)
For the Apple Filling:
- 1 medium apple, peeled and diced into small cubes
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
For Garnish:
- Small apple pieces cooked with cinnamon and brown sugar (reserved from filling)
- Drizzle of caramel sauce
- Light dusting of cinnamon powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of baking time. After baking, you’ll want to allow some time for the cupcakes to cool and then for decorating. Overall, you should plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sauté until the apples are soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Cupcake Batter:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Alternately add the flour mixture and sour cream to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined, and gently fold in the finely chopped raw apples.
3. Fill the Cupcake Liners:
Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling them about 2/3 full. Add about a teaspoon of the prepared apple filling into the center of each cupcake batter for a gooey center. If needed, lightly cover the apple filling with a bit more batter.
4. Bake:
Bake the cupcakes for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out clean (the filling will be soft). Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Make the Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well each time. Add the vanilla extract and cinnamon (if using). Stir in the heavy cream or milk one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches your desired consistency for piping.
6. Decorate the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, pipe the frosting on top in a lovely swirl. Add a few pieces of the caramelized apple filling on each cupcake. Drizzle lightly with caramel sauce and finish with a light dusting of cinnamon powder.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Apple Pie Cupcakes are now ready to be served! These delightful treats are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness. Enjoy the tastes of fall in every bite!
This recipe captures the cozy flavors of apple pie wrapped in a delightful cupcake, perfect for any occasion. Happy baking! 🍏🧁
Can I Use Any Type of Apples for the Cupcakes?
While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness that balances the sweetness, you can also use Fuji, Honeycrisp, or any variety you enjoy! Mixing different apples can enhance the flavor even more.
Can I Prepare the Cupcakes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Just wait to frost them until you’re ready to serve to ensure they stay fresh.
How Should I Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure they are cool before sealing to avoid condensation!
Can I Freeze These Cupcakes?
Yes, you can freeze the baked and cooled cupcakes. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!