Apple Pie Cupcakes Recipe

If you adore the comforting flavors of homemade apple pie but want something a little more fun and portable, you are going to fall in love with these Apple Pie Cupcakes. Imagine bite-sized cakes bursting with tender apple filling, warm cinnamon spice, and topped with creamy cinnamon frosting—it’s like having the best of apple pie and cupcakes combined into one irresistible treat. These cupcakes have that perfect balance of moist cake, sweet and tangy apple compote, and a frosting that brings a luxurious finish to every bite. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy family gathering or an afternoon pick-me-up, these Apple Pie Cupcakes will quickly become a go-to in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple with ingredients you likely have on hand, each contributing its own magic touch. From the fragrant cinnamon and tender apples to the creamy frosting and fluffy cake, every element elevates the final bake in taste, texture, or color.

• 4 small tart apples: Peeled, cored, and finely diced for the perfect apple compote texture.
• 30 g brown sugar: Adds rich molasses sweetness to the apple filling.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Helps thicken the apple compote, so it’s not too runny.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives warm spice to the apple filling.
• 50 g water: Used to cook down the apples gently.
• 185 g cake flour: Provides a tender crumb for the cupcake base.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Leavens the cake, making it light and airy.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Blends into the batter for subtle spice throughout.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the sweetness.
• 115 g unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture to the batter.
• 200 g granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb.
• 3 large eggs (room temperature): Binds ingredients together and adds structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• 150 g milk (dairy or non-dairy): Adds moisture and keeps the cupcakes soft.
• 60 g unsalted butter (softened): For the luscious frosting base.
• 125 g cream cheese (softened): Brings creamy tanginess to the frosting.
• 75 g powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice to the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Complements and rounds out the frosting flavors.

How to Make Apple Pie Cupcakes

Step 1: Make the Apple Filling

Start with the heart of your Apple Pie Cupcakes—the apple compote. In a small saucepan, mix the diced apples, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and water. Cover and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Then uncover and simmer, stirring frequently until the apples are soft and the liquid has thickened to a saucy consistency. If it dries out or starts sticking, just add a splash of water and cook off the excess. Once perfect, transfer the mixture to a bowl to cool completely. This sweet and spiced filling will be bursting with flavor inside your cupcakes.

Step 2: Prep for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with parchment cupcake liners. This step ensures the cupcakes bake evenly and release effortlessly after baking.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This dry mixture creates the flavorful, tender structure for your cupcakes.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a hand mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and beat until the mixture is fluffy and light. This aerated base helps make the cupcakes delightfully soft.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Finally, mix in vanilla extract to infuse the batter with lovely aroma and flavor.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Alternately

Sift half of the dry mixture into the wet ingredients and mix briefly on low speed just until combined. Pour in half of the milk and mix until smooth. Repeat with the remaining flour and milk, mixing until you have a smooth, well-blended batter without overmixing.

Step 7: Bake the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for roughly 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan briefly before transferring to a wire rack to cool fully.

Step 8: Prepare the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat softened butter until creamy, then add cream cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix on low until the frosting is smooth, thick, and just sweet enough to complement the spiced cupcake.

Step 9: Assemble the Apple Pie Cupcakes

Using a melon baller or knife, hollow out the center of each cooled cupcake about halfway down. Fill each cavity generously with the cooled apple compote. Spoon a little extra apple filling on top of the cupcake and smooth it out, leaving a small border free for frosting.

Step 10: Pipe the Frosting

Fit a piping bag with a small ribbon tip and pipe two crisscrossing lines over the apple topping. Switch to an open star tip and pipe a pretty border around the edges, giving each cupcake a beautiful finishing touch that looks just as amazing as it tastes.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cupcakes

Garnishes

These cupcakes are charming on their own, but if you want to dress them up, try sprinkling a little extra cinnamon on top or adding a small slice of fresh apple as a garnish. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a lovely snowy effect, perfect for a festive touch.

Side Dishes

Apple Pie Cupcakes pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a beverage pairing, consider warm spiced cider or your favorite cup of chai tea, complementing those cozy autumn flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these cupcakes on a rustic wooden board or a pretty cake stand to highlight their homey charm. Nestle them among fall leaves or cinnamon sticks for a gorgeous seasonal centerpiece at your next gathering. You could even place each cupcake in a tiny mason jar for an adorable, portable treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Apple Pie Cupcakes fresh by placing them in an airtight container and storing them in the fridge. This will keep the frosting creamy and the cupcakes moist for up to 3 days without sacrificing flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze these cupcakes either before or after frosting. For unfrosted cupcakes, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. For frosted cupcakes, flash freeze them uncovered on a baking sheet, then transfer to airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To enjoy these cupcakes warm, gently microwave a cupcake for about 15 seconds or let it come to room temperature before serving. Avoid microwaving too long or the frosting may soften too much. Warm cupcakes really bring out the comforting apple and cinnamon flavors.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for the filling?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work best for balance, you can experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples may require less added sugar.

Is it possible to make these vegan?

Yes, you can substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk and use vegan butter and egg replacers. Cream cheese frosting can be replaced with a vegan cream cheese alternative or a cinnamon-spiced vegan buttercream.

How do I prevent the apple filling from making the cupcakes soggy?

Cooking the apples until the liquid is mostly evaporated ensures the filling is thick and won’t leak excessively. Also, scooping out the cupcake centers before filling helps keep everything balanced.

Can these cupcakes be made gluten-free?

Definitely try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that can be substituted 1:1 for cake flour. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum for structure. The cupcakes may have a slightly different texture but remain delicious.

What piping tips are recommended for decorating?

Start with a small ribbon piping tip for the crisscross lines and switch to an open star tip for the border. These tips add beautiful textures and elevate the look to match the taste!

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about these Apple Pie Cupcakes that makes sharing them feel like giving a warm hug in dessert form. Baking these treats is both simple and rewarding, promising joy in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try making Apple Pie Cupcakes—you’ll find they are the perfect way to bring a little slice of homemade comfort to any occasion.

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